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

Should you visit Lombok or Sapporo?

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 Sapporo. 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. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Lombok travel costs.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a laid-back, park-filled, and snowy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sapporo travel costs.

Lombok and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Sapporo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sapporo. Although Lombok and Sapporo are both popular with visitors, Sapporo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sapporo is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities, while Lombok is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lombok is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Sapporo is popular for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. It is also home to Odori Park.

How is Lombok different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Sapporo is great for skiing. However, Lombok is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Sapporo. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Lombok is not a skiing destination.

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

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

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 Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lombok and Sapporo 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 Sapporo is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Sapporo 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 Sapporo for the nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

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 Sapporo Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Beaches?

Lombok is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a great island for hiking. However, Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

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.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Sapporo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lombok and Sapporo both offer plenty of very good spots.

Lombok is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sapporo. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Is Lombok or Sapporo More Beautiful?

Lombok is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Lombok is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Lombok is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Sapporo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lombok, as it is a very popular island for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Lombok or Sapporo Better for Students?

Sapporo is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lombok is not popular with students.

Many students visit Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Lombok is not popular with students.

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

Sapporo 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 Sapporo can get you around easily. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

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 Sapporo a more walkable city?

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

Sapporo is a very walkable city. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

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 Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lombok and Sapporo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than in Sapporo. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sapporo.

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

In Lombok, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Sapporo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Sapporo?

In Lombok, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Sapporo 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 Sapporo?

Lombok is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sapporo. 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 Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. In Lombok, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one week is probably not enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the park-filled big city of Sapporo. This 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Sapporo, we can see that Sapporo 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 Sapporo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sapporo 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 Sapporo Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Sapporo?

Sapporo 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 Sapporo in the Summer?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lombok is a little warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lombok in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Sapporo averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Lombok is May to September.

Should I visit Lombok or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo 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. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year.

In October, Lombok is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 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 Sapporo in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Sapporo. Lombok is much warmer than Sapporo in the winter. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Sapporo fluctuates around -5°C (24°F).

Lombok usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sapporo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Lombok usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lombok or Sapporo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Sapporo. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Sapporo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Lombok is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lombok in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Sapporo averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Lombok usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 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 Sapporo and Lombok