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

Should you visit Seoul or Yokohama?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a colorful, under-rated, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seoul and Yokohama: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Yokohama?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul than Yokohama. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Yokohama is famous for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Seoul different from Yokohama?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Seoul and Yokohama.

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 Yokohama can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

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

Seoul is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Seoul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Yokohama has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Is Seoul or Yokohama Better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Yokohama are excellent when it comes to partying.

Seoul offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Yokohama has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is Seoul or Yokohama Better for Music?

Seoul is terrific for live music. However, Yokohama is not a live music destination.

Seoul is a world class music destination. 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.

Yokohama is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Yokohama?

Seoul is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Seoul is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Seoul or Yokohama Better for Families?

Yokohama is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Yokohama is one of the most popular family destinations. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Seoul. 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.

Is Seoul or Yokohama Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Yokohama are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Yokohama makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

Is Seoul or Yokohama Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Yokohama 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 Yokohama. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Seoul or Yokohama Better for Students?

Seoul is well known for students. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Seoul can take you anywhere. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Yokohama has some very good public transit options. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

Is Seoul or Yokohama a more walkable city?

Seoul and Yokohama both are excellent 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.

Yokohama is a very walkable destination. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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

Should I spend more time in Yokohama or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Yokohama?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Seoul or Yokohama to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Seoul than Yokohama 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 Yokohama.

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

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Yokohama. 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 Yokohama 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 Yokohama?

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 Yokohama, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this laid-back big city 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 Yokohama?

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 Yokohama. 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 Yokohama?

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.

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

A week in Seoul or Yokohama?

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 diverse big city of Yokohama. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Yokohama?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Yokohama. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Yokohama, 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 Yokohama?

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 Yokohama in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Yokohama. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Yokohama for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Yokohama during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 137 hours of full sun in the summer.

Yokohama 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 Yokohama. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Yokohama in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Yokohama. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Yokohama in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Seoul is cooler than Yokohama in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Yokohama fluctuates around 18°C (64°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 Yokohama. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 129 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yokohama. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Yokohama. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Yokohama in the Winter?

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

Seoul can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Yokohama. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Yokohama averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Yokohama during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 175 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Yokohama. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Yokohama in the Spring?

Both Yokohama and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the activities around the city.

In April, Seoul is generally cooler than Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Yokohama. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 161 hours of full sun.

Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in April than Yokohama. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Yokohama and Seoul