A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagano vs. Seattle for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Nagano or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Nagano and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle than Nagano, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Nagano is known for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nagano is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Nagano different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Skiing?

Nagano is notable for snow skiing. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle is not a skiing destination.

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

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

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 Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for its theatre productions. However, Nagano is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Nagano is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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 Seattle is an experience not to be missed. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Nagano and Seattle.

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.

Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a great city for its live music scene. However, Nagano is not a live music destination.

Seattle has a thriving music scene. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Nagano is not a live music destination.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

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

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a city with good options for the beache. However, Nagano is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Nagano is not a beach destination.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Both Nagano and Seattle are destinations which offer high quality 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.

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Seattle?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nagano and Seattle 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 Seattle to go shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Families?

Nagano is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Nagano and Seattle are good 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.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Seattle 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 Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Nagano or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle 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 Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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 Seattle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagano and Seattle 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. .

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Nagano or Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle 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.

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Seattle?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

One day in Nagano or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 Seattle?

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 museums and theater when visiting the laid-back big city of Seattle. This city 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagano and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Nagano during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nagano for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nagano is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagano in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Seattle. The autumn months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In October, Nagano is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 16°C (60°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nagano usually receives more rain than Seattle. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nagano or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Seattle. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nagano in the winter. Nagano is much colder than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nagano this time of the year. In the winter, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Nagano receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nagano usually gets more rain in January than Seattle. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nagano is around the same temperature as Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagano in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during spring. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nagano usually receives more rain than Seattle. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Nagano