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

Should you visit Phuket or Nikko?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Nikko, 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a cultural, tranquil, and relaxing town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Phuket and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Nikko?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nikko. Although Phuket and Nikko are popular destinations, Nikko has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nikko is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Phuket attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Phuket is more touristy than Nikko and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. It is also well known for the Toshogu Shrine.

How is Phuket different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Nikko are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Nikko 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 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.

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 Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Phuket is a world class party destination. 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.

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 Phuket or Nikko Better for Resorts?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko 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.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Nikko Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko 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.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Nikko Better for Beaches?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko 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.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Phuket or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its old town. However, Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Nikko offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Is Phuket or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nikko. 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.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Nikko?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nikko and Phuket.

Phuket offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Nikko has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Phuket or Nikko Better for Families?

Nikko is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Phuket or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

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.

Is Phuket or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is a great destination for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

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

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

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 Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko 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.

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.

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 Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Phuket or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Phuket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

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

One day in Phuket or Nikko?

In Phuket, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this party-hard destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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.

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Phuket or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Nikko 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 Nikko?

Phuket is a fun place to experience. In Phuket, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Nikko?

In Phuket, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this energetic 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.

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Phuket and Nikko, we can see that Phuket 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 Phuket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phuket 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 Phuket Expensive? and Is Nikko Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Nikko?

Phuket has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Nikko, 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 Nikko?

Nikko 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 Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Phuket is generally a little warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the summer, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun.

Nikko 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 Nikko. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Furthermore, 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.

Phuket is much warmer than Nikko in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during autumn. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nikko 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 Nikko. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 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 Nikko in the Winter?

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

Nikko can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Phuket is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Nikko averages at about 3°C (37°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nikko. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the winter, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun.

Phuket usually gets more rain in January than Nikko. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nikko because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Phuket is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during spring. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In April, Phuket usually receives more rain than Nikko. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Phuket