A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Kanazawa for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Seoul or Kanazawa?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Kanazawa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a cultural, bustling, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Seoul travel costs.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a cultural, well-preserved, and historic city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Kanazawa travel costs.

Seoul and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Kanazawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul than Kanazawa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seoul is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kanazawa attracts visitors for its historical sights. Kanazawa is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seoul or Kanazawa?

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Seoul and Kanazawa.

Many visitors head to Seoul specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Kanazawa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history and you can visit the Kanazawa Castle, the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses, and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area. There are also museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

Is the Food Better in Seoul or Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seoul is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kanazawa. There's a long history to the city's cuisine and you'll find many diverse dishes that combine traditional ingredients with international fusion. The cuisine uses a lot of seafood, but you'll also find the one pot meal of Hanton Rice, Oden (hot pot), and Jibu-ni (made with duck and vegetables).

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is great for nightlife. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Seoul for the nightlife scene. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for Music?

Seoul is very popular for live music. However, Kanazawa is not a live music destination.

Seoul is known as a music capital around the world. K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Kanazawa is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Kanazawa is very good for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Kanazawa to see the old town. It's fascinating to visit both the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area which has preserved samurai houses that line two canals. You can enter a few of the houses to see the traditional way of life.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Kanazawa?

Seoul is very popular for shopping. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Seoul. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

Kanazawa is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many shopping districts that include department stores, traditional stores, and large markets. This is a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Seoul is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Seoul is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

Kanazawa is a family-friendly place to visit. Myouryuji Temple is a fun temple for kids where they can play ninja and discover the hidden spaces. When the kids are burned out of history, head to Tedori Fish Land which is a theme park in the area or check out the slides at Kenmin Seaside Park. There's also the Dolls Museum and the beautiful coastline.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Seoul is great for romance. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Seoul is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Kanazawa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has markets, museums, and gardens that are fun to explore as a couple. You can visit the Kanazawa Castle or sample one of the many restaurants around town.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Kanazawa are nice destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for Students?

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

Seoul is very popular with students. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Kanazawa is a good city to visit for students. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Seoul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Kanazawa has a few public transit options. There are two main buses that tourists use in town. The Kenrokuen Shuttle goes between the Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Gardens and the Kanazawa Loop Bus runs from Kanazawa Station via the Teramachi area, the Higashi Chaya District, and Omicho Market.

Is Seoul or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Seoul and Kanazawa both are very good when exploring on foot.

Seoul is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

Kanazawa is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable with some rolling hills. It's possible to walk to Kanazawa Castle from Kanazawa Station in about 35 minutes.

For even more information, also check out Is Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Seoul or Kanazawa to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Seoul than Kanazawa because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kanazawa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seoul than Kanazawa 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 Seoul.

One day in Seoul or Kanazawa?

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Kanazawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Seoul or Kanazawa?

Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kanazawa. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Kanazawa?

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kanazawa is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kanazawa. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Kanazawa?

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the well-preserved destination of Kanazawa. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Kanazawa, we can see that Kanazawa 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 Seoul Expensive? and Is Kanazawa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Kanazawa?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kanazawa. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Kanazawa, 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 Seoul or Kanazawa?

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 Seoul or Kanazawa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Kanazawa. The summer months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kanazawa this time of year.

In July, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Kanazawa. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 180 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Kanazawa. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

Both Kanazawa and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kanazawa for the shopping scene.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Kanazawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Kanazawa in the Winter?

Both Kanazawa and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kanazawa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kanazawa can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Seoul. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Kanazawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 67 hours of full sun.

Kanazawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Kanazawa. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Kanazawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Kanazawa. Many visitors come to Seoul in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Seoul