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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima?

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 Hiroshima. 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 colorful, historic, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a park-filled, memorable, and meaningful city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Hiroshima travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Hiroshima, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Hiroshima 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 home to The Petronas Twin Towers. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the fantastic sights and museums in either Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima.

Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hiroshima are among the most recognizable in the world. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

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

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hiroshima. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Kuala Lumpur has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. 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.

Hiroshima is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

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

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Kuala Lumpur is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima 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. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Hiroshima are very good when it comes to walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. 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.

Hiroshima is a very walkable city. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima?

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

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Hiroshima, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this memorable city offers. 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 Hiroshima?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Hiroshima 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. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the memorable destination of Hiroshima. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Hiroshima?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Hiroshima 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Hiroshima, 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 Hiroshima?

Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the family-friendly experiences.

Kuala Lumpur is around the same temperature as Hiroshima in the summer. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In Kuala Lumpur, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kuala Lumpur usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hiroshima. In January, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Kuala Lumpur during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Hiroshima in the spring. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima 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 April than Hiroshima. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Kuala Lumpur