A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Kanazawa for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

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 Chiang Mai and Kanazawa. 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.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a welcoming, natural, and temple-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a historic, cultural, and well-preserved city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Kanazawa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Kanazawa and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Kanazawa is popular for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens.

How is Chiang Mai different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Chiang Mai is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Chiang Mai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Kanazawa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history and you can visit the Kanazawa Castle, the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses, and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area. There are also museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Chiang Mai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kanazawa. There's a long history to the city's cuisine and you'll find many diverse dishes that combine traditional ingredients with international fusion. The cuisine uses a lot of seafood, but you'll also find the one pot meal of Hanton Rice, Oden (hot pot), and Jibu-ni (made with duck and vegetables).

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is great for nightlife. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Chiang Mai for the nightlife scene. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is great for its historic old town. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Chiang Mai. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Many people head to Kanazawa to see the old town. It's fascinating to visit both the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area which has preserved samurai houses that line two canals. You can enter a few of the houses to see the traditional way of life.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is very popular for hiking. However, Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Chiang Mai is very popular for shopping. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

Kanazawa is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many shopping districts that include department stores, traditional stores, and large markets. This is a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly destination. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

Kanazawa is a family-friendly place to visit. Myouryuji Temple is a fun temple for kids where they can play ninja and discover the hidden spaces. When the kids are burned out of history, head to Tedori Fish Land which is a theme park in the area or check out the slides at Kenmin Seaside Park. There's also the Dolls Museum and the beautiful coastline.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is great for romance. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

Kanazawa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has markets, museums, and gardens that are fun to explore as a couple. You can visit the Kanazawa Castle or sample one of the many restaurants around town.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Chiang Mai. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Kanazawa is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Kanazawa. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Mai and Kanazawa both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Chiang Mai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Kanazawa has a few public transit options. There are two main buses that tourists use in town. The Kenrokuen Shuttle goes between the Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Gardens and the Kanazawa Loop Bus runs from Kanazawa Station via the Teramachi area, the Higashi Chaya District, and Omicho Market.

Is Chiang Mai or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Kanazawa is a great city for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Kanazawa is very walkable. The city is relatively walkable with some rolling hills. It's possible to walk to Kanazawa Castle from Kanazawa Station in about 35 minutes.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable place. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Mai than Kanazawa because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kanazawa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Kanazawa 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 Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the well-preserved city of Kanazawa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kanazawa, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kanazawa, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kanazawa, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Kanazawa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kanazawa. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Kanazawa, 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 Chiang Mai or Kanazawa?

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

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Kanazawa in the Summer?

Both Kanazawa and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Kanazawa in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Kanazawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Kanazawa during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

Both Kanazawa and Chiang Mai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kanazawa for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 155 hours of full sun.

Kanazawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in October than Kanazawa. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Kanazawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Kanazawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kanazawa can be very cold. In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Kanazawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Kanazawa. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Kanazawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Kanazawa. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Chiang Mai