A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Dewa Sanzan for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hanoi and Dewa Sanzan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a high energy, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a remote, traditional, and religious religious site. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums.

Hanoi and Dewa Sanzan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hanoi is better known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dewa Sanzan is more popular for its hiking. Hanoi is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Hanoi different from Dewa Sanzan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Hanoi are world-renowned. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dewa Sanzan. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

Is the Food Better in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Hanoi has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Hanoi has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Dewa Sanzan does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Hanoi offers plenty to see. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

Dewa Sanzan does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for Hiking?

Dewa Sanzan is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Hanoi draws large crowds to its stores. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for Families?

Hanoi is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Hanoi is a family-friendly city. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly city. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Dewa Sanzan are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hanoi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Dewa Sanzan is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hanoi is extremely popular for backpackers. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for Students?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is not popular with students.

Hanoi is very popular with students. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

Dewa Sanzan is not popular with students.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hanoi and Dewa Sanzan.

Public transit is generally limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Is Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan a more walkable city?

Hanoi is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dewa Sanzan or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hanoi and Dewa Sanzan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi than in Dewa Sanzan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dewa Sanzan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Dewa Sanzan 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 Hanoi.

One day in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Hanoi is a high energy city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Dewa Sanzan, many people enjoy the museums that this traditional destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This religious site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Hanoi is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Hanoi is a historical city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Dewa Sanzan is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hanoi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums around the sacred destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Vietnam, The Best G Adventures Tours to Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan?

Dewa Sanzan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hanoi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Dewa Sanzan. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking during these months.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite rainy in Dewa Sanzan. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hanoi usually gets more rain in July than Dewa Sanzan. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan in the Autumn?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the hiking trails.

In the autumn, Hanoi is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Dewa Sanzan averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dewa Sanzan. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In October, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Dewa Sanzan. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April.

Should I visit Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan in the Winter?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Hanoi during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dewa Sanzan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dewa Sanzan in the winter. In January, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around -1°C (30°F).

Dewa Sanzan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Dewa Sanzan. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Dewa Sanzan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Dewa Sanzan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round.

Hanoi is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Hanoi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dewa Sanzan. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Typical Weather for Dewa Sanzan and Hanoi