A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Atami for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

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 Kuala Lumpur and Atami. 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.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a friendly, diverse, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Kuala Lumpur is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Atami

Atami is a overlooked, nostalgic, and authentic town. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Atami travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Atami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur. Although Kuala Lumpur and Atami are popular destinations, Kuala Lumpur has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Atami attracts visitors for its beaches. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Atami and is known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also well known for The Petronas Twin Towers. Atami is famous for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Atami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur are world-renowned. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Atami. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Atami? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Kuala Lumpur have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Atami area. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami Better for Beaches?

Atami is a good destination for its beaches. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Atami offers a nice beach destination. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Kuala Lumpur draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Many visitors go to Atami to go shopping. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Kuala Lumpur is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kuala Lumpur is very family-friendly. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Atami is a good city for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kuala Lumpur. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Atami is not popular with students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular city for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Atami is not popular with students.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Kuala Lumpur has a great public transit system. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

You'll find some public transit in Atami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Atami a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Atami is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Atami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atami or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kuala Lumpur or Atami to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kuala Lumpur than Atami because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 1-2 days is enough time in Atami.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Atami 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 Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

Each neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Atami, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

Atami is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

Kuala Lumpur is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Atami. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful big city of Kuala Lumpur. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Atami is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Atami, we can see that Atami is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Atami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atami than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

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

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Atami. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Atami, 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 Kuala Lumpur or Atami?

Atami has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Atami in the Summer?

Both Atami and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Atami because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is around the same temperature as Atami. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Atami averages at about 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Atami during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atami. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives less rain than Atami. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Atami receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Atami in the Autumn?

Both Atami and Kuala Lumpur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Atami this time of year.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Atami. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Atami fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Atami. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 130 hours of full sun.

Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Atami. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Atami receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Atami in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Atami. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, many travelers come to Atami for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Atami in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Atami fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Atami during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Atami. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Atami receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Atami in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Atami. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Atami in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Atami. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Atami averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Atami. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 161 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atami. Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Atami. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Atami receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atami and Kuala Lumpur