A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Nikko for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Hiking

Should you visit Bali or Nikko?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Nikko can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a tropical, lush, and frequented island. Many visitors also come to Bali because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Bali travel costs.

Nikko

Nikko is a natural, rural, and historic town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty in Nikko as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Nikko travel costs.

Bali and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Nikko?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bali. Although Bali and Nikko are popular destinations, Bali has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bali is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and small town charm. Bali is more touristy than Nikko and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Bali different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nikko and Bali. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Nikko?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Nikko are among the most recognizable in the world. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bali or Nikko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Bali have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Bali is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Bali is a world class party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Resorts?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

Bali is a world class resort vacation destination. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Bali is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Beaches?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Bali is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Hiking?

You'll find superb hiking in both Bali and Nikko.

Bali is a popular spot for hiking. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nikko. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Nikko?

Bali is great for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Bali or Nikko More Beautiful?

Bali and Nikko are somewhat similar when it comes to the amazing scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Bali as well. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Bali or Nikko.

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nikko. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Couples?

Both Bali and Nikko are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Bali has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Nikko has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Nikko is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Is Bali or Nikko Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Nikko can get you to some places easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Bali or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Nikko is a very walkable town. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Bali?

How long in Bali or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Bali or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bali due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Nikko. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bali, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bali than Nikko. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bali that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Nikko if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bali.

One day in Bali or Nikko?

In Bali, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this tropical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Nikko is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Nikko?

Bali is a fun place to experience. In Bali, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Nikko?

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Nikko is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Nikko, we can see that Nikko is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Nikko would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nikko than you might in Bali.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bali Expensive? and Is Nikko Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bali or Nikko?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Nikko, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bali or Nikko?

Nikko has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Nikko in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Nikko. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bali is generally around the same temperature as Nikko. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Bali usually gets less rain in July than Nikko. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Nikko in the Autumn?

Both Nikko and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bali is much warmer than Nikko in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Nikko. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko and Bali during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Nikko because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nikko can be very cold. In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Nikko averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Bali often gets less sunshine than Nikko. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Nikko. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Nikko in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Nikko. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Bali