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

Should you visit Kyoto or Washington?

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 Washington 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.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Washington?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Washington than Kyoto. While Kyoto is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Kyoto attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Kyoto is famous for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Washington is famous for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Kyoto different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the amazing sights and museums in both Kyoto and Washington.

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, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for Theater?

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

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Kyoto is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington 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 Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington Better for Nightlife?

Washington 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 Washington know how to have a good time. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington Better for Music?

Washington 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 Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Washington?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Washington 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 Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Kyoto does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination for shoppers. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Kyoto does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Washington are superb 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 Washington. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Kyoto 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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Kyoto or Washington Better for Students?

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

Washington is a very popular city for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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

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

Washington 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.

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore 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 Washington a more walkable city?

Kyoto and Washington both are amazing 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.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Washington or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Washington?

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

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

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

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

One day in Kyoto or Washington?

With museums and nightlife around the fascinating city of Kyoto, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Washington 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 Washington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kyoto, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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

Kyoto, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kyoto or Washington?

Kyoto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Washington?

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

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 Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington and Kyoto during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Washington. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Washington. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Washington in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Washington. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Kyoto is a little warmer than Washington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Washington during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Washington. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Washington in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Washington. The winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. In the winter, Kyoto is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Washington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Washington. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets less rain in January than Washington. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Washington in the Spring?

Both Washington and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Washington. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Washington during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Washington. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Washington and Kyoto