A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nikko vs. Hiroshima for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Nikko or Hiroshima?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nikko and Hiroshima 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a peaceful, natural, and rural town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a park-filled, memorable, and meaningful city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Nikko and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nikko. Although Nikko and Hiroshima are both popular with visitors, Nikko has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nikko is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima is known for its nightlife and shopping. Nikko is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. It is also home to the Toshogu Shrine. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Nikko different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nikko or Hiroshima?

Spend time exploring the world-class sights and museums in either Nikko or Hiroshima.

Travelers visit Nikko from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hiroshima are among the most recognizable in the world. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

Is the Food Better in Nikko or Hiroshima? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Nikko and Hiroshima offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hiroshima. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Hiroshima is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Hiroshima has a few options to choose from. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Nikko offers plenty to see. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a great town for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is great for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hiroshima. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Nikko is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Nikko is a very family-friendly destination. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Nikko is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Nikko is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko and Hiroshima both offer great public transit to get you around.

Visitors to Nikko can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

Is Nikko or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Nikko and Hiroshima are great when it comes to walkability.

Nikko is very walkable. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

Hiroshima is a very walkable town. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nikko and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nikko than in Hiroshima. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nikko than Hiroshima 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 Nikko.

One day in Nikko or Hiroshima?

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Hiroshima, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this memorable destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Nikko or Hiroshima?

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. 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 Nikko or Hiroshima?

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

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

A week in Nikko or Hiroshima?

Nikko 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Hiroshima, 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 Nikko or Hiroshima?

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 Nikko or Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Hiroshima in the summer. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

Both Hiroshima and Nikko during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Nikko is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nikko in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Hiroshima. Many travelers come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. In January, Nikko is generally much colder than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 3°C (37°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nikko usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nikko or Hiroshima in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Hiroshima. Many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Hiroshima in the spring. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Nikko often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets less rain in April than Hiroshima. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Nikko