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

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Nikko?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Nikko can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a idyllic, small, and local island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Nikko

Nikko is a natural, rural, and historic town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Koh Lipe and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Nikko?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nikko. Although Koh Lipe and Nikko are both popular with visitors, Nikko has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nikko is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Koh Lipe is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Nikko is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular 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 Lipe is popular for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Koh Lipe different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Nikko that are not to be missed. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

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

Nikko is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nikko makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Koh Lipe or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Neither Koh Lipe or Nikko offer decent nightlife.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Lipe. This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Nikko 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 Lipe or Nikko Better for Resorts?

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

In Koh Lipe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Lipe is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Lipe is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Nikko Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Lipe is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Koh Lipe does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. 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 Lipe does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Lipe or Nikko Better for Hiking?

You'll find superb hiking in both Koh Lipe and Nikko.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lipe. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Nikko?

Nikko is very good for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Nikko is a great destination for shopping. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Is Koh Lipe or Nikko Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Koh Lipe or Nikko.

Koh Lipe is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nikko is very family-friendly. 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 Lipe or Nikko Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lipe and Nikko are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

Nikko has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Lipe or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

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

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

Visitors to Nikko can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Koh Lipe or Nikko a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe and Nikko both are superb when exploring on foot.

Koh Lipe is very walkable. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

Nikko is a very walkable island. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Lipe or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Koh Lipe. 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 Lipe 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 Lipe or Nikko?

In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this small destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Koh Lipe or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Lipe. 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.

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

Five days in Koh Lipe or Nikko?

Koh Lipe is a fun place to experience. In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. 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 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 Koh Lipe or Nikko?

In Koh Lipe, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this small destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Nikko is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Nikko, we can see that Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe Expensive? and Is Nikko Expensive?.

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

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

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko and Koh Lipe during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lipe because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Nikko in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in July than Nikko. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lipe and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lipe year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Nikko. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Lipe as well as Nikko. Koh Lipe attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Nikko because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nikko can be very cold. In January, Koh Lipe is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (80°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in January than Nikko. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Koh Lipe are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lipe throughout the year. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

Koh Lipe is much warmer than Nikko in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. In April, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Nikko. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Lipe is December to April. The rainy season in Koh Lipe is May to October.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Koh Lipe