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

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

Bali

Bali is a tropical, lush, and frequented island. Many visitors also come to Bali because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Bali travel costs.

Hiroshima

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

Bali and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Hiroshima?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bali than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Bali, Bali has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bali is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Bali is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Bali different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hiroshima is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Bali 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.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali 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 Bali have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

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 Bali or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Bali 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 Bali is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

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 Bali or Hiroshima Better for Resorts?

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

Bali is a world class resort vacation destination. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Hiroshima Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Bali is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Hiroshima Better for Beaches?

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

Bali is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Hiroshima Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great island for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bali for the hiking trails. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Hiroshima?

Both Bali and Hiroshima are superb shopping destinations.

Bali is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hiroshima. 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 Bali or Hiroshima More Beautiful?

Bali is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Bali because of it's amazing beauty. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bali or Hiroshima Better for Families?

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

Bali is a very family-friendly destination. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

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 Bali or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Bali is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Bali is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

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 Bali or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

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

Hiroshima is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Hiroshima can get you to some places 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.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Bali or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island 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.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Bali?

How long in Bali or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Hiroshima. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

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

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

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

One day in Bali or Hiroshima?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Bali. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bali or Hiroshima?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the lush destination of Bali. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Hiroshima is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Hiroshima?

You'll find nightlife and food around the frequented island of Bali. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the park-filled destination of Hiroshima. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Hiroshima?

Bali 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 Bali, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The meaningful city of Hiroshima offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali 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 Bali.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali 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 Bali or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Bali or Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Hiroshima. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bali is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Bali usually gets less rain in July than Hiroshima. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

Both Hiroshima and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during autumn. Bali gets 266 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, Bali usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Bali during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts 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 the winter, Bali is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Hiroshima. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Hiroshima in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during spring. Bali gets 226 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, Bali usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Bali