A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Kobe vs. Kanazawa for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kobe or Kanazawa?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kobe and Kanazawa. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kobe

Kobe is a under-rated, multicultural, and quaint city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a well-preserved, historic, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kobe and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Kobe or Kanazawa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kobe than Kanazawa. Kobe is bigger than Kanazawa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kobe is better known for its big city activities, while Kanazawa is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Kanazawa is more touristy than Kobe and is known for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens. Kobe is well known for its world renowned Kobe beef and its hot spring resorts. Also, Kobe is famous for Kobe Harborland.

How is Kobe different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kobe
Kanazawa

Kanazawa is great for its historical sights. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Kobe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower and visit the high energy area of Kobe Harborland. The Disaster Reduction Museum and the nearby Human Renovation Museum are both fascinating to visit as well. Also check out the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art and Rokko Island.


Is the Food Better in Kobe or Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kobe
Kanazawa

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Kobe and Kanazawa can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Kobe has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Most people immediately think of Kobe beef when they think of this city, but there are also many other specialties around town. You'll find good sushi as well as akashiyaki, which are octopus dumplings. The city long served as a major port for Japan, so there is a strong Chinese influence over the cuisine. In particular, you should try the chuka ryori (a Chinese dumpling).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kanazawa makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Kobe or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Kobe
Kanazawa

The vibe at night is notable in both Kobe and Kanazawa.

If you're looking for night time activities Kobe has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is a bit subdued, but that doesn't mean you won't find local bars, karaoke, and live music venues where you can hang out. Many visitors enjoy having a chill night out with a drink in a laid back setting.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Kobe or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Kobe
Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Kobe does not have a historic old town.

Kanazawa has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Kobe does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Kobe or Kanazawa?

Kobe
Kanazawa

If you're looking to go shopping, Kobe and Kanazawa both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kobe. It's fun and convenient to shop here, as the best shopping districts are easy to access from the train stations. Sannomiya is a hub of transportation and shopping in the city, but also check out Kobe Harborland for its diverse stores and high energy.

Kanazawa is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Kobe or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Kobe
Kanazawa

Both Kobe and Kanazawa are notable family-friendly destinations.

Kobe offers lots of family activities. There are a number of kid-friendly attractions around Kobe Harborland including a ferris wheel, Anpanman Museum, and the Kobe Maritime Museum. Kids will also enjoy running around Meriken Park or Mount Rokko. Kids who like animals will enjoy a visit to Kobe Animal Kingdom.

Kanazawa is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Kobe or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Kobe
Kanazawa

Kobe and Kanazawa both notable destinations for a couple.

Kobe is a good city for couples to visit. There's a romantic view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower. There are also many parks and a waterfront promenade where you can take a stroll. If you enjoy hiking, you can take the Maya View Line Kikuseidai, which is particularly nice in the evening.

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 Kobe or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kobe
Kanazawa

For backpackers, both Kobe and Kanazawa are notable places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kobe. Although many tourists and backpackers don't put Kobe on their itinerary, there are still a handful of hostels around the city.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Kobe or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Kobe
Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kobe is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Kanazawa. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

Kobe is not popular with students.

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

Kobe
Kanazawa

Kobe and Kanazawa both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Kobe offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While there is a subway system, it's not particularly useful to tourists. There is a bus service that operates a line that targets tourists.

Kanazawa has a few 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 Kobe or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Kobe
Kanazawa

Kanazawa is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Kobe is somewhat walkable. It's relatively easy to walk around many parts of the city, although some areas are quite hilly. You can walk from Shin-Kobe Bullet Train Station to the water in about half an hour.

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

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Kobe?

How long in Kobe or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kobe or Kanazawa to fill your time. In our opinion, Kanazawa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kanazawa than Kobe. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kanazawa than Kobe 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 Kanazawa.


  • How many days in Kobe or Kanazawa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kobe 1-2 
    Kanazawa 1-2

One day in Kobe or Kanazawa?

The city of Kobe offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Kanazawa. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Kobe or Kanazawa?

Kobe 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kobe, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kanazawa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Kobe or Kanazawa?

Kobe 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Kanazawa. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kobe or Kanazawa?

Kobe is a great place to explore. 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.

The historic city of Kanazawa offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Japan, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Japan, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Kanazawa or Kobe?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kobe is $105, while the average daily cost in Kanazawa is $104. 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 Kobe and Kanazawa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kobe $61
    Kanazawa $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kobe $122
    Kanazawa $130
Compare Hotels in Kobe and Kanazawa

Looking for a hotel in Kobe or Kanazawa? 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 Kobe


Hotels in Kanazawa


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: Kobe Hotel Prices and Kanazawa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kobe $13
    Kanazawa $9.43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kobe

Also for Kobe, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Kansai Airport (KIX): Private One-Way Transfer to/from Kobe: $240
  • Itami Airport (ITM): Private One-Way Transfer to/from Kobe: $183
  • Osaka Kansai Airport to/from Kobe City Private Transfer: $172
  • Kansai(KIX) Airport transfer between Osaka city (One Way): $152
  • Kobe Airport Transfers : Kobe Airport UKB to Kobe City in Business Car: $133
  • Departure Private Transfers from Kobe City to Kobe Airport UKB in Business Car: $133
  • Osaka (Itami) Airport to/from Kobe City Private Transfer: $112
  • Private departure transfer from Kobe City & Arima Onsen to Kansai Airport : $96
  • Private Transfer from Kobe Port to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX): $95
  • Private Transfer from Kobe Port to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX): $86
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Kobe Airport to Kobe City: $66
  • Private Departure Transfer Kobe City to Kobe International Airport: $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kanazawa

Also for Kanazawa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Noto Airport to/from Kanazawa City Private Transfer: $322
  • Kanazawa City to/from Wakura City Private transfer: $258
  • Private Transfer from Kanazawa Port to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO): $132

Is it cheaper to fly into Kobe or Kanazawa?

Prices for flights to both Kanazawa and Kobe 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
    Kobe $31
    Kanazawa $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kobe

For Kobe, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Kobe Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $162
  • Eat Like a Local Private & Personalized Food Tour: $238
  • One day in Kobe with beef dinner =standard=: $284
  • One day in Kobe with beef dinner =premium=: $310

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kanazawa

For Kanazawa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Kanazawa Home Cooking Class: $44
  • Sneaking into a Cooking Class for Japanese: $59
  • Sneaking into a Cooking Class for Japanese: $61
  • Geiko or Geisha Performance with Dinner: $270

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kobe $24
    Kanazawa $9.86

Tours and Activities in Kobe

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kobe.

  • 1-Day Kobe Highlights Tour including Sake Tasting: $159
  • 1-Day Walking Tour around Kobe : Mountains, Sea and Sake: $139
  • 3-hour Nada, Kobe Sake brewerly & tasting walking tour with guide: $76
  • 4-Hour Multicultural Kobe Walking Tour with Genuine Kobe Beef : $174
  • A Tour to Learn all about the international port city, Kobe!: $160
  • Cruise Stop-Over: Explore The City From Kobe Port: $240
  • Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $142
  • Full Day Walking Tour Around Kobe Mountains Sea and Sake: $149
  • Half-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City: $98
  • Himeji and Private Guided 1 Day Tour: $238
  • KOBE Walking Tour [Customize Your Itinerary]: $294
  • KOBE, SHIOYA, a quaint fishing town walking tour : $97

Tours and Activities in Kanazawa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kanazawa.

  • “Be a Local” Kanazawa Izakaya Hop Tour: $81
  • 1 Day Tour from Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen: $233
  • 1-Day Shirakawago & Takayama Tour (Round Trip from Kanazawa): $172
  • 4 Hour Unique Kanazawa Cherry Blossom Sakura Private Experience: $219
  • Afternoon Round Trip Tour from Kanazawa: $91
  • E-Bike Cycling with Guided Tour of Kanazawa Main & Kenrokuen: $77
  • Full Day Tour Eiheiji Buddhist Temple and Fukui City Castle Town: $219
  • Full-Day Tour from Samurai, Matcha, Gardens and Geisha: $155
  • Futamata Clay Factory Tour: $297
  • Gokayama/Shirakawago private 1 day tour+Photoshoot by professional photographer : $221
  • Guided Night Tour to Feel the Samurai Culture in Kanazawa: $58
  • Hidden Gems Of Private & Personalized Walking Experience: $103

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kobe $8.67
    Kanazawa $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Kobe

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Kobe:

  • Sake Brewery and Japanese Life Experience Tour in Kobe: $89
  • Nada Sake Brewery District Private Walking Tour: $139


When comparing the travel costs between Kobe and Kanazawa, we can see that Kobe is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Kobe or Kanazawa?

Kobe has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kanazawa. When comparing the sizes of Kobe 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 Kobe or Kanazawa?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kobe or Kanazawa in the Summer?

Both Kanazawa and Kobe are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kobe for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kanazawa in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kobe is around the same temperature as Kanazawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kobe in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 26°C (78°F).

Kobe usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa during summer. Kobe gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. It's quite rainy in Kobe. In July, Kobe usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Kobe gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kobe 27°C (80°F) 
    Kanazawa 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Kobe or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

Both Kanazawa and Kobe during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kobe in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Kanazawa for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Kobe is generally a little warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Kobe average around 18°C (65°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Kobe often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa. Kobe gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 155 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 Kobe. Kobe usually gets less rain in October than Kanazawa. Kobe gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kobe 18°C (65°F) 
    Kanazawa 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Kobe or Kanazawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kobe and Kanazawa. Most visitors come to Kobe for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kanazawa can be very cold. Kobe is much warmer than Kanazawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Kobe averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Kobe usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during winter. Kobe gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Kobe usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Kobe gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kobe 5°C (42°F) 
    Kanazawa 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Kobe or Kanazawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kobe as well as Kanazawa. The spring months attract visitors to Kobe because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kobe is a little warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kobe in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Kobe often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa. Kobe gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Kobe receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kobe usually gets less rain in April than Kanazawa. Kobe gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kobe 15°C (58°F) 
    Kanazawa 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Kobe

Kobe Kanazawa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 294 mm (11.6 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 192 mm (7.6 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 138 mm (5.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 149 mm (5.9 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 219 mm (8.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 202 mm (8 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 251 mm (9.9 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 27°C (81°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 248 mm (9.8 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 102 mm (4 in) 17°C (62°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 266 mm (10.5 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 306 mm (12 in)


Related Articles for Kobe
Related Articles for Kanazawa