A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Hiroshima for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Hiroshima 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a idyllic, serene, and laid back area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hiroshima

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

Khao Lak and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Khao Lak. Although Khao Lak and Hiroshima are both popular with visitors, Khao Lak has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Khao Lak is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Khao Lak is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. It is also home to Khao Sok National Park. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Khao Lak different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

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

Hiroshima is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Hiroshima has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Hiroshima has a few options to choose from. 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 Khao Lak or Hiroshima Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a great area for its luxury resorts. However, Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

In Khao Lak, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Hiroshima Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a great area for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Khao Lak is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Hiroshima Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is a great destination for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Khao Lak is a great area for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly destination. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Khao Lak or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Khao Lak or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is a great area for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Khao Lak is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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

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

Hiroshima is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Hiroshima is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Is Khao Lak or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a great destination for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Khao Lak and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Hiroshima. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the area of Khao Lak. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The city of Hiroshima offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the friendly destination of Khao Lak. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Hiroshima is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hiroshima, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

You'll find nightlife and food around the friendly area of Khao Lak. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this area makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer.

Hiroshima is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Khao Lak, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Khao Lak and Hiroshima, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 670 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Khao Lak or Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima and Khao Lak during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Hiroshima in the summer. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Hiroshima. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Khao Lak is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Khao Lak in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Hiroshima. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (80°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Hiroshima. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Hiroshima in the spring. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hiroshima. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Khao Lak