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

Should you visit Nikko or Koh Tao?

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 Tao 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. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a laid back, mellow, and beautiful island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Nikko and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Nikko and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Tao is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. Koh Tao is famous for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Nikko different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao 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 Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Both Nikko and Koh Tao offer a number of high quality 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 Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Nikko or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Koh Tao for the nightlife scene. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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 Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

In Koh Tao, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

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

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

Koh Tao is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nikko or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Tao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Koh Tao 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.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Koh Tao are destinations which offer high quality 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 Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Koh Tao?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nikko and Koh Tao both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Nikko. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Koh Tao offers some nice shopping areas. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Nikko or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Nikko is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Nikko or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for couples.

Nikko has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

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

Koh Tao 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 Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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 Tao 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. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Nikko can get you to some places easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Nikko or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Nikko and Koh Tao are high quality 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.

Koh Tao is a very walkable town. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Koh Tao?

Both Nikko and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Nikko. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

One day in Nikko or Koh Tao?

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this laid back 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 Tao?

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer.

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

Nikko is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a fun place to experience. In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Nikko or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. 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 in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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 Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Koh Tao?

Nikko has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

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

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Tao in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Nikko is around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nikko in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Tao. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Nikko during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Nikko because of 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 Tao year-round.

In October, Nikko is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 16°C (61°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In the autumn, Nikko often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

Koh Tao 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 Tao. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Koh Tao. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

It's quite cold in Nikko in the winter. Nikko is much colder than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Tao this time of the year. In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Should I visit Nikko or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Nikko for the small town charm and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the spring, Nikko is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nikko in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In the spring, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets more rain in April than Koh Tao. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Nikko