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

Should you visit Hue 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 Hue 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.

Hue

Hue is a authentic, ancient, and imperial city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Hue travel costs.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a well-preserved, historic, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Kanazawa travel costs.

Hue and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hue or Kanazawa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Hue than Kanazawa. While Kanazawa is larger than Hue, Hue has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hue is well known for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. Also, Hue is famous for Imperial City. Kanazawa is well known for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens.

How is Hue different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hue or Kanazawa?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hue or Kanazawa.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hue. It's an ancient city that is filled with many sights from its imperial past. The Imperial City in Hue is the city's most important attraction. Other sights include the Thai Hoa Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kanazawa. 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 Hue or Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hue and Kanazawa.

Dining out in Hue is an experience not to be missed. Local dishes were once served to the city's emperors, but today you'll find them in restaurants and food stalls. Dishes are either sweet or spicy with lemongrass, basil, chilies, and mint herbs mixed in. Soups and grilled meats are popular such as bun bo hue and nem lui.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kanazawa. 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 Hue or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Both Hue and Kanazawa are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hue. For the best nightlife, many visitors head to the Western Area, particularly around the streets of Pham Ngu Lao, Chu Van An and Vo Thi Sau. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street is another popular area for nightlife in Hue.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Hue or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

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

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Hue. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.

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 Hue or Kanazawa?

Both Hue and Kanazawa are superb shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hue. The city has many local markets where you can find traditional and authentic handicrafts. Some of the most interesting things to purchase at the markets include silk paintings, antiques, and lacquerware.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kanazawa. 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 Hue or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Both Hue and Kanazawa are notable to visit with kids.

Hue is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the Imperial City, visiting Ho Quyen Arena and Long Chau Temple, or wandering through the city's local markets. The Demilitarized Zone is also an interesting side trip.

Kanazawa is a family-friendly city. 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 Hue or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Both Hue and Kanazawa are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hue is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can enjoy boat rides or sunset cruises along Perfume River. There are also interesting temples and fascinating day trips that you can take from the city.

Kanazawa is a nice destination for couples. 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 Hue or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Hue is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It is a popular stop over in central Vietnam. There are plenty of hostels and budget guesthouses to accommodate the backpacker crowds. There are also cheap restaurants and interesting activities relating to the city's long history.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Hue or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Kanazawa is a city with good options for students. However, Hue is not popular with 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.

Hue is not popular with students.

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

Both Hue and Kanazawa offer notable public transit options.

Hue has a few public transit options. Cyclos, motorbikes, and local bus are the most common ways to get around the city.

Kanazawa has some public transit options. 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.

Is Hue or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Hue and Kanazawa both are superb when exploring on foot.

Hue is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights can be reached on foot and the city is relatively compact.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Hue?

How long in Hue or Kanazawa?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hue 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 Hue.

One day in Hue or Kanazawa?

The city of Hue offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With nightlife and food around the well-preserved destination of Kanazawa, there's plenty to do. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Hue or Kanazawa?

Hue is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hue, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Kanazawa for a weekend. With food and shopping around the cultural city of Kanazawa, there's plenty to do. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Hue or Kanazawa?

Hue is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The destination of Kanazawa offers shopping and museums. It offers something for everyone. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Hue or Kanazawa?

Hue 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.

Kanazawa, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Vietnam, The Best Cultural 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 Hue and Kanazawa, we can see that Kanazawa is more expensive. And not only is Hue much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hue would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hue 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 Hue.

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

Which is Bigger, Hue or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Hue. When comparing the sizes of Hue 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 Hue or Kanazawa?

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

Should I visit Hue or Kanazawa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hue as well as Kanazawa. Hue attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Kanazawa for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Hue is a little warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hue in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hue this time of the year. In the summer, Hue often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Hue gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 180 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Hue usually gets less rain in July than Kanazawa. Hue gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, March to August in Hue is the dry season. September to December in Hue is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hue or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

Both Kanazawa and Hue are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the shopping scene.

In October, Hue is generally much warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 25°C (78°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Hue usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa during autumn. Hue gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. It's quite rainy in Hue. In October, Hue usually receives more rain than Kanazawa. Hue gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Hue is September to December.

Should I visit Hue or Kanazawa in the Winter?

Both Kanazawa and Hue during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hue because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, 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. Hue is much warmer than Kanazawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Hue often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Hue gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 67 hours of full sun.

Kanazawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hue. Hue usually gets less rain in January than Kanazawa. Hue gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain this time of the year. March to August is the dry season in Hue.

Should I visit Hue or Kanazawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hue and Kanazawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hue year-round.

In the spring, Hue is much warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hue in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Hue, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hue usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during spring. Hue gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Hue usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Hue gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Hue