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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Nagoya?

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 Nagoya. 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.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-the-radar, under-rated, and often overlooked city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Nagoya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Nagoya?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Nagoya. While Nagoya is larger than Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Nagoya 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. Nagoya is well known for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry.

How is Chiang Mai different from Nagoya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Nagoya 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 Nagoya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

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

Foodies will find both Chiang Mai and Nagoya both to be amazing destinations.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

For foodies, Nagoya is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagoya Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Nagoya offers plenty to do in the evening. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagoya Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Nagoya 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.

Nagoya does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagoya Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Nagoya?

Chiang Mai is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagoya Better for Families?

Nagoya is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Nagoya is very family-friendly. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagoya Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

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

Chiang Mai is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Chiang Mai or Nagoya Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Nagoya. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Nagoya 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 Nagoya is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

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 Nagoya a more walkable city?

Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is very walkable. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

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 Nagoya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagoya or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Nagoya?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Nagoya. 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 Nagoya 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 Nagoya?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the often overlooked city of Nagoya, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Nagoya?

Chiang Mai 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.

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

Five days in Chiang Mai or Nagoya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nagoya, 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 Nagoya?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Nagoya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Luxury Tours to Japan, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Nagoya?

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

Nagoya 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 Nagoya in the Summer?

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

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Chiang Mai usually receives less sunshine than Nagoya during summer. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 170 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nagoya 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 Nagoya. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 213 mm (8.4 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 Nagoya in the Autumn?

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

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Nagoya in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Nagoya fluctuates around 18°C (64°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 Nagoya. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagoya. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Nagoya. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 114 mm (4.5 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 Nagoya in the Winter?

Both Nagoya 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 Nagoya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nagoya can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Nagoya. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Nagoya averages at about 4°C (40°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Nagoya during winter. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Nagoya in the Spring?

Both Nagoya 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 Nagoya 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 Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Nagoya. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 189 hours of full sun.

Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Nagoya. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Nagoya and Chiang Mai