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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan?

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 Dewa Sanzan. 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 this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a sacred, remote, and traditional religious site. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums.

Kuala Lumpur and Dewa Sanzan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur. Although Kuala Lumpur and Dewa Sanzan are popular destinations, Kuala Lumpur has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dewa Sanzan attracts visitors for its hiking. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan 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. Dewa Sanzan is famous for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Dewa Sanzan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

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

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Kuala Lumpur has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Kuala Lumpur has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan Better for Hiking?

Dewa Sanzan is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options 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.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly city. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan 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.

Dewa Sanzan is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Dewa Sanzan is not popular with students.

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

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its public transit.

Visitors in Kuala Lumpur can get around quickly with the extensive 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options 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.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

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

Should I spend more time in Dewa Sanzan or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kuala Lumpur and Dewa Sanzan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than in Dewa Sanzan. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dewa Sanzan.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Dewa Sanzan. 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 Dewa Sanzan. 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 Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan?

Kuala Lumpur is a friendly city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Dewa Sanzan, many people enjoy the museums that this religious religious site offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan?

Kuala Lumpur is a welcoming big city where you can fill many days. This city 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.

Dewa Sanzan is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Dewa Sanzan?

Kuala Lumpur is a historic city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums around the sacred destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Dewa Sanzan?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kuala Lumpur. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dewa Sanzan is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Kuala Lumpur and Dewa Sanzan, we can see that Dewa Sanzan 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 Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is Dewa Sanzan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan?

Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan in the Summer?

Both Dewa Sanzan 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, many visitors come to Dewa Sanzan in the summer for the hiking.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Dewa Sanzan averages at about 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 124 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dewa Sanzan. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives less rain than Dewa Sanzan. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan in the Autumn?

Both Dewa Sanzan 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking trails during these months.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun.

Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Dewa Sanzan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Dewa Sanzan can be very cold. Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around -1°C (30°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the winter. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Dewa Sanzan. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Dewa Sanzan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Dewa Sanzan. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Dewa Sanzan averages at about 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dewa Sanzan. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 188 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Dewa Sanzan. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dewa Sanzan and Kuala Lumpur