A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hat Yai vs. Nagano for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Hat Yai or Nagano?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hat Yai and Nagano 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.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a festive, colorful, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nagano

Nagano is a alpine, scenic, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Hat Yai and Nagano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Nagano?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nagano than Hat Yai, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Nagano is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hat Yai is known for its food and shopping. Nagano is more touristy than Hat Yai and is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also home to Zenko-ji Temple. Hat Yai is popular for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Hat Yai different from Nagano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Skiing?

Nagano is notable for snow skiing. However, Hat Yai is not a skiing destination.

Nagano is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Hat Yai is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hat Yai or Nagano?

Nagano is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Is the Food Better in Hat Yai or Nagano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hat Yai is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Hat Yai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Dining out in Nagano is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Nagano has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Hat Yai is not a resort destination.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Hat Yai does not have a historic old town.

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Hat Yai does not have a historic old town.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Hiking?

Nagano is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Nagano is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Nagano?

Hat Yai is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Hat Yai is well-known for its shopping. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Families?

Nagano is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Nagano is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Couples?

Nagano is a city with good options for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagano is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nagano is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Students?

Nagano is a city with good options for students. However, Hat Yai is not popular with students.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Hat Yai is not popular with students.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagano is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Hat Yai or Nagano a more walkable city?

Nagano is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its walkability.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Hat Yai Worth Visiting? and Is Nagano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagano or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Nagano?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hat Yai and Nagano. In our opinion, Nagano has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nagano than Hat Yai. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagano than Hat Yai 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 Nagano.

One day in Hat Yai or Nagano?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hat Yai. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Nagano, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Hat Yai or Nagano?

Hat Yai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Nagano, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer.

Five days in Hat Yai or Nagano?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hat Yai. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nagano is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hat Yai or Nagano?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the festive destination of Hat Yai. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Nagano. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hat Yai or Nagano?

Nagano has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Hat Yai. When comparing the sizes of Hat Yai and Nagano, 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 Hat Yai or Nagano?

Nagano has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hat Yai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Nagano in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hat Yai as well as Nagano. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nagano this time of year.

In July, Hat Yai is generally a little warmer than Nagano. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 29°C (83°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In the summer, Hat Yai often gets more sunshine than Nagano. Hat Yai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 136 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hat Yai usually gets less rain in July than Nagano. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Nagano in the Autumn?

Both Nagano and Hat Yai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Nagano for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hat Yai is much warmer than Nagano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Nagano fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Nagano during autumn. Hat Yai gets 182 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. In October, Hat Yai usually receives more rain than Nagano. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 227 mm (9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Hat Yai is May to December.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Nagano in the Winter?

Both Nagano and Hat Yai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nagano in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nagano can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Hat Yai is much warmer than Nagano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hat Yai in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Nagano averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In Nagano, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hat Yai. In the winter, Hat Yai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nagano. Hat Yai gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 212 hours of full sun.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets less rain in January than Nagano. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Hat Yai.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Nagano in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hat Yai and Nagano. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Hat Yai is generally much warmer than Nagano. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 30°C (85°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Hat Yai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Nagano during spring. Hat Yai gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Nagano. Hat Yai gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season. Also, May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai.

Typical Weather for Nagano and Hat Yai