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

Should you visit Dubai 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 Dubai and Nikko can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a modern, glamorous, and opulent 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Nikko

Nikko is a relaxing, peaceful, and natural town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Dubai and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dubai than Nikko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dubai is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Dubai is well known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Skiing?

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Nikko is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Dubai to take advantage of their winter sports. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Nikko is not a skiing destination.

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

Nikko is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Nikko has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dubai can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Nikko both to be superb destinations.

Dubai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nikko makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Dubai or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

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

Dubai is a world class party destination. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

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 Dubai or Nikko Better for Music?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Nikko is not a live music destination.

Dubai is known as a music capital around the world. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Nikko is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Resorts?

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

Dubai is a world class resort vacation destination. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Dubai. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai 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.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a great town for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. 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.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Nikko?

Dubai 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 Dubai. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

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

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubai. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

Nikko is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Dubai or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Nikko has plenty to offer. 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.

Dubai is a nice destination for couples. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Nikko Better for Students?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Nikko is not popular with students.

Dubai is a very popular city for students. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Nikko is not popular with students.

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

Nikko is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Nikko offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Dubai has a few public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Is Dubai or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. 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.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Dubai or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dubai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Dubai. 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 Nikko than Dubai 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 Nikko.

One day in Dubai or Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This 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.

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Dubai or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubai. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Dubai or Nikko?

Dubai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Nikko is a fun place to experience. Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, 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 Dubai and Nikko, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Nikko much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Nikko is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Nikko would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nikko 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 Dubai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dubai than you might in Nikko.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Nikko?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Dubai 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 Dubai or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Dubai or Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is a little warmer than Nikko. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Nikko averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Nikko. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Dubai is June to August.

Should I visit Dubai or Nikko in the Autumn?

Both Nikko and Dubai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, 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.

In October, Dubai is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Nikko. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. 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. Dubai is much warmer than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Nikko. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Nikko in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Nikko. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

In the spring, Dubai is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Nikko. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Dubai