A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hangzhou vs. Nagoya for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Hangzhou 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 Hangzhou 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.

Where Should I go: Hangzhou or Nagoya?

Hangzhou

Hangzhou is a city in Eastern China, about an hour by train from Shanghai, renowned for its historic relics and natural beauty. Each year it attracts more than 20 million tourists who come to see what the city has to offer. Set amongst the natural scenery of lakes and mountains, Hangzhou is modern city that coexists with the old. Historic pagodas and cultural sites built around the central lake sit like they belong amidst the skyscrapers and bustling markets of today.

Nagoya

Nagoya is Japan's fourth-largest city after Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka, as well as one of the nation's major economic centers, being the home of auto giants like Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi Motors. With a history that dates back to samurai and ninja, Nagoya has evolved over the years into a trade center and hub for automobile and aircraft manufacturing. And it's also home to the Legoland resort!

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to China, The Best Sightseeing Tours in China, The Best Luxury Tours to Japan, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Nagoya or Hangzhou?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hangzhou Prices
    China Prices
    Nagoya Prices
    Japan Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hangzhou $80
    Nagoya $113

The average daily cost (per person) in Hangzhou is $80, while the average daily cost in Nagoya is $113. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hangzhou and Nagoya in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hangzhou $24
    Nagoya $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hangzhou $48
    Nagoya $96
Compare Hotels in Hangzhou and Nagoya

Looking for a hotel in Hangzhou or Nagoya? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hangzhou


Hotels in Nagoya


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nagoya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hangzhou $8.24
    Nagoya $12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hangzhou

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hangzhou:


  • Local Bus for Two
    $0.56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hangzhou

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hangzhou:

  • [Airport Transfer] Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport ⇔ Hangzhou City Transfer ☆ High reputation for service! <Charter charter>: $29
  • Wuzhen Water Town Self-Guided Tour with Private Transfer from Hangzhou : $87
  • VIP Seated Enduring Memories of Hangzhou Show with Private Transfer: $83
  • Transfer from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport to City Center: $75
  • Skip the Line: Impression West Lake Show Ticket with Pick-up Transfer: $72
  • Private Transfer to Yiwu City from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer to Wuzhen Water Town from Hangzhou: $88
  • Private Transfer to Suzhou City from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer to Suzhou City from Hangzhou: $113
  • Private Transfer to Shanghai Pudong Airport from Hangzhou: $129
  • Private Transfer to Mogan Mountian from Hangzhou: $85
  • Private Transfer to Impression West Lake show in Hangzhou: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagoya

Also for Nagoya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Japan Railway Station Shared Departure Transfer : Nagoya City to Nagoya Station: $71
  • Nagoya Private Transfer To or From Suzuka Service: $292
  • Nagoya to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO) - Departure Private Transfer: $151
  • Nagoya to Nagoya Int Airport NGO, Departure Private Transfer: $91
  • Private Departure Transfer Nagoya City to Chubu Centrair International Airport: $208
  • Private Transfer - Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO): $285
  • Private Transfer - Nagoya Int Airport (NGO) to Nagoya Cruise Port: $201
  • Private Transfer between Chubu Centrair Int'l Airport and Nagoya: $296
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Airport (NGO) to Toyama Port: $235
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Airport (NGO): $201
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya City Hotels: $126
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya hotels: $139

Is it cheaper to fly into Hangzhou or Nagoya?

Prices for flights to both Nagoya and Hangzhou change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hangzhou $31
    Nagoya $49
Typical Food Prices in Hangzhou

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hangzhou:


  • Breakfast Pastries
    $2.38
  • Pizza Hut Lunch
    $11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hangzhou

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hangzhou.

  • All Inclusive Night Tour with Impression West Lake Show VIP Ticket and Dinner: $117
  • Hangzhou One Day Local Food Tour: $124
  • Private Amazing Hangzhou Airport Layover Tour with Lunch or Dinner Option : $170
  • Xitang Water Town Private Night Tour from Hangzhou with Dinner: $203

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nagoya Night Bar & Food Tour with Locals 【Private Tour】: $59
  • Osu Kannon Temple & Street Food Tour in Nagoya's Osu District: $83
  • Specialties of Nagoya Food Tour: $159
  • Traditional Ukai Watching Private Tour from Nagoya With Dinner: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hangzhou $20
    Nagoya $13

Tours and Activities in Hangzhou

Here are a few actual costs in Hangzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • West Lake Private Tour with Boat Ride and Enduring Memories Night Show VIP Seat: $242
  • 1-day Village Tea Picking, Roasting & Serving Guided Private Tour from Hangzhou : $244
  • 2-Day Huangshan Mountain Sunset Climb & Sunrise Camp Guided Tour from Hangzhou : $162
  • 4-Hour Hangzhou City Private Customized Tour with Options: $113
  • 4-Hour Hangzhou Highlights Tour of Lingyin Temple and West Lake: $188
  • 4-Hour Hangzhou Summit and Former Residence of Xueyan Hu Private Tour: $141
  • 7 hours Hangzhou Tour Itinerary: $219
  • All Inclusive Tour of Lingyin Temple and Pagoda of Six Harmonies: $199
  • Amazing Landmarks Hangzhou Private Day Tour: $225
  • Authentic Hangzhou Longjing Tea Culture Experience Tour : $53
  • Best Price: Impression West Lake Show Ticket: $59
  • Best of A Comprehensive Tour of the City's Top Sights: $153

Tours and Activities in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ramen Making Experience: $38
  • Experience Being a Shinto Priest or Shrine Maiden at NAGOYA: $45
  • English-Guided Jogging Tour of the City (2 hours): $50
  • Shirakawago and Takayama Bus Tour from Nagoya: $58
  • Hida Takayama & Shirakawa-go Bus Tour w/Optional Lunch: $59
  • Shiragawa-go, Hida Takayama UNESCO Full-Day Tour from Nagoya: $61
  • Nagoya Castle Private Guided Tour: $64
  • Gujo, Hida Takayama, and Shirakawa-go Day Tour from Nagoya: $65
  • Shirakawa-go + Hida Takayama Day Tour from Nagoya Station: $66
  • Nagoya Tour in Inuyama Castle, Ena George, Magome and Tsumagojuku: $68
  • Private Japanese Martial Arts and Samurai Experience in Gifu: $68
  • Legoland Resort ticket in Japan : $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hangzhou $10
    Nagoya $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Nagoya

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nagoya:

  • The Nagoya Restaurant and Bar Crawl: $40


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hangzhou and Nagoya, we can see that Nagoya is more expensive. And not only is Hangzhou much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hangzhou would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hangzhou 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 Hangzhou.

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


Which is Bigger, Hangzhou or Nagoya?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Hangzhou. When comparing the sizes of Hangzhou 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 Hangzhou or Nagoya?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hangzhou or Nagoya in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hangzhou as well as Nagoya. Also, many travelers come to Nagoya for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hangzhou is around the same temperature as Nagoya. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hangzhou in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Nagoya averages at about 27°C (80°F).

It's quite rainy in Nagoya. Hangzhou receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hangzhou usually gets less rain in July than Nagoya. Hangzhou gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hangzhou 29°C (85°F) 
    Nagoya 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Hangzhou or Nagoya in the Autumn?

Both Nagoya and Hangzhou are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Nagoya in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Hangzhou is generally around the same temperature as Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Hangzhou average around 19°C (66°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. In October, Hangzhou usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Hangzhou gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hangzhou 19°C (66°F) 
    Nagoya 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Hangzhou or Nagoya in the Winter?

Both Nagoya and Hangzhou during the winter are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nagoya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nagoya can be very cold during winter. Hangzhou can get quite cold in the winter. Hangzhou is around the same temperature as Nagoya in the winter. The daily temperature in Hangzhou averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Nagoya fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Hangzhou usually gets more rain in January than Nagoya. Hangzhou gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hangzhou 5°C (41°F) 
    Nagoya 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Hangzhou or Nagoya in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hangzhou and Nagoya. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Hangzhou is a little warmer than Nagoya. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hangzhou in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Nagoya averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Nagoya receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hangzhou gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Hangzhou usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Hangzhou gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hangzhou 16°C (61°F) 
    Nagoya 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Nagoya and Hangzhou

Hangzhou Nagoya
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 21°C (70°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 157 mm (6.2 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 185 mm (7.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 213 mm (8.4 in)
Jul 29°C (85°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 27°C (80°F) 213 mm (8.4 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 24°C (75°F) 204 mm (8 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)