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

Should you visit Malang or Nagano?

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

Should I visit Malang or Nagano? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Malang

Malang is a authentic, cultural, and under-rated city. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Malang travel costs.

Nagano

Nagano is a historic, traditional, and alpine city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Nagano is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Nagano travel costs.

Malang and Nagano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malang or Nagano?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Nagano than Malang. While Malang is larger than Nagano, Nagano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nagano is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Malang attracts visitors for its food. Nagano is more touristy than Malang and is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also well known for Zenko-ji Temple. Malang is famous for its many nearby natural attractions.

How is Malang different from Nagano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Malang or Nagano Better for Skiing?

Nagano is well known for winter skiing. However, Malang is not a skiing destination.

Nagano is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Malang is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Malang or Nagano?

Nagano is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Nagano offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Malang offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of museums around town that provide information on the city's culture and history. There are also mosques, temples, and the famous Rainbow Village.

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

Malang 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 Malang have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.

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 Malang or Nagano Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is well known for nightlife. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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

If you're looking for night time activities Malang has a few options to choose from. The universities around town mean that there's a youthful vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll also find a mix of cultural activities as well as modern and trendy venues. There are dance clubs, upscale lounges, and everything in between.

Is Malang or Nagano Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a popular place for its resorts. However, Malang is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Malang is not a resort destination.

Is Malang or Nagano Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Malang does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nagano to see the historical old town. 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.

Malang does not have a historic old town.

Is Malang or Nagano Better for Hiking?

Nagano is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nagano. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Malang. Many visitors use this city as a base for hiking Mount Bromo. It's popular to hire a jeep tour from town, or you can hire a private driver or motorbike. Near town you'll also find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It's possible to hike to the base of the waterfall, but it's a very challenging route.

Is the Shopping Better in Malang or Nagano?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nagano and Malang.

Malang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find places to pick up many local items. The region is known for its ceramics, wood, and rattan (palms).

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nagano. 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 Malang or Nagano More Beautiful?

Nagano is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nagano is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is found in a beautiful part of Japan. It's surrounded by mountains and filled with history and historic sights.

Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Malang or Nagano Better for Families?

Nagano is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Nagano is 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.

Malang offers lots of family activities. If you're willing to head just outside of town, you'll find theme parks and waterparks. Some of the favorites are Batu Secret Zoo, Jatim Park, Selecta Park, and Batu Night Spectacular.

Is Malang or Nagano Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Malang and Nagano make for a nice place to visit.

Malang is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy culture, museums, temples, and great food will have a good time visiting this city. It is also a bit cooler than much of Indonesia, which can make a nice escape from the heat.

Nagano makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Malang or Nagano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malang and Nagano are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Malang. Most backpackers pass through town when they're headed to climb Mount Bromo. There are plenty of hostels and cheap places to stay as well as some sights that are worth checking out.

Nagano is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Malang or Nagano Better for Students?

Malang and Nagano are nice places to visit for students.

Malang is popular with students. The university means that there's a large student population in town.

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

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

Nagano is a popular place for its public transit. However, Malang is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Nagano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Malang. Angkot or mikrolet are small buses or modified cars that carry passengers around town. Many visitors also hire a motor scooter or driver to get around.

Is Malang or Nagano a more walkable city?

Malang and Nagano both are nice when exploring on foot.

Malang is somewhat walkable. The city center is relatively walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Nagano or Malang?

How long in Malang or Nagano?

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

Families should spend more time in Nagano than Malang. 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 Malang. 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 Malang 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 Malang or Nagano?

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malang or Nagano?

Malang 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.

Nagano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Malang or Nagano?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malang. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Malang or Nagano?

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

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the scenic destination of Nagano. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Malang or Nagano?

Malang has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Malang 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.