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

Should you visit Kyoto or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles 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 cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Kyoto and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Kyoto, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Kyoto and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Kyoto different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the fantastic sights and museums in both Kyoto and Los Angeles.

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, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Kyoto is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Kyoto is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Los Angeles have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for its live music scene. However, Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a great destination for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

In Los Angeles, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Around Los Angeles visitors will find world-class hiking trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. 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.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an extremely popular city to visit for families. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kyoto. 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.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Both Kyoto and Los Angeles are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Los Angeles are very good places to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for students. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is a very popular city for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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

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

Kyoto is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Kyoto or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Kyoto is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Los Angeles?

Both Kyoto and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Kyoto. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

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

One day in Kyoto or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Kyoto. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kyoto or Los Angeles?

The traditional city of Kyoto offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kyoto or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Los Angeles?

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

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 Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Los Angeles. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kyoto is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kyoto in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the summer. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Kyoto is generally around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 18°C (64°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In October, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Kyoto during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. Kyoto is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Kyoto usually gets less rain in January than Los Angeles. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kyoto is cooler than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kyoto in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Kyoto