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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama?

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 Yokohama. 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 welcoming, friendly, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a diverse, bright, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur and Yokohama: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Kuala Lumpur than Yokohama. While Yokohama is larger than Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Yokohama and is popular 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. Yokohama is popular for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Yokohama?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kuala Lumpur that are not to be missed. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Yokohama. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

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

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kuala Lumpur is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Yokohama has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Is Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kuala Lumpur and Yokohama.

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.

Yokohama is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Kuala Lumpur is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama Better for Families?

Yokohama is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Yokohama is very family-friendly. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur and Yokohama both great 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 Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

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

Kuala Lumpur is well known for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for students. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

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

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its public transit. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Kuala Lumpur can take you anywhere. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Yokohama has some very good public transit options. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Yokohama are great 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.

Yokohama is a very walkable city. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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

Should I spend more time in Yokohama or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Yokohama. 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 Yokohama 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 Yokohama?

Kuala Lumpur is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kuala Lumpur, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Yokohama 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 Yokohama?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kuala Lumpur, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid-back big city of Yokohama. 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 Yokohama?

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Yokohama 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

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

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Yokohama, 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 Yokohama?

Yokohama 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 Yokohama in the Summer?

Both Yokohama 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. Also, most visitors come to Yokohama for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Yokohama in the summer. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Yokohama fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Kuala Lumpur. In the summer, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Yokohama. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 137 hours of full sun.

Yokohama 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 July than Yokohama. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Yokohama. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Yokohama. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Yokohama averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during autumn. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Yokohama 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 Yokohama. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama in the Winter?

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

In January, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Kuala Lumpur often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Yokohama. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 175 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the winter. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in January than Yokohama. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Yokohama in the Spring?

Both Yokohama 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, many travelers come to Yokohama for the activities around the city.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Yokohama in the spring. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Yokohama fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during spring. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In April, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Yokohama. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Yokohama and Kuala Lumpur