A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Shiretoko National Park for Backpackers, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

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 Shiretoko National Park 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 colorful, cultural, and historical city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Hanoi and Shiretoko National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi. Although Hanoi and Shiretoko National Park are both popular with visitors, Hanoi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hanoi is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Shiretoko National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hanoi is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Shiretoko National Park is popular for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Hanoi different from Shiretoko National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shiretoko National Park 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 Shiretoko National Park?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Hanoi on the map. 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 to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.


Is the Food Better in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Dining out in Hanoi is an experience not to be missed. 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.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Hanoi offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Shiretoko National Park does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Hanoi is revered around 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.

Shiretoko National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park Better for Hiking?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Around Shiretoko National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hanoi is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park Better for Families?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Both Hanoi and Shiretoko National Park are good 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.

Shiretoko National Park offers lots of family activities. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.


Is Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park Better for Couples?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Shiretoko National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

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 Shiretoko National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hanoi is a very popular city to visit 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.

Shiretoko National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

Is Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park Better for Students?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a well-known place for students. However, Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.

Hanoi is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.


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

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Is Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park a more walkable city?

Hanoi
Shiretoko National Park

Hanoi and Shiretoko National Park both are good when exploring on foot.

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.

Shiretoko National Park is a somewhat walkable city. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shiretoko National Park or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hanoi due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 3-4 days is enough time in Shiretoko National Park.

Families should spend more time in Hanoi than Shiretoko National Park. 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 Shiretoko National Park. 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 Shiretoko National Park 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.


  • How many days in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hanoi 3-5 
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4

One day in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

People visit Hanoi because there is so much to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Shiretoko National Park, many people enjoy the that this national park destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This remote,natural,scenic,pristine 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 Shiretoko National Park?

Hanoi is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shiretoko National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Shiretoko National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Shiretoko National Park. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Shiretoko National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find around the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Shiretoko National Park or Hanoi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hanoi is $49, while the average daily cost in Shiretoko National Park is $74. 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 Hanoi and Shiretoko National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hanoi $25
    Shiretoko National Park $33
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hanoi $50
    Shiretoko National Park $66
Compare Hotels in Hanoi and Shiretoko National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park? 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 Hanoi


Hotels in Shiretoko National Park


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: Hanoi Hotel Prices and Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hanoi $6.89
    Shiretoko National Park $26
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hanoi

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


  • Taxi to Bus Station
    $1.20
  • Shuttle Bus From Airport (for Two)
    $3.20
  • Local Bus Ride (for Two)
    $0.40
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $1.36
  • Short Motorbike Ride (10 Minutes)
    $0.80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hanoi

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hanoi:

  • Hanoi Private Car Airport Transfer To Hotel: $7.18
  • Noi Bai Airport transfer to Hanoi Center and more: $8.00
  • Noi Bai International Airport Private Transfer: $8.21
  • Hanoi City Center to Noi Bai Airport - Private Transfer: $8.43
  • Noi Bai Airport Transfer Service: $8.54
  • Hanoi Airport Departure Shared Transfer: $10
  • Private Noi Bai International Airport Transfer: $11
  • One Way Transfer From hotel to airport or vice versal: $13
  • Hanoi Airport Transfer: $13
  • HaNoi City to Noi Bai Airport transfer by private car: $13
  • Hanoi Airport: Private Transfer: $14
  • Private Noi Bai International Airport Transfer: $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shiretoko National Park and Hanoi 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
    Hanoi $13
    Shiretoko National Park $25
Typical Food Prices in Hanoi

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


  • High End Dinner (for Two)
    $12
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $4.39
  • Bowl of Pho
    $0.80
  • Italian Dinner (for Food)
    $6.19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hanoi

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

  • Street Food Tour (Group/Individual): $5.13
  • (Group/Individual) HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR : $5.13
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour Visit Train Street Add Old Quarter: $19
  • Hanoi Walking Street Food Tour: $20
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour: $22
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour: $23
  • Ngon ngon & Authentic Hanoi Food Tour: $23
  • Mad Monkey Hoi An Cooking Class & Bamboo Boats: $23
  • Vietnamese Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $24
  • Vietnamese Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $24
  • Walking Street Food Tour Small Group with Local Guide: $24
  • Guided Half-Day Hanoi Street Food Tour: $25

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hanoi $8.51
    Shiretoko National Park $15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hanoi

Here are a few typical costs in Hanoi for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Puppet Theater
    $1.60
  • The Hanoi Hilton Entrance
    $1.60
  • National History Museum
    $1.60
  • Puppet Theater Ticket
    $2.80

Tours and Activities in Hanoi

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

  • Bus Ticket Cat Ba - Hanoi ( Bus+ Ferry ) - Best Selling: $0.02
  • Hanoi Old Quarter Half-day Private Walking Tour : $5.00
  • Private Walking City Tour in Hanoi : $5.00
  • Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Hanoi Street Food Experience: $5.00
  • Half-day Private Walking Tour of Hanoi's Old Quarter: $5.00
  • Sightseeing Walking Tour in Hanoi: $5.00
  • Street Food Walking Tour in Hanoi: $5.00
  • Private Walking Tour of Hanoi City: $5.00
  • Craft Village Tour (Quang Phu Cau, Bat Trang,...): $5.13
  • Early Morning Tour | Free Private Tour Guide: $5.13
  • Culture Exchange with Free Private Tour Guide: $5.13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hanoi $7.70
    Shiretoko National Park $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Hanoi

Also in Hanoi, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hanoi Beer and Brewery Tour: $48
  • Half-Day Guided Tour Australian Beef with Wine Tasting & Rickshaw in Hanoi: $106


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



When is the best time to visit Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park?

Shiretoko National Park 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 Shiretoko National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Shiretoko National Park. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Shiretoko National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hanoi is much warmer than Shiretoko National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hanoi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Shiretoko National Park averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Shiretoko National Park. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hanoi 29°C (84°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Shiretoko National Park. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shiretoko National Park this time of year.

In October, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Shiretoko National Park. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 25°C (77°F), and Shiretoko National Park fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Shiretoko National Park. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hanoi 25°C (77°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park in the Winter?

Both Shiretoko National Park and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shiretoko National Park. Hanoi is much warmer than Shiretoko National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Shiretoko National Park fluctuates around -6°C (20°F).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Shiretoko National Park. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hanoi 17°C (63°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park -6°C (20°F)

Should I visit Hanoi or Shiretoko National Park in the Spring?

Both Shiretoko National Park and Hanoi during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Shiretoko National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Shiretoko National Park can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Hanoi is much warmer than Shiretoko National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hanoi in April average around 24°C (75°F), and Shiretoko National Park averages at about 5°C (40°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Shiretoko National Park. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Shiretoko National Park receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hanoi 24°C (75°F) 
    Shiretoko National Park 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Shiretoko National Park and Hanoi

Hanoi Shiretoko National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 17°C (63°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) -6°C (20°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 17°C (63°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) -7°C (19°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 50 mm (2 in) -3°C (28°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 24°C (75°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 28°C (82°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 29°C (84°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 210 mm (8.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 200 mm (7.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Oct 25°C (77°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 22°C (72°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (38°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 18°C (64°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) -2°C (28°F) 51 mm (2 in)