A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kyoto vs. Denver for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kyoto or Denver?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kyoto and Denver can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a historic, cultural, and fascinating city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Denver

Denver is a suburban, accessible, and sprawling city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Kyoto and Denver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Denver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kyoto than Denver. Kyoto is bigger than Denver, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kyoto is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Denver is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Kyoto is more touristy than Denver and is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji. Denver is well known for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area.

How is Kyoto different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Skiing?

Denver is a city with good options for winter skiing. However, Kyoto is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Denver is a great destination to visit. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Kyoto is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kyoto or Denver?

Kyoto is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kyoto are among the most recognizable in the world. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Is the Food Better in Kyoto or Denver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kyoto is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kyoto. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Denver has a better nightlife scene.

Kyoto has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

If you're looking for night time activities Denver has a few options to choose from. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is renowned for its old town. However, Denver does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Kyoto is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Denver does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Hiking?

Denver is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Denver. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Denver?

Kyoto is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Families?

Kyoto is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Denver is a family-friendly city. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Couples?

Kyoto is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Kyoto has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Denver is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Denver is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kyoto is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Denver is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Some backpackers fly into Denver to begin their national park tour. There is a hostel or two around town, and if you leave town quickly you'll find campgrounds not far away.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Students?

Kyoto is a well-known place for students. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Kyoto is a great city to visit as a student. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Plenty of students visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Is Kyoto or Denver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kyoto is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Kyoto has some very good public transit options. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Denver has some public transit options. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Is Kyoto or Denver a more walkable city?

Kyoto is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Kyoto on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Kyoto Worth Visiting? and Is Denver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denver or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kyoto and Denver. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kyoto than Denver. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Denver 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 Kyoto.

One day in Kyoto or Denver?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Denver, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this park-filled destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Kyoto or Denver?

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Denver. 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.

Five days in Kyoto or Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Denver is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Denver. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Denver?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Kyoto. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the sprawling destination of Denver. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kyoto and Denver, we can see that Denver is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kyoto is in Asia and Denver is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Denver would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Denver than you might in Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Denver?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Denver. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Denver, 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.