A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Hiroshima for Nightlife, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Phuket or Hiroshima?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Hiroshima, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a energetic, party-hard, and stunning resort island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Phuket and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Hiroshima?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Phuket than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Phuket, Phuket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Phuket is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Phuket is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. It is also well known for The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Phuket different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hiroshima is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hiroshima is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Phuket is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Is Phuket or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Phuket is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. 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.

Is Phuket or Hiroshima Better for Resorts?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Phuket is a world class resort vacation destination. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Hiroshima Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a great resort island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Hiroshima Better for Beaches?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Phuket is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Hiroshima is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Is Phuket or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Phuket and Hiroshima are both nice destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Phuket. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Hiroshima offers lots of family activities. 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 Phuket or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Phuket is a great resort island for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

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 Phuket or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hiroshima is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

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

Hiroshima is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

While Phuket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

Is Phuket or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Phuket is a somewhat walkable resort island. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Phuket and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Phuket than in Hiroshima. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

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

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

One day in Phuket or Hiroshima?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Phuket. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Hiroshima?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the party-hard destination of Phuket. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Hiroshima 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 Phuket or Hiroshima?

You'll find nightlife and food around the activity-filled resort island of Phuket. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Phuket or Hiroshima?

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phuket, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Phuket and Hiroshima, we can see that Phuket 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 Phuket Expensive? and Is Hiroshima Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket 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 Phuket or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Phuket or Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima and Phuket during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the summer, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 194 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 Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in July than Hiroshima. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Phuket is much warmer than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Phuket usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during autumn. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Phuket is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Hiroshima. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Hiroshima for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hiroshima can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Phuket is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the winter, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun.

Phuket usually gets less rain in January than Hiroshima. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year.

In April, Phuket is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during spring. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In April, Phuket usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Phuket