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

Should you visit Kyoto or Singapore?

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 Singapore 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Singapore

Singapore is a global, diverse, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Singapore?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Singapore than Kyoto, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Singapore is more popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Singapore is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront.

How is Kyoto different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kyoto on the map. 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.

Many visitors head to Singapore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The mix of cultures and unique history have led to museums and landmarks that mix historic and modern. The Merlion statue in Merlion Park has become a symbol of the city. For an educational experience, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum, and to see colonial architecture check out Fort Canning Park.

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

Singapore 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 Singapore have been singled out for their culinary prowess. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

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 Singapore Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Singapore 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 Singapore has a few options to choose from. It's all about the glitzy nightclubs and exclusive cocktail bars. Head to Clarke Quay, Marina Bay Sands, or one of the many rooftop bars to experience the best of Singapore's nightlife. Do keep in mind that the city has a high alcohol tax, and strict rules around drinking in public places during certain hours.

Is Kyoto or Singapore Better for Music?

Singapore 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 Singapore As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Kyoto or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Singapore is renowned for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Singapore is a world class resort vacation destination. From sleek high rises with rooftop pools to family-friendly resorts with kid oriented activities, this city has it all. Popular resorts include Oasia Resort Sentosa, Dusit Thani Laguna, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Kyoto or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore is not so good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Singapore isn't the best spot for snorkeling. The best place to snorkel in the area is Pulau Hantu.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kyoto or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Singapore is a city with good options for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Singapore. You'll find most of the area's best beaches on Sentosa Island. There's a 2 kilometer long artificial beach that is split into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Kyoto or Singapore Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Singapore does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Kyoto can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Singapore?

Singapore 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 Singapore make it a world-class shopping destination. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

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 Singapore Better for Families?

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

Singapore is an extremely popular city to visit for families. With places like Sentosa and Universal Studios, there really is no shortage of activities for kids. There's also a zoo, an aquarium, and bird park, and many kid-friendly museums.

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 Singapore Better for Couples?

Both Kyoto and Singapore are terrific 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.

Singapore is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Is Kyoto or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore is renowned for backpackers. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Singapore. Many backpackers use this city as a starting or ending point for their Southeast Asian backpacking trip. It's modern and glamourous, but still has plenty of backpacker-friendly and budget-friendly options.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Kyoto or Singapore Better for Students?

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

Singapore is a very popular city for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

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

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

Singapore is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Singapore has a great public transit system. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

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.

Is Kyoto or Singapore a more walkable city?

Kyoto and Singapore both are terrific when exploring on foot.

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.

Singapore is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's possible to walk in most areas in the city center. There are also park connectors that are nice for taking a stroll or going for a run.

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

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Singapore?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore 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 Singapore.

One day in Kyoto or Singapore?

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.

Each neighborhood in Singapore 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 Singapore?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional 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 Singapore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Singapore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional 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.

Singapore is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Singapore 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 Singapore?

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.

Each neighborhood in Singapore 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 Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kyoto and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Singapore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Singapore 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 Singapore Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Singapore?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Singapore, 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.