A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Kyoto vs. Hiroshima for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kyoto or Hiroshima?

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 Hiroshima 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 traditional, historic, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kyoto than Hiroshima. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kyoto is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Kyoto different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the world-class sights and museums in both Kyoto and Hiroshima.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hiroshima has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Kyoto or Hiroshima? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Kyoto and Hiroshima.

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.

Hiroshima has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Kyoto or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima has a few options to choose from. 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 Kyoto or Hiroshima Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kyoto offers plenty to see. 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.

Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Hiroshima?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hiroshima and Kyoto.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hiroshima. 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 Kyoto or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Kyoto or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Kyoto is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

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 Kyoto or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Kyoto is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Kyoto or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Kyoto is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Kyoto and Hiroshima.

Public transit in Kyoto can get you to some places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Hiroshima. 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 Kyoto or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly 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 Kyoto Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Hiroshima?

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

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima. 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 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 Kyoto.

One day in Kyoto or Hiroshima?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Hiroshima, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this memorable destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Hiroshima?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hiroshima is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Hiroshima?

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in Japan, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan, and The Best Luxury Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Kyoto and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima 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 Kyoto Expensive? and Is Hiroshima Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Hiroshima?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto 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 Kyoto or Hiroshima?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kyoto or Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima and Kyoto during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In July, Kyoto is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In the summer, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 194 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 Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Hiroshima. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Hiroshima. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

Kyoto is around the same temperature as Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Hiroshima. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Kyoto. In the winter, Kyoto is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hiroshima. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Kyoto is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 14°C (58°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Kyoto