A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. Nikko for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Hoi An or Nikko?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Hoi An and Nikko. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a quaint, peaceful, and beautiful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Nikko

Nikko is a rural, historic, and cultural town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hoi An and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Nikko?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hoi An. Although Hoi An and Nikko are both popular with visitors, Hoi An has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hoi An is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Nikko is known for its museums & sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Nikko and is known for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. It is also home to the Fukian Assembly Hall. Nikko is popular for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Hoi An different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hoi An or Nikko?

Nikko is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Nikko from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Hoi An offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

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

Hoi An 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 Hoi An have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

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 Hoi An or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Hoi An is adequate for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Hoi An doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

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 Hoi An or Nikko Better for Beaches?

Hoi An is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hoi An. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Hoi An or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the fantastic old town areas in both Hoi An and Nikko.

Hoi An has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

The old town of Nikko is one of the most recognized in 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.

Is Hoi An or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

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.

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Nikko?

Hoi An 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 Hoi An. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

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

Is Hoi An or Nikko Better for Families?

Both Hoi An and Nikko are very good family-friendly destinations.

Hoi An is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Hoi An or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is terrific for romance. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Hoi An frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Is Hoi An or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An 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 Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

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

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

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Hoi An, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

Is Hoi An or Nikko a more walkable city?

Hoi An is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Hoi An is a very easy town to get around on foot. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Hoi An or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nikko due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hoi An, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Hoi An. 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 Hoi An 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 Hoi An.

One day in Hoi An or Nikko?

In Hoi An, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Hoi An or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hoi An. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Nikko is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hoi An or Nikko?

Hoi An is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Hoi An. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hoi An or Nikko?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional destination of Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Vietnam, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best Cultural Tours in Japan, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hoi An and Nikko, we can see that Nikko is more expensive. And not only is Hoi An much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hoi An would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hoi An 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 Hoi An.

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

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Nikko?

Hoi An has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An 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 Hoi An or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Hoi An or Nikko in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hoi An is a little warmer than Nikko in the summer. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Hoi An, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during summer. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Nikko. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. Also, September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An.

Should I visit Hoi An or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Nikko. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

In the autumn, Hoi An is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hoi An in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Nikko averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Hoi An often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hoi An usually gets more rain in October than Nikko. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hoi An or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. In January, Hoi An is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 22°C (71°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite sunny in Nikko. Hoi An usually receives less sunshine than Nikko during winter. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Hoi An. In January, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Nikko. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Hoi An is February to July. The rainy season in Hoi An is September to January.

Should I visit Hoi An or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Hoi An during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Hoi An is much warmer than Nikko in the spring. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Hoi An. In the spring, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hoi An usually gets less rain in April than Nikko. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Hoi An