A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagano vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Nagano or Las Vegas?

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 Las Vegas 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 alpine, scenic, and historic 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. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a fun-filled, entertaining, and sexy entertainment capital. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Nagano and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Las Vegas?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Las Vegas than Nagano. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Las Vegas is very popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Nagano attracts visitors for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Las Vegas is more touristy than Nagano and is popular for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also well known for The Strip. Nagano is famous for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games.

How is Nagano different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Skiing?

Nagano is notable for snow skiing. However, Las Vegas 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.

Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagano or Las Vegas?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Nagano and Las Vegas.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Las Vegas. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Nagano is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Las Vegas that are not to be missed. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Nagano is not a theatre destination.

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

Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

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 Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Las Vegas is a must-see party destination. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is terrific for its live music scene. However, Nagano is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Las Vegas. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Nagano is not a live music destination.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

Las Vegas is a world class resort vacation destination. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Las Vegas 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.

Las Vegas does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Nagano is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Nagano is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Las Vegas draws large crowds to its stores. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

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 Las Vegas Better for Families?

Nagano is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital 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.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Las Vegas is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Las Vegas is a great entertainment capital for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

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 Las Vegas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagano is a good destination for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas Better for Students?

Nagano is a good destination for students. However, Las Vegas is not popular with students.

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

Las Vegas is not popular with students.

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

Nagano is a good destination for its public transit. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for times when you don't have a car.

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. .

Public transit is mostly limited in Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

Is Nagano or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Nagano and Las Vegas are nice when it comes to walkability.

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.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable city. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

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

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Las Vegas?

Both Nagano and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Las Vegas than in Nagano. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagano than Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas?

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.

Las Vegas is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Las Vegas?

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.

Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic 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 Las Vegas. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagano or Las Vegas?

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.

Las Vegas is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagano and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is Nagano much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nagano is in Asia and Las Vegas is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Nagano would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nagano 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 Las Vegas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Las Vegas than you might in Nagano.

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano and Las Vegas, 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.