A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Kyoto for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hong Kong or Kyoto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Kyoto, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a compact, dense, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Kyoto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Kyoto. Hong Kong is bigger than Kyoto, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Hong Kong different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Kyoto?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kyoto are world-renowned. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

Is the Food Better in Hong Kong or Kyoto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Hong Kong have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Hong Kong know how to have a good time. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong is a great destination for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kyoto offers plenty to see. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Kyoto?

Hong Kong is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hong Kong make it a world-class shopping destination. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Families?

Hong Kong is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an extremely popular city to visit for families. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kyoto. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Hong Kong and Kyoto are both first-rate to visit as a couple.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Kyoto is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Kyoto is a great city to visit as a student. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hong Kong is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Hong Kong has a great public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Is Hong Kong or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Hong Kong and Kyoto are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Getting around Kyoto on foot is easy. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hong Kong and Kyoto. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in Kyoto. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Hong Kong 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 Kyoto.

One day in Hong Kong or Kyoto?

Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Hong Kong or Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hong Kong. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Kyoto?

Hong Kong is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Hong Kong or Kyoto?

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

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Kyoto?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Kyoto, 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.