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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Nikko? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a laid back, beautiful, and tropical resort island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Nikko

Nikko is a cultural, tranquil, and relaxing town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Koh Samui and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Samui than Nikko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Samui is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Nikko is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Koh Samui is more touristy than Nikko and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Also, Koh Samui is famous for The Big Buddha Temple. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Koh Samui different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Nikko has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Nikko can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

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.

Is Koh Samui or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Koh Samui is a world class party destination. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

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 Samui or Nikko Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

Koh Samui is a world class resort vacation destination. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

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

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

Koh Samui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Nikko Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Samui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Nikko offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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 Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Samui or Nikko Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Koh Samui and Nikko both have excellent trails.

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Nikko is a popular spot for hiking. 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 Samui or Nikko?

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Samui and Nikko both offer plenty of notable spots.

Koh Samui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

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

Is Koh Samui or Nikko Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Nikko.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Nikko is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Samui or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for romance.

Nikko makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Koh Samui is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

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

For backpackers, both Koh Samui and Nikko are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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

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

Nikko is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its public transit.

The public transit in Nikko can get you to most places easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Koh Samui or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. 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 Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Nikko?

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

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

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this tropical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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 Samui or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. 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 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 Samui or Nikko?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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 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 Samui or Nikko?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back 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 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to 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 Samui and Nikko, we can see that Nikko is more expensive. And not only is Koh Samui much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Samui would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Samui 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 Samui.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Nikko?

Koh Samui has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Nikko, 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 Samui or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Koh Samui is around the same temperature as Nikko. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Samui in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Nikko averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In July, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Nikko. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Nikko in the Autumn?

Both Nikko and Koh Samui during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (75°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Nikko. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nikko in the winter. Koh Samui is much warmer than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 22°C (72°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Nikko. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Nikko in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Nikko. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Nikko for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Koh Samui is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Samui in April average around 24°C (76°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Nikko. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Koh Samui