A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Kanazawa for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Hanoi or Kanazawa?

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 Kanazawa 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a cultural, well-preserved, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Kanazawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Kanazawa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hanoi is famous for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Kanazawa is famous for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens.

How is Hanoi different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Hanoi from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Kanazawa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history and you can visit the Kanazawa Castle, the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses, and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area. There are also museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Hanoi and Kanazawa.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hanoi. 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.

Kanazawa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history to the city's cuisine and you'll find many diverse dishes that combine traditional ingredients with international fusion. The cuisine uses a lot of seafood, but you'll also find the one pot meal of Hanton Rice, Oden (hot pot), and Jibu-ni (made with duck and vegetables).

Is Hanoi or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is great for nightlife. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Hanoi for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Hanoi or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

Hanoi has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Many people head to Kanazawa to see the old town. It's fascinating to visit both the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area which has preserved samurai houses that line two canals. You can enter a few of the houses to see the traditional way of life.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Kanazawa?

Hanoi is very popular for shopping. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hanoi. 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.

Kanazawa is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many shopping districts that include department stores, traditional stores, and large markets. This is a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

Is Hanoi or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Both Hanoi and Kanazawa are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hanoi. 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.

Kanazawa offers lots of family activities. Myouryuji Temple is a fun temple for kids where they can play ninja and discover the hidden spaces. When the kids are burned out of history, head to Tedori Fish Land which is a theme park in the area or check out the slides at Kenmin Seaside Park. There's also the Dolls Museum and the beautiful coastline.

Is Hanoi or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Kanazawa are nice 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.

Kanazawa is a good city for couples to visit. The city has markets, museums, and gardens that are fun to explore as a couple. You can visit the Kanazawa Castle or sample one of the many restaurants around town.

Is Hanoi or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Hanoi. 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 Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Hanoi or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Hanoi is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Kanazawa is a good city to visit for students. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

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

Kanazawa is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Kanazawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two main buses that tourists use in town. The Kenrokuen Shuttle goes between the Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Gardens and the Kanazawa Loop Bus runs from Kanazawa Station via the Teramachi area, the Higashi Chaya District, and Omicho Market.

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

Is Hanoi or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Kanazawa is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Kanazawa is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable with some rolling hills. It's possible to walk to Kanazawa Castle from Kanazawa Station in about 35 minutes.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hanoi or Kanazawa to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hanoi than Kanazawa because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kanazawa.

Families should spend more time in Hanoi than Kanazawa. 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 Kanazawa. 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 Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa?

Hanoi is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

In Kanazawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this well-preserved destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hanoi or Kanazawa?

Hanoi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kanazawa. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Kanazawa?

Hanoi is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hanoi, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kanazawa is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kanazawa. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Kanazawa?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Kanazawa. 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 Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Kanazawa?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kanazawa. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Kanazawa, 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 Hanoi or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa in the Summer?

Both Kanazawa and Hanoi during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Kanazawa for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Kanazawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets less rain in July than Kanazawa. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Kanazawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the shopping scene.

Hanoi is much warmer than Kanazawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Kanazawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Kanazawa. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kanazawa this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kanazawa in the winter. In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Kanazawa. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Kanazawa in the Spring?

Both Kanazawa and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Hanoi