A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Nikko for Attractions, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Lombok or Nikko?

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 Nikko. 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 cultural, stunning, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Lombok travel costs.

Nikko

Nikko is a relaxing, peaceful, and natural town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking. See Nikko travel costs.

Lombok and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Nikko?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and Nikko are popular destinations, Lombok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lombok is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and small town charm. Lombok is famous for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also well known for Mount Rinjani. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Lombok different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Nikko are world-renowned. 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.

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 Nikko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lombok and Nikko both to be very good 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 Nikko is an experience not to be missed. 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 Lombok or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Lombok is a island with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

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

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 Lombok or Nikko Better for Resorts?

Lombok is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

In Lombok, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Nikko Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Nikko Better for Beaches?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Lombok is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Lombok does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Nikko is revered around the world. 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.

Lombok does not have a historic old town.

Is Lombok or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Nikko, and they are very good.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. 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.

Nikko is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Nikko?

Lombok 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 Lombok. 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.

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

Is Lombok or Nikko More Beautiful?

Lombok and Nikko are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

You'll find world class beauty in Nikko as well. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Is Lombok or Nikko Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Nikko are very good family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. 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.

Nikko is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Lombok or Nikko Better for Couples?

Lombok and Nikko both fantastic destinations for a couple.

Lombok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Nikko makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Is Lombok or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lombok. 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.

Nikko is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

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

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

The public transit in Nikko can get you around easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

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 Nikko a more walkable city?

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

Nikko is a very walkable town. 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.

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 Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Lombok or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lombok due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

Couples should spend more time in Lombok than Nikko. 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 Nikko 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 Nikko?

In Lombok, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this peaceful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lombok or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Nikko is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Nikko?

Lombok is a fun place to experience. In Lombok, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Nikko?

In Lombok, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this laid back destination offers. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one week exploring.

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 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 Lombok and Nikko, we can see that Nikko 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 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 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 Nikko Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Nikko?

Nikko 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 Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Nikko. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Lombok is May to September.

Should I visit Lombok or Nikko in the Autumn?

Both Nikko and Lombok during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

Lombok is much warmer than Nikko in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lombok. Lombok usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Nikko. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Also, many travelers come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. In the winter, Lombok is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lombok in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Nikko averages at about 3°C (37°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nikko this time of the year. Lombok usually receives less sunshine than Nikko during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lombok usually receives more rain than Nikko. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lombok or Nikko in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Nikko. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Lombok is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Lombok usually gets less rain in April than Nikko. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to September in Lombok is the dry season. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Lombok