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

Should you visit Seoul or Hiroshima?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Hiroshima can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Hiroshima

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

Seoul and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul than Hiroshima. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seoul is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Seoul different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hiroshima is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

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

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Seoul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

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 Seoul or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a great city for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Seoul has something for everybody. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

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 Seoul or Hiroshima Better for Music?

Seoul is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Hiroshima is not a live music destination.

Seoul is known as a music capital around the world. K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Hiroshima is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Hiroshima?

Seoul is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Seoul. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

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.

Is Seoul or Hiroshima Better for Families?

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

Seoul is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

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 Seoul or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

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

Seoul is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

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 Seoul or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Hiroshima are nice destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

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

Is Seoul or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Seoul is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seoul. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Seoul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

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 Seoul or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Seoul and Hiroshima both are superb when exploring on foot.

Seoul is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Hiroshima?

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

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

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

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

One day in Seoul or Hiroshima?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. 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.

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 Seoul or Hiroshima?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city 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 Seoul or Hiroshima?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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 Seoul or Hiroshima?

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Hiroshima?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Seoul 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 Seoul or Hiroshima?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Hiroshima. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Hiroshima. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

Both Hiroshima and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene during these months.

Seoul is cooler than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hiroshima can be very cold. Seoul can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Hiroshima. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Hiroshima in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Hiroshima. The spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city.

In April, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the spring.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Seoul