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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Nagasaki?

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 Nagasaki. 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 temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a welcoming, interesting, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Nagasaki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Nagasaki?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Nagasaki. Chiang Mai is bigger than Nagasaki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Nagasaki and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Nagasaki is well known for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine.

How is Chiang Mai different from Nagasaki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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

Many visitors head to Nagasaki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Chiang Mai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nagasaki makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

Is Chiang Mai or Nagasaki Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Chiang Mai and Nagasaki.

The nightlife in Chiang Mai has something for everybody. 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.

Nagasaki offers plenty to do in the evening. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagasaki Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Nagasaki does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Nagasaki does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagasaki Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

People visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Nagasaki?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Chiang Mai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Nagasaki is a great destination for shopping. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagasaki Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chiang Mai. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nagasaki. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagasaki Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Chiang Mai makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Chiang Mai, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Nagasaki is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

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

Nagasaki is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Nagasaki is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

Chiang Mai has a few public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagasaki a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Nagasaki are notable when it comes to walkability.

Chiang Mai is somewhat walkable. 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.

Nagasaki is a somewhat walkable place. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

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

Should I spend more time in Nagasaki or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Nagasaki?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Mai and Nagasaki. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Nagasaki. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nagasaki.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki?

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 interesting city of Nagasaki, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Nagasaki?

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 Nagasaki, 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 Nagasaki?

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.

Nagasaki, 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 Nagasaki?

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.

Nagasaki 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Nagasaki?

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

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Nagasaki. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Nagasaki for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally around the same temperature as Nagasaki. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Nagasaki fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Nagasaki during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 197 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Nagasaki. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Nagasaki in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Nagasaki. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Nagasaki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Nagasaki in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Nagasaki fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the autumn, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Nagasaki. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagasaki. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Nagasaki. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Nagasaki in the Winter?

Both Nagasaki and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nagasaki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Nagasaki. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Nagasaki averages at about 7°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Nagasaki during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 112 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Nagasaki. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Nagasaki in the Spring?

Both Nagasaki and Chiang Mai during the spring 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, the spring months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the activities around the city.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Nagasaki. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Nagasaki fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Nagasaki. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 174 hours of full sun.

Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Nagasaki. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Nagasaki and Chiang Mai