A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hiroshima vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Attractions, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hiroshima and Koh Pha Ngan 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.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a park-filled, memorable, and meaningful city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a funky, beautiful, and backpacker-friendly party island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hiroshima and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Hiroshima and Koh Pha Ngan are both popular with visitors, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Pha Ngan is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also home to the Full Moon Parties. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Hiroshima different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hiroshima is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Hiroshima that are not to be missed. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hiroshima is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hiroshima makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Koh Pha Ngan is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a handful of resorts to choose from. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Koh Pha Ngan. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great party island for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hiroshima is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Hiroshima is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Hiroshima is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hiroshima. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Both Hiroshima and Koh Pha Ngan are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hiroshima is a nice destination for couples. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Pha Ngan. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hiroshima is well known for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Hiroshima. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Hiroshima is very walkable. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Hiroshima?

How long in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Hiroshima because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hiroshima, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Hiroshima 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 Koh Pha Ngan.

One day in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Hiroshima, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this meaningful city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party island of Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hiroshima is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the backpacker-friendly destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find nightlife and food around the backpacker-friendly party island of Koh Pha Ngan. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this party island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this party island has to offer.

A week in Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hiroshima is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hiroshima and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Hiroshima would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hiroshima than you might in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Which is Bigger, Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Hiroshima and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hiroshima has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Pha Ngan experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hiroshima as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors come to Hiroshima in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Hiroshima is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan in the summer. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hiroshima usually gets more rain in July than Koh Pha Ngan. Hiroshima gets 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Hiroshima are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Hiroshima is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hiroshima in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. In October, Hiroshima usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Hiroshima gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan is October and November.

Should I visit Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Hiroshima during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

The weather in Hiroshima can be very cold. In January, Hiroshima is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Hiroshima average around 4°C (40°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Hiroshima usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Koh Pha Ngan. Hiroshima gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Hiroshima or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hiroshima and Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Hiroshima is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the spring. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Hiroshima gets 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Hiroshima