A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nikko vs. Gold Coast for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nikko or Gold Coast?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nikko and Gold Coast can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nikko

Nikko is a relaxing, peaceful, and natural town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking. See Nikko travel costs.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a glamourous, vibrant, and colorful coastline. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Gold Coast travel costs.

Nikko and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Gold Coast?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gold Coast than Nikko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gold Coast is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Nikko and is known for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. Also, Gold Coast is famous for the long sandy beaches. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Nikko different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nikko or Gold Coast?

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Nikko has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Gold Coast specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

Is the Food Better in Nikko or Gold Coast? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Nikko and Gold Coast offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Gold Coast. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Gold Coast is a world class party destination. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

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 Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

Gold Coast is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gold Coast is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Gold Coast is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

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

Gold Coast is considered to be a world-class beach destination. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Gold Coast 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.

Gold Coast does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Gold Coast are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. 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.

Gold Coast is a popular spot for hiking. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

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

Is Nikko or Gold Coast More Beautiful?

Nikko is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Gold Coast is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Gold Coast is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Families?

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Gold Coast is an extremely popular coastline to visit for families. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Both Nikko and Gold Coast are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nikko is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Gold Coast is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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

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

Nikko and Gold Coast both offer excellent public transit to get you around.

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.

The public transit in Gold Coast can get you around easily. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

Is Nikko or Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Nikko is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for its walkability.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. 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.

Gold Coast is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Gold Coast Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Gold Coast?

Both Nikko and Gold Coast have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gold Coast than in Nikko. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 3-7 days is enough time in Gold Coast.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast.

One day in Nikko or Gold Coast?

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nikko, one day is sufficent for most.

In Gold Coast, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this colorful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This coastline 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.

A weekend in Nikko or Gold Coast?

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gold Coast. 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.

Five days in Nikko or Gold Coast?

Nikko, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gold Coast is a fun place to experience. In Gold Coast, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Nikko or Gold Coast?

Nikko is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Gold Coast, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this fun-filled destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Australia, and The Best Photography Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Nikko and Gold Coast, we can see that Gold Coast is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Nikko is in Asia and Gold Coast is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Gold Coast, 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 Nikko or Gold Coast?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Gold Coast is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Nikko has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Nikko or Gold Coast in the Summer?

Both Gold Coast and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Gold Coast in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nikko is generally around the same temperature as Gold Coastin January. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 25°C (77°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Gold Coast. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gold Coastin January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

Both Gold Coast and Nikko during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nikko in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

Nikko is cooler than Gold Coast in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

In Gold Coast, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin April. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 214 hours of full sun.

Gold Coast gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets more rain in October than Gold Coastin April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Gold Coast in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Gold Coast. Most visitors come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nikko can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Nikko is much colder than Gold Coast. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nikko in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gold Coast this time of the year. In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nikko usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gold Coast during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Gold Coastin July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nikko or Gold Coast in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Gold Coast. The spring months attract visitors to Nikko because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Gold Coast this time of year.

In April, Nikko is generally much colder than Gold Coastin October. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 13°C (55°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. In the spring, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin October. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 259 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gold Coast. Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Gold Coastin October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Nikko