A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Nikko for Couples, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Koh Chang or Nikko?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Nikko, 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.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a scenic, idyllic, and serene island. Many visitors also come to Koh Chang because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Nikko

Nikko is a tranquil, relaxing, and peaceful town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nikko travel costs.

Koh Chang and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Nikko?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nikko. Although Koh Chang and Nikko are both popular with visitors, Nikko has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nikko is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Koh Chang is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Nikko is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. It is also home to the Toshogu Shrine. Koh Chang is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Chang or Nikko?

Nikko is very popular for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options 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.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Nikko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Koh Chang is a island with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Koh Chang has a few options to choose from. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

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 Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Koh Chang is considered to be a world-class beach destination. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is very popular for its historic old town. However, Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Nikko has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Nikko?

Nikko is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Nikko. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko More Beautiful?

Koh Chang and Nikko both are comparable with their first-rate scenery and beauty.

Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

The famous beauty of Nikko is one of the main draws. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Nikko are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly destination. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Couples?

Koh Chang and Nikko are both first-rate to visit as a couple.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Nikko is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang and Nikko are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Koh Chang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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

Is Koh Chang 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, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nikko. 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 Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Koh Chang or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Nikko is very walkable. 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.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Chang or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Chang due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Koh Chang. 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 Nikko than Koh Chang 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 Nikko.

One day in Koh Chang or Nikko?

In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this scenic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This island 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.

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Koh Chang or Nikko?

Koh Chang is a fun place to experience. In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Koh Chang or Nikko?

You'll find food and nightlife around the idyllic destination of Koh Chang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nikko 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 Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nikko in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Chang is a little warmer than Nikko in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Koh Chang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko during summer. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Nikko. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Nikko. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Nikko in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Koh Chang is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Chang in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Nikko averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in October than Nikko. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nikko can be very cold during winter. In January, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 26°C (79°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite sunny in Nikko. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during winter. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Nikko. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Koh Chang during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nikko because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Koh Chang is much warmer than Nikko in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. In the spring, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Koh Chang gets 247 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nikko. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Koh Chang