A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nagano vs. Okinawa for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Nagano or Okinawa?

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 Okinawa 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a idyllic, tropical, and lush archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nagano and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Nagano or Okinawa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nagano than Okinawa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Nagano is more popular for its skiing, historical sights, and big city activities, while Okinawa is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Nagano is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also home to Zenko-ji Temple. Okinawa is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life.

How is Nagano different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Skiing?

Nagano
Okinawa

Nagano is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Okinawa is not a skiing destination.

Nagano is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Okinawa is not a skiing destination.


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

Nagano
Okinawa

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

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 Okinawa. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

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

Nagano
Okinawa

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

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 Okinawa is an experience not to be missed. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Nagano
Okinawa

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Nagano and Okinawa.

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.

Okinawa offers plenty to do in the evening. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.


Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Nagano
Okinawa

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its luxury resorts. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

In Okinawa, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

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

Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nagano
Okinawa

Okinawa is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nagano is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Okinawa is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Nagano is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Nagano
Okinawa

Okinawa is terrific for the beache. However, Nagano is not a beach destination.

Okinawa is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Nagano is not a beach destination.


Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for its Old Town?

Nagano
Okinawa

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

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Okinawa does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Nagano
Okinawa

Okinawa is terrific for hiking. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Around Okinawa visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Okinawa?

Nagano
Okinawa

If you're looking to go shopping, Nagano and Okinawa both offer plenty of good spots.

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.

Many visitors go to Okinawa to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.


Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Families?

Nagano
Okinawa

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

Okinawa is an extremely popular archipelago to visit for families. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

Nagano is known to be 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.

Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Nagano
Okinawa

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

Okinawa is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

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 Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagano
Okinawa

For backpackers, both Nagano and Okinawa are good 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 Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.


Is Nagano or Okinawa Better for Students?

Nagano
Okinawa

Nagano is a good destination for students. However, Okinawa 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.

Okinawa is not popular with students.

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

Nagano
Okinawa

Nagano and Okinawa both offer good public transit to get you around.

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. .

Okinawa has a few public transit options. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Is Nagano or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Nagano
Okinawa

Nagano is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

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.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable city. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.


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

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Okinawa?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagano than Okinawa 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.


  • How many days in Nagano or Okinawa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagano 1-3 
    Okinawa 3-7

One day in Nagano or Okinawa?

In Nagano, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Okinawa. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Okinawa?

In Nagano, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer.

Okinawa is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagano or Okinawa?

Nagano is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Nagano. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical destination of Okinawa. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Bicycle Tours in Japan, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Okinawa or Nagano?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nagano is $91, while the average daily cost in Okinawa is $105. 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 Nagano and Okinawa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagano $61
    Okinawa $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagano $122
    Okinawa $146
Compare Hotels in Nagano and Okinawa

Looking for a hotel in Nagano or Okinawa? 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 Nagano


Hotels in Okinawa


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: Nagano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagano $9.91
    Okinawa $9.43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Okinawa

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Okinawa:

  • Private One Way Transfer: Naha Airport (OHA) to/from Okinawa : $128
  • Airport Transfer! Center of Naha to Naha Airport (OKA): $125
  • Airport Transfer! Naha Airport (OKA) to Center of Naha: $124
  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $66
  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $59
  • Naha hotels to Okinawa Naha Airport (ОКА) - Departure Transfer: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagano or Okinawa?

Prices for flights to both Okinawa and Nagano 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
    Nagano $22
    Okinawa $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Okinawa

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Okinawa.

  • Taste of Okinawa Cooking Experience and Historic Market Tour: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagano $8.26
    Okinawa $14

Tours and Activities in Okinawa

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Okinawa are as follows:

  • Okinawa Local Experience and Sunset Cycling Tour: $88
  • 2-Hour Private Gorilla Go Kart Experience in Okinawa: $68
  • 4 Person Group Tour Kerama Blue Cycling in Aka Island : $122
  • American Village &Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Tour from Naha/Chatan: $78
  • Beautiful sunset kayak tour in Okinawa: $37
  • City of Romance and Great Figures Haebaru Cycling Tour: $101
  • Cycling Experience in the Historic City of Urasoe: $101
  • E-Bike Nature Tour in Shuri: $91
  • Jungle River Trek: private tour in Yanbaru, north Okinawa: $51
  • Karate History Tour in Okinawa: $109
  • Kayak Mangroves or Coral Reef: private tour in north Okinawa : $61
  • Kendo/Samurai Experience In Okinawa: $122

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagano -
    Okinawa $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Okinawa

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

  • Naha Local Pub Crawl: $110


When comparing the travel costs between Nagano and Okinawa, we can see that Okinawa 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 Okinawa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nagano or Okinawa?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nagano or Okinawa in the Summer?

Both Okinawa and Nagano during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Okinawa for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nagano is cooler than Okinawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagano in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Okinawa averages at about 29°C (84°F).

In Okinawa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun.

Okinawa 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 July than Okinawa. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nagano 25°C (77°F) 
    Okinawa 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Nagano or Okinawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Okinawa. Many travelers come to Nagano for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nagano is generally much colder than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 16°C (60°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Nagano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Okinawa during autumn. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nagano usually receives more rain than Okinawa. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nagano 16°C (60°F) 
    Okinawa 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Nagano or Okinawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Okinawa. Many visitors come to Nagano in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Okinawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nagano can get quite cold in the winter. Nagano is much colder than Okinawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nagano this time of the year. In the winter, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Nagano receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nagano usually gets more rain in January than Okinawa. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nagano 2°C (36°F) 
    Okinawa 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Nagano or Okinawa in the Spring?

Both Okinawa and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nagano is much colder than Okinawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagano in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Okinawa averages at about 22°C (71°F).

Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during spring. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. In April, Nagano usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nagano 11°C (52°F) 
    Okinawa 22°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Nagano

Nagano Okinawa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 446 mm (17.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 275 mm (10.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 191 mm (7.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 24°C (76°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 152 mm (6 in) 27°C (80°F) 255 mm (10 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 222 mm (8.8 in) 29°C (84°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 26°C (80°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 28°C (83°F) 266 mm (10.5 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 232 mm (9.1 in) 28°C (82°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 227 mm (9 in) 25°C (77°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Nov 10°C (50°F) 339 mm (13.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 440 mm (17.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)