A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Sendai for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Da Nang or Sendai?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Sendai? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and museums.

Sendai

Sendai is a cosmopolitan, lively, and high energy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Da Nang and Sendai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Sendai?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sendai than Da Nang. Sendai is bigger than Da Nang, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sendai is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Da Nang is more popular for its food and resorts. Sendai is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for the Tanabata Festival, which is the largest of its kind and held every August. Also, Sendai is famous for the statue of Lord Masamune. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Sendai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Sendai?

Sendai is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Sendai offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city grew up as a castle town, and today the castle ruins are a popular tourist destination. A park surrounds the area, Aobayama Park, and while only the stonewalls remain, you can visit the Sendai City Museum in the park as well. Zuihoden Temple is another landmark worth visiting, as is the AER observation terrace.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Is the Food Better in Da Nang or Sendai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Da Nang has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sendai area. There are a number of local specialties in the area and if you're an adventurous eater, then this is your place. Many of the dishes are influenced by the city's proximity to the ocean. Make sure you try the harako-meshi (rice with fish eggs), sea squirts, and sashimi. Another local favorite is beef tongue.

Is Da Nang or Sendai Better for Nightlife?

Both Da Nang and Sendai are very good when it comes to partying.

Da Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Sendai has a large number of nightlife venues. Head to Kokubuncho for the best nightlife scene in the area. This downtown neighborhood is filled with bars, clubs, and karaoke that come alive in the evening. For live music, check out Rensa, which is one of the city's largest live music venues.

Is Da Nang or Sendai Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sendai is not a resort destination.

Da Nang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Sendai is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Sendai Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Da Nang and Sendai are notable choices.

Da Nang is a good option for a beach vacation. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Many people head to Sendai to enjoy the beach. There are a number of beaches in the area, but for the best options you'll want to head a bit out of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Sendai?

Sendai is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Sendai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find shopping arcades in the downtown area like Ichibancho, which is one of the most popular shopping districts in the city. If you head out of town towards the suburbs, you'll find malls and other outlet stores.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Sendai Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Da Nang or Sendai.

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sendai. The city has a number of green spaces that kids will enjoy including parks and playgrounds. There are also kid-focused museums like the Anpanman Children's Museum and the 3M Sendai City Science Museum. If the young ones really need a break from the history, you can check out Yagiyama Beny Land.

Is Da Nang or Sendai Better for Couples?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Sendai is a good city for couples to visit. The city boasts beautiful temples as well as nice natural areas, parks, and gardens. If you have time to get out of town, Okama is a volcanic lake that is one of the most beautiful spots in the region, and well worth the excursion.

Is Da Nang or Sendai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Da Nang and Sendai are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Da Nang. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Sendai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around the town and many of the activities are free as they involve strolling through parks or wandering down shopping streets.

Is Da Nang or Sendai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sendai is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Sendai can get you around easily. There are two subway lines the north-south Namboku Line and the east-west Tozai Line. These lines cross at Sendai Station.

Da Nang has some public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Is Da Nang or Sendai a more walkable city?

Sendai is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Sendai is a very walkable city. There are many parts of the city that are walkable, especially around Sendai Station as well as in the Chuo-dori arcade and the the Kokubuncho neighborhood.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Sendai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sendai or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Sendai?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Da Nang and Sendai. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sendai than in Da Nang. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Da Nang, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sendai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sendai than Da Nang 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 Sendai.

One day in Da Nang or Sendai?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Sendai, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Da Nang or Sendai?

Da Nang 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.

In Sendai, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sendai has to offer.

Five days in Da Nang or Sendai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Da Nang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Sendai is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Da Nang or Sendai?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Da Nang. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sendai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sendai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Sendai?

Sendai has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Da Nang. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang and Sendai, 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 Da Nang or Sendai?

Sendai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Da Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Da Nang or Sendai in the Summer?

Both Sendai and Da Nang during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sendai in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Da Nang is a little warmer than Sendai in the summer. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Sendai fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Da Nang. In the summer, Da Nang often gets more sunshine than Sendai. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sendai receives 124 hours of full sun.

Sendai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Da Nang usually gets less rain in July than Sendai. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year. January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Sendai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Sendai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sendai for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Da Nang is much warmer than Sendai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Da Nang in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Sendai averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Da Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sendai during autumn. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Sendai receives 149 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sendai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Sendai. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Sendai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Sendai. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Sendai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Sendai can be very cold. In January, Da Nang is generally much warmer than Sendai. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 22°C (71°F), and Sendai fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Da Nang often gets less sunshine than Sendai. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sendai receives 149 hours of full sun.

Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the winter. Da Nang usually gets more rain in January than Sendai. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Da Nang or Sendai in the Spring?

Both Sendai and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Sendai this time of year.

Da Nang is much warmer than Sendai in the spring. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Sendai fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually receives more sunshine than Sendai during spring. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Sendai receives 188 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Sendai. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sendai receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sendai and Da Nang