A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nikko vs. Koh Phi Phi for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Nikko or Koh Phi Phi?

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 Koh Phi Phi 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 historic, cultural, and tranquil town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking. See Nikko travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a rustic, remote, and tropical island. Many visitors also come to Koh Phi Phi because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Nikko and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Koh Phi Phi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Nikko and Koh Phi Phi are popular destinations, Koh Phi Phi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Nikko and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also well known for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Nikko different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is renowned for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Nikko are world-renowned. 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.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

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

Nikko is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Nikko has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Phi Phi is great for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Koh Phi Phi for the nightlife scene. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

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 Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a world class resort vacation destination. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Koh Phi Phi is considered to be a world-class beach destination. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is renowned for its old town. However, Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Nikko is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Koh Phi Phi are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

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.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular spot for hiking. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Koh Phi Phi?

Nikko is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nikko. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Nikko and Koh Phi Phi both are comparable with their terrific scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Phi Phi as well. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Nikko is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nikko is very family-friendly. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Both Nikko and Koh Phi Phi are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Koh Phi Phi is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Phi Phi. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Nikko is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

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

Nikko is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Nikko has some very good public transit options. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Nikko or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Nikko is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Nikko is a very walkable town. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable town. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Koh Phi Phi. 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 Koh Phi Phi. 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 Koh Phi Phi than Nikko 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 Koh Phi Phi.

One day in Nikko or Koh Phi Phi?

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Koh Phi Phi, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Koh Phi Phi?

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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 Koh Phi Phi. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Koh Phi Phi?

Because Nikko is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Phi Phi. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Nikko or Koh Phi Phi?

Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the dramatic destination of Koh Phi Phi. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Nikko and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Nikko is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Koh Phi Phi?

Nikko has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Koh Phi Phi?

Nikko has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Phi Phi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Nikko is cooler than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nikko in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Nikko during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nikko in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

In October, Nikko is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 16°C (61°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Koh Phi Phi. Most visitors come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Nikko can be very cold during winter. Nikko is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the winter. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season.

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Koh Phi Phi. The spring months attract visitors to Nikko because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

In the spring, Nikko is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nikko in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. In the spring, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Nikko