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

Should you visit Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Nagasaki or Hiroshima? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a welcoming, interesting, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a meaningful, park-filled, and memorable city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nagasaki and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nagasaki than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Nagasaki, Nagasaki has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nagasaki is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Hiroshima is more popular for its museums and shopping. Nagasaki is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. Also, Nagasaki is famous for the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Hiroshima is well known for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Nagasaki different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hiroshima is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hiroshima has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Nagasaki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

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

Foodies will find both Nagasaki and Hiroshima both to be excellent destinations.

Nagasaki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hiroshima makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Nagasaki or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki has something for everybody. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

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 the Shopping Better in Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

Hiroshima is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hiroshima. 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.

Nagasaki is a great destination for shopping. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Is Nagasaki or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nagasaki or Hiroshima.

Nagasaki is a family-friendly city. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hiroshima. 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 Nagasaki or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Nagasaki and Hiroshima make for a notable place to visit.

Nagasaki is a good city for couples to visit. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

Hiroshima is a nice destination for couples. 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 Nagasaki or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagasaki and Hiroshima are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nagasaki. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

Hiroshima is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

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

Visitors will find excellent public transit in both Nagasaki and Hiroshima.

The public transit in Nagasaki can get you to most places easily. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

Visitors to Hiroshima can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

Is Nagasaki or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Nagasaki is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagasaki Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Nagasaki?

How long in Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nagasaki and Hiroshima. In our opinion, Hiroshima has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hiroshima than Nagasaki. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hiroshima than Nagasaki 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 Hiroshima.

One day in Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nagasaki. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Hiroshima offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the interesting destination of Nagasaki. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hiroshima, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Nagasaki. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hiroshima is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

Nagasaki is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki Expensive? and Is Hiroshima Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nagasaki or Hiroshima?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Many visitors come to Nagasaki in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hiroshima for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nagasaki is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagasaki in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Nagasaki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during summer. Nagasaki gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Nagasaki gets 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagasaki as well as Hiroshima. Most visitors come to Nagasaki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the shopping scene.

In October, Nagasaki is generally a little warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 20°C (67°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Nagasaki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Nagasaki gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagasaki usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hiroshima. Nagasaki gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Nagasaki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hiroshima in the winter. Nagasaki is much warmer than Hiroshima in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagasaki averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Nagasaki usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Nagasaki gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Nagasaki gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Nagasaki during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nagasaki this time of year.

In the spring, Nagasaki is a little warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagasaki in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Nagasaki often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Nagasaki gets 174 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 Nagasaki. Nagasaki usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hiroshima. Nagasaki gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Nagasaki