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

Should you visit Nagoya or Kobe?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Kobe? 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 often overlooked, under-the-radar, and under-rated city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kobe

Kobe is a quaint, subdued, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nagoya and Kobe: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Nagoya or Kobe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagoya than Kobe. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nagoya is famous for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. It is also well known for the Nagoya Castle. Kobe is famous for its world renowned Kobe beef and its hot spring resorts.

How is Nagoya different from Kobe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kobe 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 Kobe?

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya is great for its historical sights. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nagoya. 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.

Kobe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower and visit the high energy area of Kobe Harborland. The Disaster Reduction Museum and the nearby Human Renovation Museum are both fascinating to visit as well. Also check out the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art and Rokko Island.


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

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Nagoya, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kobe makes for a great culinary experience. Most people immediately think of Kobe beef when they think of this city, but there are also many other specialties around town. You'll find good sushi as well as akashiyaki, which are octopus dumplings. The city long served as a major port for Japan, so there is a strong Chinese influence over the cuisine. In particular, you should try the chuka ryori (a Chinese dumpling).

Is Nagoya or Kobe Better for Nightlife?

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya is great for its evening party scene. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Nagoya for the nightlife scene. 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 Kobe. The nightlife scene is a bit subdued, but that doesn't mean you won't find local bars, karaoke, and live music venues where you can hang out. Many visitors enjoy having a chill night out with a drink in a laid back setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagoya or Kobe?

Nagoya
Kobe

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Nagoya and Kobe.

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.

Kobe is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's fun and convenient to shop here, as the best shopping districts are easy to access from the train stations. Sannomiya is a hub of transportation and shopping in the city, but also check out Kobe Harborland for its diverse stores and high energy.


Is Nagoya or Kobe Better for Families?

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Nagoya is very family-friendly. 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.

Kobe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly attractions around Kobe Harborland including a ferris wheel, Anpanman Museum, and the Kobe Maritime Museum. Kids will also enjoy running around Meriken Park or Mount Rokko. Kids who like animals will enjoy a visit to Kobe Animal Kingdom.

Is Nagoya or Kobe Better for Couples?

Nagoya
Kobe

With fun activities for couples, both Nagoya and Kobe make for a nice 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.

Kobe is a nice destination for couples. There's a romantic view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower. There are also many parks and a waterfront promenade where you can take a stroll. If you enjoy hiking, you can take the Maya View Line Kikuseidai, which is particularly nice in the evening.

Is Nagoya or Kobe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya and Kobe are both nice 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.

Kobe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although many tourists and backpackers don't put Kobe on their itinerary, there are still a handful of hostels around the city.


Is Nagoya or Kobe Better for Students?

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kobe 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.

Kobe is not popular with students.

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

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Kobe has a few public transit options. While there is a subway system, it's not particularly useful to tourists. There is a bus service that operates a line that targets tourists.

Is Nagoya or Kobe a more walkable city?

Nagoya
Kobe

Nagoya is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

Kobe is somewhat walkable. It's relatively easy to walk around many parts of the city, although some areas are quite hilly. You can walk from Shin-Kobe Bullet Train Station to the water in about half an hour.


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

Should I spend more time in Kobe or Nagoya?

How long in Nagoya or Kobe?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nagoya or Kobe to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nagoya than Kobe because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagoya, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kobe.

Families should spend more time in Nagoya than Kobe. 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 Kobe. 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 Kobe 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 Kobe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagoya 2-3 
    Kobe 1-2

One day in Nagoya or Kobe?

Nagoya is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kobe. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Nagoya or Kobe?

Nagoya is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kobe 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 Nagoya or Kobe?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the often overlooked big city of Nagoya. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Kobe. 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 Kobe?

The under-rated city of Nagoya offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Kobe. 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, Kobe 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 Kobe 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 Nagoya and Kobe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagoya $47
    Kobe $61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagoya $94
    Kobe $122
Compare Hotels in Nagoya and Kobe

Looking for a hotel in Nagoya or Kobe? 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 Kobe


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 Kobe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagoya $11
    Kobe $13

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 Kobe

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

  • Private departure transfer from Kobe City & Arima Onsen to Kansai Airport : $96
  • Private Transfer from Kobe Port to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX): $86
  • Private Transfer from Kobe Port to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX): $95
  • Private Transfer from Kobe Cruise Port to Kobe Airport (UKB): $44
  • Private Transfer from Kobe Airport (UKB) to Kobe Cruise Port: $48
  • Private Departure Transfer Kobe City to Kobe International Airport: $66
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Kobe Airport to Kobe City: $66
  • Osaka Kansai Airport to/from Kobe City Private Transfer: $172
  • Osaka (Itami) Airport to/from Kobe City Private Transfer: $112
  • Kobe Airport Transfers : Kobe Airport UKB to Kobe City in Business Car: $133
  • Kobe Airport (UKB) to Kobe hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $40
  • Kansai(KIX) Airport transfer between Osaka city (One Way): $152

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagoya or Kobe?

Prices for flights to both Kobe 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
    Kobe $31

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 Kobe

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

  • Kobe Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $162
  • Eat Like a Local Private & Personalized Food Tour: $238
  • One day in Kobe with beef dinner =standard=: $284
  • One day in Kobe with beef dinner =premium=: $310

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagoya $13
    Kobe $24

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 Kobe

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

  • 1-Day Kobe Highlights Tour including Sake Tasting: $159
  • 1-Day Walking Tour around Kobe : Mountains, Sea and Sake: $139
  • 3-hour Nada, Kobe Sake brewerly & tasting walking tour with guide: $76
  • 4-Hour Multicultural Kobe Walking Tour with Genuine Kobe Beef : $174
  • A Tour to Learn all about the international port city, Kobe!: $160
  • Cruise Stop-Over: Explore The City From Kobe Port: $240
  • Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $142
  • Full Day Walking Tour Around Kobe Mountains Sea and Sake: $149
  • Half-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City: $98
  • Himeji and Private Guided 1 Day Tour: $238
  • KOBE Walking Tour [Customize Your Itinerary]: $294
  • KOBE, SHIOYA, a quaint fishing town walking tour : $97

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagoya $12
    Kobe $8.67

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Kobe

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

  • Sake Brewery and Japanese Life Experience Tour in Kobe: $89
  • Nada Sake Brewery District Private Walking Tour: $139


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagoya and Kobe, we can see that Kobe is more expensive. And not only is Nagoya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nagoya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nagoya 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 Kobe would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kobe than you might in Nagoya.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nagoya Expensive? and Is Kobe Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nagoya or Kobe?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Kobe. When comparing the sizes of Nagoya and Kobe, 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 Kobe?

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 Kobe in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagoya and Kobe. Most visitors come to Nagoya for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kobe because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Nagoya is around the same temperature as Kobe in the summer. The daily temperature in Nagoya averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Kobe fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Nagoya usually receives less sunshine than Kobe during summer. Nagoya gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Kobe receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kobe receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagoya usually receives more rain than Kobe. Nagoya gets 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nagoya 27°C (80°F) 
    Kobe 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Kobe in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagoya as well as Kobe. The autumn months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kobe this time of year.

In the autumn, Nagoya is around the same temperature as Kobe. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nagoya in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Kobe averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Nagoya often gets more sunshine than Kobe. Nagoya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kobe receives 159 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nagoya 18°C (64°F) 
    Kobe 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Kobe in the Winter?

Both Kobe and Nagoya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kobe for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nagoya in the winter. In January, Nagoya is generally cooler than Kobe. Daily temperatures in Nagoya average around 4°C (40°F), and Kobe fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Nagoya usually receives more sunshine than Kobe during winter. Nagoya gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Kobe receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nagoya usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kobe. Nagoya gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nagoya 4°C (40°F) 
    Kobe 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Kobe in the Spring?

Both Kobe and Nagoya during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nagoya for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kobe in the spring for the activities around the city.

Nagoya is around the same temperature as Kobe in the spring. The daily temperature in Nagoya averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Kobe fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Nagoya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kobe. Nagoya gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kobe receives 176 hours of full sun.

Kobe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. Nagoya usually gets more rain in April than Kobe. Nagoya gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nagoya 14°C (58°F) 
    Kobe 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Kobe and Nagoya

Nagoya Kobe
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 9°C (47°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 152 mm (6 in) 15°C (58°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 143 mm (5.6 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 219 mm (8.6 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 27°C (80°F) 157 mm (6.2 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 28°C (83°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 204 mm (8 in) 24°C (76°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)