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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Nikko?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Nikko. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a undiscovered, secluded, and remote island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Nikko

Nikko is a peaceful, natural, and rural town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Koh Tarutao and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nikko than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nikko is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Nikko is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. Also, Nikko is famous for the Toshogu Shrine. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its 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 Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Nikko is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Nikko has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Neither Koh Tarutao or Nikko offer decent nightlife.

Koh Tarutao doesn't offer many options. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Things get quiet in the evenings 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 Tarutao or Nikko Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nikko Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Tarutao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Nikko offers plenty to see. 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 Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Nikko, and they are very good.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Nikko?

Nikko is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Nikko has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nikko Better for Families?

Nikko is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nikko. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Nikko is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Koh Tarutao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

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

Nikko is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

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

Nikko is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options 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 Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Tarutao or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nikko due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Koh Tarutao. 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 Tarutao. 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 Tarutao 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 Tarutao or Nikko?

In Koh Tarutao, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Nikko?

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Because Nikko is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Nikko?

You'll find around the secluded destination of Koh Tarutao. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural 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 Tarutao and Nikko, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Nikko much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nikko would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nikko 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 Koh Tarutao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Tarutao than you might in Nikko.

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

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

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

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nikko in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Nikko. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Nikko averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Nikko. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Nikko. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Nikko. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nikko in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Nikko. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Koh Tarutao during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Nikko. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Koh Tarutao