A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lanta vs. Hiroshima for Couples, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a tranquil, peaceful, and quiet island. Many visitors also come to Koh Lanta because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Lanta travel costs.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Hiroshima travel costs.

Koh Lanta and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Lanta. Although Koh Lanta and Hiroshima are popular destinations, Koh Lanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Lanta is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Hiroshima is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. Koh Lanta is famous for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park. It is also well known for Long Beach.

How is Koh Lanta different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hiroshima are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

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

Foodies will find both Koh Lanta and Hiroshima both to be great destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Lanta. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

Hiroshima has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Koh Lanta or Hiroshima has a better nightlife scene.

Koh Lanta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

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 Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

In Koh Lanta, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lanta is a great island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Lanta is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Koh Lanta is considered to be a world-class beach destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is a great island for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Lanta for the hiking trails. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Hiroshima is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Lanta or Hiroshima More Beautiful?

Koh Lanta is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Lanta because of it's amazing beauty. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.

Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Koh Lanta is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Koh Lanta is a very family-friendly destination. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

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 Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

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

Koh Lanta is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

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 Koh Lanta or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lanta and Hiroshima are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Lanta is a good island to visit for backpackers. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

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

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

Hiroshima is a great destination for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Hiroshima can get you to some places 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options 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.

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Koh Lanta?

How long in Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hiroshima than Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Lanta. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Hiroshima. 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 Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quiet destination of Koh Lanta. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. 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 Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful island of Koh Lanta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island 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 island has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the park-filled city of Hiroshima. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Lanta or Hiroshima?

Koh Lanta is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing 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 Koh Lanta and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. And not only is Koh Lanta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Lanta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima and Koh Lanta during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta 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.

In July, Koh Lanta is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Lanta. In the summer, Koh Lanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in July than Hiroshima. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

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

Koh Lanta is much warmer than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during autumn. Koh Lanta 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. Koh Lanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Hiroshima. Koh Lanta 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 the winter, Koh Lanta is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Lanta in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

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

Koh Lanta usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hiroshima. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Lanta or Hiroshima in the Spring?

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

In April, Koh Lanta is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 29°C (85°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during spring. Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta. In April, Koh Lanta usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Lanta is January to April. The rainy season in Koh Lanta is June to September.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Koh Lanta