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

Should you visit Malang or Kyoto?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Malang or Kyoto? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Malang

Malang is a authentic, cultural, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Malang travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a fascinating, traditional, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of Kyoto is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kyoto travel costs.

Malang and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malang or Kyoto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kyoto than Malang. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kyoto is very popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Malang attracts visitors for its food and hiking. Kyoto is more touristy than Malang and is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji. Malang is famous for its many nearby natural attractions.

How is Malang different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kyoto that are not to be missed. 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.

Malang offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of museums around town that provide information on the city's culture and history. There are also mosques, temples, and the famous Rainbow Village.

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

Malang 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 Malang have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.

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 Malang or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Malang and Kyoto.

Malang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The universities around town mean that there's a youthful vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll also find a mix of cultural activities as well as modern and trendy venues. There are dance clubs, upscale lounges, and everything in between.

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 Malang or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Malang 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.

Malang does not have a historic old town.

Is Malang or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

Malang is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Malang. Many visitors use this city as a base for hiking Mount Bromo. It's popular to hire a jeep tour from town, or you can hire a private driver or motorbike. Near town you'll also find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It's possible to hike to the base of the waterfall, but it's a very challenging route.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Malang or Kyoto?

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

Kyoto is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Malang. You'll find places to pick up many local items. The region is known for its ceramics, wood, and rattan (palms).

Is Malang or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Kyoto is one of the main draws. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Malang or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kyoto is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kyoto is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Malang offers lots of family activities. If you're willing to head just outside of town, you'll find theme parks and waterparks. Some of the favorites are Batu Secret Zoo, Jatim Park, Selecta Park, and Batu Night Spectacular.

Is Malang or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Kyoto makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Malang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy culture, museums, temples, and great food will have a good time visiting this city. It is also a bit cooler than much of Indonesia, which can make a nice escape from the heat.

Is Malang or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is well known for backpackers. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Malang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through town when they're headed to climb Mount Bromo. There are plenty of hostels and cheap places to stay as well as some sights that are worth checking out.

Is Malang or Kyoto Better for Students?

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

Kyoto is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

It's common for students to visit Malang. The university means that there's a large student population in town.

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

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

Visitors to Kyoto can move around easily with public transportation. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Malang. Angkot or mikrolet are small buses or modified cars that carry passengers around town. Many visitors also hire a motor scooter or driver to get around.

Is Malang or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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.

Malang is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Malang?

How long in Malang or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Malang and Kyoto. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kyoto than Malang. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Malang, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Malang 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 Malang or Kyoto?

In Malang, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Malang or Kyoto?

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

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Malang or Kyoto?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Malang or Kyoto?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Kyoto. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malang and Kyoto, we can see that Kyoto is more expensive. And not only is Malang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Malang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Malang 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 Kyoto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kyoto than you might in Malang.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Malang Expensive? and Is Kyoto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Malang or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Malang. When comparing the sizes of Malang and Kyoto, 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.