A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Nikko for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Sukhothai or Nikko?

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 Nikko 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a cultural, tranquil, and relaxing town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sukhothai and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Nikko?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nikko. Although Sukhothai and Nikko are both popular with visitors, Nikko has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nikko is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai is known for its nightlife and shopping. Nikko is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. It is also home to the Toshogu Shrine. Sukhothai is popular for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is an amazing town 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 Nikko from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

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 Nikko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Nikko 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 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.

Is Sukhothai or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Sukhothai has a few options to choose from. 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.

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 Sukhothai or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors go to Sukhothai to see the historical old town. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Nikko?

Sukhothai is great for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Sukhothai or Nikko Better for Families?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Nikko is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Nikko has plenty to offer. 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.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Sukhothai or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Nikko is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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

Nikko 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 Nikko can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

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 Nikko a more walkable city?

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

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 Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Sukhothai or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nikko due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Sukhothai. 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 Sukhothai. 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 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 Nikko.

One day in Sukhothai or Nikko?

In Sukhothai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this world class destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Nikko?

Sukhothai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sukhothai. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Nikko?

You'll find food and shopping around the under-rated destination of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nikko 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.

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 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 Sukhothai and Nikko, we can see that Nikko 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 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 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 Nikko Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Nikko?

Sukhothai has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai or Nikko?

Nikko 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 Nikko in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Sukhothai is a little warmer than Nikko in the summer. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Nikko. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Nikko. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Sukhothai is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sukhothai in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Nikko averages at about 16°C (61°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 Nikko. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in October than Nikko. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 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.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko 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 Nikko because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nikko can be very cold. In January, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 25°C (77°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite sunny in Nikko. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Nikko. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko 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. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

It's very hot in Sukhothai this time of the year. Sukhothai is much warmer than Nikko in the spring. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Nikko. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 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.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Sukhothai