A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Kamakura for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Lombok or Kamakura?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Kamakura. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a stunning, peaceful, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty in Lombok as well. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Lombok travel costs.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a laid back, ancient, and quaint coastal city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Kamakura travel costs.

Lombok and Kamakura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Kamakura?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and Kamakura are popular destinations, Lombok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lombok is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Kamakura attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights. Lombok is famous for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also well known for Mount Rinjani. Kamakura is famous for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches.

How is Lombok different from Kamakura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Kamakura?

Kamakura is great for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kamakura. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Kamakura? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lombok and Kamakura both to be superb destinations.

Lombok has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Dining out in Kamakura is an experience not to be missed. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Nightlife?

Kamakura is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Kamakura for the nightlife scene. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lombok. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Kamakura is not a resort destination.

Lombok is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Kamakura is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

The clear water and abundant marine life make Lombok a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Kamakura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Beaches?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Lombok. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Many people head to Kamakura to enjoy the beach. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for its Old Town?

Kamakura is a good destination for its old town. However, Lombok does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kamakura. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Lombok does not have a historic old town.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its hiking trails.

Lombok is a popular spot for hiking. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamakura. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Kamakura?

Lombok is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lombok is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamakura. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Lombok or Kamakura More Beautiful?

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

You'll find world class beauty in Lombok as well. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Kamakura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Families?

Lombok is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lombok is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Kamakura is a family-friendly island. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Couples?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its romantic activities.

Lombok makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Kamakura makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lombok is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Kamakura is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

Is Lombok or Kamakura Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kamakura is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Kamakura offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Lombok or Kamakura a more walkable city?

Kamakura is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Kamakura is a somewhat walkable place. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Kamakura Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamakura or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Kamakura?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lombok or Kamakura to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Kamakura because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamakura.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Kamakura 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Kamakura?

The beautiful island of Lombok offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kamakura. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lombok or Kamakura?

Lombok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kamakura is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Kamakura?

Lombok is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kamakura. 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 Lombok or Kamakura?

Lombok is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one week is probably not enough for all of it. This island offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the ancient destination of Kamakura. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Kamakura?

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

Should I visit Lombok or Kamakura in the Summer?

Both Kamakura and Lombok during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kamakura for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lombok is generally around the same temperature as Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 26°C (79°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Kamakura gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lombok usually gets less rain in July than Kamakura. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the dry season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Kamakura in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Kamakura. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kamakura in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Lombok is much warmer than Kamakura in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Kamakura fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lombok usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 177 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Kamakura in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Lombok is much warmer than Kamakura. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lombok in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Kamakura averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Lombok often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kamakura. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 175 hours of full sun.

Lombok usually gets more rain in January than Kamakura. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Kamakura in the Spring?

Both Kamakura and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the beaches.

In April, Lombok is generally much warmer than Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kamakura. In April, Lombok usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Lombok is May to September. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April.

Typical Weather for Kamakura and Lombok