A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nagano vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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.

Nagano

Nagano is a traditional, alpine, and scenic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a peaceful, relaxing, and natural national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nagano. Although Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations, Nagano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nagano is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known 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. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Nagano different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Skiing?

Nagano is great for skiing. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a skiing destination.

Nagano offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nagano is great for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Is the Food Better in Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagano is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nagano. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Nagano for the nightlife scene. 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai does not have a historic old town.

Nagano is a good destination for visiting its 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Both Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are destinations which offer great hiking.

Many visitors go to Nagano for the hiking trails. 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nagano is a city with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are great to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

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.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are nice places to visit.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Students?

Nagano is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagano is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Nagano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very walkable national park. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagano Worth Visiting? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Families should spend more time in Nagano than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nagano that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagano than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Nagano, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With museums and skiing around the alpine city of Nagano, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the alpine destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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 Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nagano is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the relaxing destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. This national park 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai, we can see that Nagano is more expensive. And not only is Chichibu-Tama-Kai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chichibu-Tama-Kai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

When is the best time to visit Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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 Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Summer?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

In July, Nagano is generally around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 25°C (77°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's quite rainy in Nagano. In July, Nagano usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Autumn?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nagano during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Nagano is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in October than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many travelers come to Nagano for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nagano. In the winter, Nagano is much colder than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagano in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nagano usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagano or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors come to Nagano in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Nagano is generally cooler than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 11°C (52°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Nagano usually gets more rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nagano