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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan?

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 Koyasan. 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 historic, modern, and welcoming 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a traditional, peaceful, and serene town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur. Although Kuala Lumpur and Koyasan 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 Koyasan attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Kuala Lumpur is famous 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. Koyasan is famous for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kuala Lumpur are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Koyasan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

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

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Kuala Lumpur know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Koyasan offers some nice hiking trails. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan?

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Kuala Lumpur make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kuala Lumpur is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur and Koyasan both excellent destinations for a couple.

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.

Couples visit Koyasan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

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

Kuala Lumpur is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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 budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for students. However, Koyasan is not popular with students.

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

Koyasan is not popular with students.

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

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Kuala Lumpur can get you around easily. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

While Koyasan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Koyasan are excellent 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.

Koyasan is a very walkable city. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kuala Lumpur than Koyasan 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 Koyasan.

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

Because Kuala Lumpur is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Koyasan?

Because Kuala Lumpur is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer.

Koyasan is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Koyasan?

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koyasan is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kuala Lumpur. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koyasan is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

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

When is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan?

Koyasan 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 Koyasan in the Summer?

Both Koyasan and Kuala Lumpur during the summer 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, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is around the same temperature as Koyasan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Koyasan averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Kuala Lumpur. In the summer, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun.

Koyasan 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 around the same amount of rain in July as Koyasan. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Koyasan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally a little warmer than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koyasan during autumn. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Koyasan. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Koyasan in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Koyasan in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the winter. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in January than Koyasan. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Koyasan in the Spring?

Both Koyasan and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Koyasan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Koyasan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Koyasan averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during spring. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In April, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Kuala Lumpur