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

Should you visit Nagoya or Hiroshima?

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

Should I visit Nagoya 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.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-the-radar, under-rated, and often overlooked city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. 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.

Nagoya and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Nagoya or Hiroshima?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nagoya than Hiroshima. Nagoya is bigger than Hiroshima, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nagoya is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Hiroshima is more popular for its museums. Hiroshima is more touristy than Nagoya and is known for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. Nagoya is well known for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. Also, Nagoya is famous for the Nagoya Castle.

How is Nagoya different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Hiroshima is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Nagoya 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 Nagoya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.


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

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Nagoya is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Nagoya have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hiroshima. 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 Nagoya or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Nagoya 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 Nagoya has something for everybody. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

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 Nagoya or Hiroshima?

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Nagoya and Hiroshima.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nagoya. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Hiroshima is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.


Is Nagoya or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Nagoya is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Nagoya is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Nagoya or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Nagoya
Hiroshima

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

Nagoya is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

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 Nagoya or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Nagoya and Hiroshima are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nagoya. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

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


Is Nagoya or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Nagoya is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Nagoya. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

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

Nagoya
Hiroshima

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Nagoya. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

Public transit in Hiroshima is fairly effecient and thorough. 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 Nagoya or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Nagoya
Hiroshima

Nagoya and Hiroshima are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Nagoya is a very walkable destination. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Nagoya?

How long in Nagoya or Hiroshima?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Nagoya or Hiroshima? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagoya 2-3 
    Hiroshima 2-3

One day in Nagoya or Hiroshima?

People visit Nagoya because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagoya or Hiroshima?

People visit Nagoya because there is so much to do. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagoya or Hiroshima?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-the-radar city of Nagoya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. 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 Hiroshima. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Nagoya or Hiroshima?

Nagoya 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the memorable destination of Hiroshima. 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 from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Hiroshima or Nagoya?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nagoya is $90, while the average daily cost in Hiroshima is $102. 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 Nagoya and Hiroshima in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagoya $47
    Hiroshima $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagoya $94
    Hiroshima $130
Compare Hotels in Nagoya and Hiroshima

Looking for a hotel in Nagoya or Hiroshima? 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 Nagoya


Hotels in Hiroshima


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: Nagoya Hotel Prices and Hiroshima Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagoya $11
    Hiroshima $9.83

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagoya

Also for Nagoya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chubu Airport (NGO): Private Transfer to/from Naign Shrine: $768
  • Private One-Way Transfers to/from Suzuka Circuit: $276
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Airport (NKM) to Toyama Cruise Port: $242
  • Nagoya airport to/from LEGOLAND Private transfer: $196
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Airport NKM to Shimizu Cruise Port: $182
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya City Hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port: $145
  • Chubu Itn Airport to/from Nagoya City private transfer: $142
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Airport (NGO): $86
  • Shared Departure Transfer : Nagoya City to Chubu Airport: $69
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $66
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya hotels: $66
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya City Hotels: $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hiroshima

Also for Hiroshima, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Port to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ): $60
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Hiroshima Port: $60
  • Private Departure Transfer Hiroshima City to Hiroshima International Airport: $225
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Hiroshima International Airport to Hiroshima City: $225
  • Iwakuni Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $238
  • Hiroshima port Shore excursion Private transfer: $494
  • Hiroshima Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $211

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagoya or Hiroshima?

Prices for flights to both Hiroshima and Nagoya 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
    Nagoya $28
    Hiroshima $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Market Tour and Authentic Nagoya Cuisine Cooking Class With a Local in Her Home: $92
  • Specialties of Nagoya Food Tour: $149

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hiroshima

For Hiroshima, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hiroshima No1 food!! 'Okonomiyaki'-cooking class: $42
  • Local Favorites Private Night Food Tour: $69
  • Bar Hopping Food Tour: $83
  • Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour: $84
  • Enjoy a Private Japanese Cooking Class with a Local Hiroshima Family: $90
  • Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima: $99
  • Best of Hiroshima Food Tour: $160
  • Hiroshima Food Tour with a Local Foodie, 100% Personalised & Private: $235

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagoya $13
    Hiroshima $5.46

Tours and Activities in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Hour Genuine Samurai Experience Through Kendo in Nagoya: $122
  • Cartoon experience course for travelers: $34
  • Day Tour with Ghibli Park Admission Ticket Round Trip from Nagoya: $182
  • Experience Japanese calligraphy & tea ceremony at a traditional house in Nagoya: $114
  • From Gujo, Hida Takayama, and Shirakawa-go Day Tour: $63
  • From Ise Grand Shrine Day Tour: $63
  • Full-Day Kisoji Nakasendo Trail Tour from Nagoya: $236
  • Full-Day Small-Group Tour in Ise Jingu: $236
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Tokugawa Museum and Garden: $149
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $122
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Noritake Garden & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $115
  • Guided Half-day Tour(PM) to Nagoya Castle and Modern Technology at SCMAGLEV: $149

Tours and Activities in Hiroshima

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hiroshima.

  • Kimono and Calligraphy Experience in Miyajima: $68
  • 4 Hour Hiroshima Miyajima Private Tour: $84
  • An Amazing set of Cultural experience: Kimono, Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy: $101
  • Field Archery Experience in Hiroshima, Japan: $39
  • From Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour: $112
  • From Private Tour to Kure: $212
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Hiroshima and Miyajima: $115
  • Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima : $164
  • Guided Virtual Tour of Peace Park in Hiroshima/PEACE PARK TOUR VR: $34
  • Hiroshima & Miyajima Island Private Guided Tour: $162
  • Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide: $165
  • Hiroshima Best Spots 6h Private Tour with Licensed Guide: $110

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagoya $12
    Hiroshima $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Nagoya

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

  • Restaurant and Bar Crawl in Nagoya Japan: $40
  • Pub Crawl in Nagoya: $47


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


Which is Bigger, Nagoya or Hiroshima?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Nagoya 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 Nagoya 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 Nagoya or Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagoya and Hiroshima. Many visitors come to Nagoya 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, Nagoya is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagoya in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Nagoya usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during summer. Nagoya gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagoya usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Nagoya gets 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nagoya 27°C (80°F) 
    Hiroshima 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagoya as well as Hiroshima. Most visitors come to Nagoya 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, Nagoya is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Nagoya average around 18°C (64°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Nagoya often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Nagoya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Nagoya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagoya usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Nagoya gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nagoya 18°C (64°F) 
    Hiroshima 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Nagoya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nagoya 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. The weather in Nagoya can be very cold. Nagoya is around the same temperature as Hiroshima in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagoya averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Nagoya usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Nagoya gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nagoya usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Nagoya gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nagoya 4°C (40°F) 
    Hiroshima 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Hiroshima in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Nagoya is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagoya in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Nagoya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima. Nagoya gets 189 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 Nagoya. Nagoya usually gets less rain in April than Hiroshima. Nagoya gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nagoya 14°C (58°F) 
    Hiroshima 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Nagoya

Nagoya Hiroshima
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 152 mm (6 in) 14°C (56°F) 168 mm (6.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 157 mm (6.2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 260 mm (10.2 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 238 mm (9.4 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 27°C (81°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 204 mm (8 in) 23°C (74°F) 185 mm (7.3 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)