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

Should you visit Hanoi or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto 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 cultural, historical, and fascinating city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a fascinating, traditional, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Kyoto?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Kyoto, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hanoi is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is more popular for its impressive beauty. Hanoi is well known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Hanoi different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the world-class sights and museums in both Hanoi and Kyoto.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Hanoi and Kyoto.

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.

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Hanoi or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Hanoi know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Hanoi or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Both Hanoi and Kyoto have world-class historic old towns worth visiting.

The old town of Hanoi is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Kyoto offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Kyoto?

Hanoi is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Hanoi or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kyoto is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Hanoi or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Kyoto is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Hanoi is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Hanoi or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is renowned for backpackers. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Hanoi or Kyoto Better for Students?

Hanoi and Kyoto are great places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Hanoi. 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.

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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

Kyoto is well known for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Kyoto can get you around easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

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 Kyoto a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Kyoto on foot is easy. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Kyoto?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Kyoto 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 Kyoto?

Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

In Kyoto, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fascinating destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This city 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Kyoto?

Hanoi is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Kyoto is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kyoto. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Kyoto?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful big city of Hanoi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Hanoi. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

Hanoi is around the same temperature as Kyoto in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In July, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Should I visit Hanoi or Kyoto in the Autumn?

Both Kyoto and Hanoi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hanoi is a little warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Kyoto averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Kyoto 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 October than Kyoto. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Kyoto in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Kyoto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Kyoto in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Kyoto. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Hanoi is much warmer than Kyoto in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hanoi usually gets less rain in April than Kyoto. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Hanoi