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

Should you visit Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai and Hiroshima can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a park-filled, memorable, and meaningful city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Sukhothai and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park


Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sukhothai. Although Sukhothai and Hiroshima are both popular with visitors, Sukhothai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sukhothai is more popular for its historical sights, while Hiroshima is known for its museums. Sukhothai is popular for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. It is also home to Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Sukhothai different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Hiroshima is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Hiroshima from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.


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

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Hiroshima can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sukhothai. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

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 Sukhothai or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Both Sukhothai and Hiroshima have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sukhothai. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Hiroshima has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Sukhothai or Hiroshima Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Sukhothai is a great city for its historic old town. However, Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

Sukhothai is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Sukhothai and Hiroshima.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sukhothai. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

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 Sukhothai or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Sukhothai or Hiroshima.

Sukhothai is a family-friendly city. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hiroshima. 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 Sukhothai or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Both Sukhothai and Hiroshima are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Sukhothai is a nice destination for couples. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

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 Sukhothai or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Sukhothai and Hiroshima are both good destinations for backpackers.

Sukhothai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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

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

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Hiroshima is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Hiroshima can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Sukhothai, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Is Sukhothai or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Sukhothai
Hiroshima

Hiroshima is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.


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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sukhothai and Hiroshima. In our opinion, Hiroshima has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hiroshima than Sukhothai. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Sukhothai or Hiroshima? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sukhothai 2-3 
    Hiroshima 2-3

One day in Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sukhothai. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Hiroshima. 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.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the world class destination of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Sukhothai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the park-filled city of Hiroshima. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

Sukhothai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Hiroshima is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Hiroshima or Sukhothai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Sukhothai is $59, while the average daily cost in Hiroshima is $100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Sukhothai and Hiroshima in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sukhothai $23
    Hiroshima $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sukhothai $46
    Hiroshima $128
Compare Hotels in Sukhothai and Hiroshima

Looking for a hotel in Sukhothai or Hiroshima? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Sukhothai


Hotels in Hiroshima


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sukhothai Hotel Prices and Hiroshima Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sukhothai $17
    Hiroshima $9.71

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sukhothai

Also for Sukhothai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer to Bangkok City: $322
  • Private Transfer to Bangkok City: $268
  • One -Way Private Transfer to Chiang Mai: $187
  • Sukhothai Hotel Transfer: to/from Chiang Mai Hotel Transfer: $159
  • Sukhothai : private car transfer to/from Chiang Mai: $138
  • Sukhothai airport: Transfer to Sukhothai Historical Park: $78

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hiroshima

Also for Hiroshima, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Port to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ): $54
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Hiroshima Port: $59
  • Private Departure Transfer Hiroshima City to Hiroshima International Airport: $215
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Hiroshima International Airport to Hiroshima City: $215
  • Iwakuni Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $228
  • Hiroshima port Shore excursion Private transfer: $472
  • Hiroshima Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $171

Is it cheaper to fly into Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

Prices for flights to both Hiroshima and Sukhothai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Sukhothai $19
    Hiroshima $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hiroshima

For Hiroshima, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hiroshima No1 food!! 'Okonomiyaki'-cooking class: $40
  • Local Favorites Private Night Food Tour: $66
  • Food and Culture Guided Walking Tour with Dinner: $73
  • Bar Hopping Food Tour: $79
  • Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour: $81
  • Enjoy a Private Japanese Cooking Class with a Local Hiroshima Family: $90
  • Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima: $94
  • Best of Hiroshima Food Tour: $153

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sukhothai $33
    Hiroshima $5.39

Tours and Activities in Sukhothai

For Sukhothai, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cycling Sukhothai Full Day Countryside Tour: $32
  • 2.5-Hours Guided Countryside Sunset Bike Tour: $18
  • Full-Day Historical Park Cycling Tour with Lunch: $42
  • Half-Day Countryside Bike Tour: $26
  • Historical Park & Countryside Cycling Tour: $42

Tours and Activities in Hiroshima

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hiroshima.

  • Kimono and Calligraphy Experience in Miyajima: $65
  • 4 Hour Hiroshima Miyajima Private Tour: $102
  • An Amazing set of Cultural experience: Kimono, Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy: $97
  • Field Archery Experience in Hiroshima, Japan: $37
  • From Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour: $107
  • From Private Tour to Kure: $126
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Hiroshima and Miyajima: $110
  • Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima : $270
  • Guided Virtual Tour of Peace Park in Hiroshima/PEACE PARK TOUR VR: $32
  • Half Day Private Guided Walking Tour in Hiroshima City: $200
  • Half Trekking Tour with Panoramic View of Miyajima Included Lunch: $119
  • Hiroshima & Miyajima Island Private Guided Tour: $155

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sukhothai $12
    Hiroshima $12


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

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


Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Sukhothai or Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Sukhothai is a little warmer than Hiroshima in the summer. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Sukhothai usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sukhothai 29°C (84°F) 
    Hiroshima 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Sukhothai is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sukhothai in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sukhothai this time of the year. In the autumn, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sukhothai 28°C (83°F) 
    Hiroshima 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. 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. In January, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 25°C (77°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sukhothai 25°C (77°F) 
    Hiroshima 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Sukhothai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It's very hot in Sukhothai this time of the year. Sukhothai is much warmer than Hiroshima in the spring. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Hiroshima. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year. October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sukhothai 32°C (89°F) 
    Hiroshima 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Sukhothai

Sukhothai Hiroshima
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 30°C (86°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 32°C (89°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 168 mm (6.6 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 189 mm (7.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 157 mm (6.2 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 260 mm (10.2 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 238 mm (9.4 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 257 mm (10.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 29°C (84°F) 241 mm (9.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 185 mm (7.3 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)