A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Nikko for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bangkok or Nikko?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Nikko can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a high energy, cultural, and alluring capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Nikko

Nikko is a relaxing, peaceful, and natural town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Bangkok and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Nikko?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bangkok. Although Bangkok and Nikko are both popular with visitors, Bangkok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bangkok is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko is known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bangkok is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also home to The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Nikko is popular for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Bangkok different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Bangkok and Nikko have world-class landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bangkok that are not to be missed. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

The museums and tourist attractions in Nikko are world-renowned. 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.

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

Bangkok 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 Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

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 Bangkok or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

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

Bangkok is a world class party destination. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

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 Bangkok or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Nikko is revered around the world. 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.

Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Is Bangkok or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Nikko?

Bangkok is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Bangkok. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

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

Is Bangkok or Nikko Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Nikko are great to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nikko is very family-friendly. 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 Bangkok or Nikko Better for Couples?

Both Bangkok and Nikko are world-class destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bangkok is a great capital city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

Nikko is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Bangkok or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok 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 Bangkok. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

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

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

Nikko is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Nikko is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

While Bangkok offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Is Bangkok or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Nikko is very walkable. 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.

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Bangkok or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bangkok due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangkok 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 Bangkok.

One day in Bangkok or Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This capital city 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 with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Bangkok or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangkok. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Nikko?

Bangkok is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Nikko is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Bangkok has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Bangkok and Nikko, we can see that Nikko is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Nikko?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok 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 Bangkok or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Bangkok or Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko and Bangkok during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

Bangkok is a little warmer than Nikko in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In the summer, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets less rain in July than Nikko. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bangkok is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangkok in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Nikko averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during autumn. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Nikko. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Nikko. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Nikko in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nikko can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 27°C (80°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nikko. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the winter, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets less rain in January than Nikko. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Bangkok is much warmer than Nikko in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 31°C (87°F) in April, and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during spring. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In April, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Nikko. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Bangkok