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

Should you visit Kyoto or Houston?

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 Houston 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 fascinating, traditional, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Kyoto and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Houston?

Both Houston and Kyoto have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Kyoto is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Houston is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Kyoto is more touristy than Houston and is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Kyoto different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Kyoto is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Kyoto or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Houston is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Houston know how to have a good time. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Kyoto or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Kyoto is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Kyoto or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Kyoto is revered around 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Houston?

Kyoto is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Kyoto or Houston Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Houston are very good to visit with kids.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Houston. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Kyoto or Houston Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Kyoto or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Kyoto or Houston Better for Students?

Kyoto is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Kyoto is well known for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Kyoto or Houston a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Houston?

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

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Houston. 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 Houston. 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 Houston 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 Houston?

In Kyoto, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Houston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Houston?

In Kyoto, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kyoto has to offer.

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

Kyoto is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Kyoto or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the one-of-a-kind big city of Houston. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Houston, 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 Houston?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kyoto or Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kyoto is around the same temperature as Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Houston. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Kyoto during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Kyoto is cooler than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kyoto in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Houston 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 October as Houston. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Houston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Houston. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Kyoto is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 5°C (40°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Kyoto usually receives less rain than Houston. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Houston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Houston. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city.

Kyoto is cooler than Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Houston. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Kyoto