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

Should you visit Seoul or Matsue?

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 Matsue can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food. See Seoul travel costs.

Matsue

Matsue is a serene, historic, and quiet town. The beauty of Matsue is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Matsue travel costs.

Seoul and Matsue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Matsue?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Matsue. Seoul is bigger than Matsue, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Matsue is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Matsue is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Matsue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Seoul and Matsue.

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 Matsue can be an interesting and educational experience. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

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

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Seoul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Matsue has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

Is Seoul or Matsue Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Matsue is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Seoul know how to have a good time. 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.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

Is Seoul or Matsue Better for Music?

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Matsue is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Seoul 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.

Matsue is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Matsue Better for its Old Town?

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

Many people head to Matsue to see the old town. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Matsue?

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Matsue has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Is Seoul or Matsue More Beautiful?

Matsue is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Matsue is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is a pretty town with a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and a lakefront setting.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Matsue Better for Families?

Seoul is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Seoul or Matsue Better for Couples?

Seoul is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Seoul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Matsue is a good city for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

Is Seoul or Matsue Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Matsue are notable 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 Matsue. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

Is Seoul or Matsue Better for Students?

Seoul is a great destination for students. However, Matsue is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seoul. 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.

Matsue is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Seoul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Matsue. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

Is Seoul or Matsue a more walkable city?

Seoul and Matsue both are superb 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.

Matsue is a very walkable destination. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

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

Should I spend more time in Matsue or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Matsue?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seoul and Matsue. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Matsue. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Matsue.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Matsue. 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 Matsue. 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 Matsue 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 Matsue?

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Matsue, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this serene destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Seoul or Matsue?

Seoul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Matsue. 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 Matsue?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Seoul or Matsue?

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the quiet destination of Matsue. 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Matsue?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Matsue. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Matsue, 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 Matsue?

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 Seoul or Matsue in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Matsue. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Matsue in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Matsue in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Matsue fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Matsue this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Matsue during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Matsue. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Matsue in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Matsue. Many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Matsue for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Seoul is around the same temperature as Matsue. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Matsue averages at about 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the autumn, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Matsue. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 173 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Matsue. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Matsue in the Winter?

Both Matsue and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Matsue because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Matsue can be very cold. Seoul can be very cold during winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Matsue. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Matsue fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 84 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Matsue. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Matsue in the Spring?

Both Matsue and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Matsue this time of year.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Matsue in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Matsue fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Matsue. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 194 hours of full sun.

Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in April than Matsue. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Matsue and Seoul