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

Should you visit Hanoi or Yokohama?

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 Yokohama 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a laid-back, diverse, and bright city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Yokohama: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Yokohama?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Yokohama. While Yokohama is larger than Hanoi, Hanoi has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Hanoi is more touristy than Yokohama and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Yokohama is famous for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Hanoi different from Yokohama?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Hanoi that are not to be missed. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Yokohama. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Hanoi and Yokohama.

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.

Yokohama has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Is Hanoi or Yokohama Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Hanoi and Yokohama.

Hanoi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Yokohama for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is Hanoi or Yokohama Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is terrific for its historic old town. However, Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Hanoi has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Yokohama?

Hanoi is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Hanoi is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Hanoi or Yokohama Better for Families?

Yokohama is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Yokohama is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

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 Yokohama Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

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 Yokohama Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Hanoi is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Hanoi or Yokohama Better for Students?

Hanoi is well known for students. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

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

Yokohama 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 Yokohama can get you around easily. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

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 Yokohama a more walkable city?

Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is a very walkable city. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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 Yokohama Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yokohama or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Yokohama?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hanoi or Yokohama to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hanoi than Yokohama 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 Yokohama.

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

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

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

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 Yokohama, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse big city 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 Yokohama?

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 Yokohama. 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 Yokohama?

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.

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

A week in Hanoi or Yokohama?

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 colorful big city of Yokohama. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Yokohama?

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

Yokohama 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 Yokohama in the Summer?

Both Yokohama 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 summer months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Yokohama. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Should I visit Hanoi or Yokohama in the Autumn?

Both Yokohama 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Yokohama in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Yokohama fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Yokohama 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 Yokohama. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Yokohama in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Yokohama. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Yokohama averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Yokohama. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Yokohama in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Yokohama. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Yokohama in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Yokohama. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hanoi usually gets less rain in April than Yokohama. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 145 mm (5.7 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 Yokohama and Hanoi