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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

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 Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima. 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.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a educational, reflective, and somber town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hiroshima than Kanchanaburi. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. It is also well known for Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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

Kanchanaburi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

Is the Food Better in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hiroshima is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hiroshima has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanchanaburi. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Hiroshima has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Hiroshima is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Kanchanaburi to go shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Both Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima are nice family-friendly destinations.

Kanchanaburi is a family-friendly town. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

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.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima both nice destinations for a couple.

Kanchanaburi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Hiroshima is a good town for couples to visit. 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.

Is Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

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

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

Hiroshima is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Kanchanaburi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Is Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

For even more information, also check out Is Kanchanaburi Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima. In our opinion, Hiroshima has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hiroshima than Kanchanaburi. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Hiroshima than Kanchanaburi. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hiroshima than Kanchanaburi 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 Hiroshima.

One day in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Kanchanaburi. 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.

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.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the somber destination of Kanchanaburi. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the reflective town of Kanchanaburi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

Kanchanaburi is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima, 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 Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 29°C (84°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Kanchanaburi usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during summer. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the autumn, Kanchanaburi often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hiroshima. In the winter, Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kanchanaburi in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Kanchanaburi during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Kanchanaburi can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 32°C (89°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the spring, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in April than Hiroshima. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Kanchanaburi