A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nagano vs. Hiroshima for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nagano or Hiroshima?

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 Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nagano and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Hiroshima?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nagano than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Nagano, Nagano has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nagano is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Nagano is more touristy than Hiroshima 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. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Nagano different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Skiing?

Nagano is a great city for skiing. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not a skiing destination.

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

Hiroshima is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Hiroshima are world-renowned. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Nagano and Hiroshima.

Nagano has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Hiroshima is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is a great city for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Nagano has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Resorts?

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

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

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Hiking?

Nagano is a great city for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

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.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Hiroshima?

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

Hiroshima is well-known for its shopping. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

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 Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Nagano is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Nagano is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Both Nagano and Hiroshima are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Hiroshima is a good city for couples to visit. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Nagano or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Nagano is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

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

Hiroshima is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

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. .

Is Nagano or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Hiroshima is a very walkable city. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

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 Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nagano and Hiroshima. In our opinion, Nagano has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nagano than Hiroshima. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

Families should spend more time in Nagano than Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the city of Nagano. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Hiroshima?

You'll find nightlife and food around the alpine destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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.

Five days in Nagano or Hiroshima?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic city of Nagano. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. Don't miss the museums, 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.

A week in Nagano or Hiroshima?

Nagano is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the park-filled destination of Hiroshima. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 comparing the travel costs between Nagano and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima 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 Nagano Expensive? and Is Hiroshima Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Hiroshima?

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

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 Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima 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 family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In July, Nagano is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 25°C (77°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during summer. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Nagano. In July, Nagano usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hiroshima. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagano or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

Both Hiroshima 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. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

Nagano is cooler than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Hiroshima. Many travelers come to Nagano for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nagano. In the winter, Nagano is much colder than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagano in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In Nagano, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nagano usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagano or Hiroshima in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Hiroshima. Many visitors come to Nagano in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Nagano is generally cooler than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 11°C (52°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Nagano often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Nagano usually gets less rain in April than Hiroshima. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Nagano