A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nagano vs. Sapporo for Skiing, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nagano or Sapporo?

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 Sapporo 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. 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. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a laid-back, park-filled, and snowy city. 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 skiing, nightlife, and food.

Nagano and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Sapporo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nagano than Sapporo. While Sapporo is larger than Nagano, Nagano has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nagano is more popular for its resorts, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sapporo is known for its shopping and big city activities. 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. Sapporo is popular for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival.

How is Nagano different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

For skiing and winter sports, both Nagano and Sapporo provide great options.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Nagano. 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.

Sapporo is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

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

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

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 Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

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

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

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 Sapporo is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Is Nagano or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Nagano and Sapporo.

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.

Sapporo offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

Is Nagano or Sapporo Better for Resorts?

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

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

Sapporo is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Sapporo Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Sapporo does not have a historic old town.

Nagano has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Sapporo does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Sapporo Better for Hiking?

Nagano is a great city for hiking. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Sapporo?

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

Sapporo is well-known for its shopping. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

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 Sapporo Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

Is Nagano or Sapporo Better for Couples?

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

Sapporo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

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 Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sapporo is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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.

Is Nagano or Sapporo Better for Students?

Sapporo is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

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.

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

Sapporo 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 Sapporo can get you around easily. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

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 Sapporo a more walkable city?

Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is a very walkable city. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

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 Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Sapporo?

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

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

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

One day in Nagano or Sapporo?

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.

Sapporo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Sapporo?

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.

Sapporo 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 Sapporo?

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 Sapporo. 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 Sapporo?

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.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the snowy big city of Sapporo. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagano and Sapporo, we can see that Sapporo is more expensive. And not only is Nagano much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Sapporo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sapporo 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 Sapporo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Sapporo?

Sapporo has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano and Sapporo, 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 Sapporo?

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 Sapporo in the Summer?

Both Sapporo 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 city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year.

In the summer, Nagano is a little warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagano in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Sapporo averages at about 21°C (69°F).

Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Sapporo during summer. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In July, Nagano usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagano or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Nagano is generally a little warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 16°C (60°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Nagano often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 156 hours of full sun.

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Sapporo in the Winter?

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

Sapporo can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nagano. Nagano is much warmer than Sapporo in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Sapporo fluctuates around -5°C (24°F).

In Nagano, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during winter. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sapporo receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nagano usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagano or Sapporo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Sapporo. Many visitors come to Nagano in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sapporo for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Nagano is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagano in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Sapporo averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Nagano often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 183 hours of full sun.

Nagano usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Nagano