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

Should you visit Shanghai or Kanazawa?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Shanghai and Kanazawa. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a bustling, trendy, and modern port city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Shanghai 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.

Shanghai and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Kanazawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Shanghai than Kanazawa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Shanghai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kanazawa attracts visitors for its historical sights. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Kanazawa is famous for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens.

How is Shanghai different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Shanghai is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Shanghai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city's sights mix culture with modern innovation. From the futuristic skyline and the iconic waterfront area known as the Bund, to the classic Yu Garden, there are a diversity of sights around the city. There are also museums like the Shanghai Museum, which educate visitors on Chinese culture.

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 Shanghai or Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shanghai 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.

Shanghai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's cuisine has a long history with many distinct traditional dishes. The foods incorporate a lot of soy sauce and sugar and you'll find most dishes are rice based as opposed to using wheat products. Popular local dishes include the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, steamed crab, and braised pork. The city is also famous for its snacks, which can be purchased at one of the many snack houses or street stalls.

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 Shanghai or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Shanghai and Kanazawa.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Shanghai. A night out can quickly become very expensive. Many of the venues are spread out so you'll likely spend at least some of the time in a taxi. The Bund is one of the most popular areas for nightlife, but this area also has the most expensive bars and clubs. They often offer impressive views of Pudong and the Huangpu River though.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Shanghai or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Kanazawa is a good destination for its old town. However, Shanghai 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.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Kanazawa?

Shanghai 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 Shanghai. The city has many large shopping malls with department stores, name brand fashion, and trendy shops. It is also known for its cheap electronics and tailor-made clothes.

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 Shanghai or Kanazawa More Beautiful?

Shanghai is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Shanghai or Kanazawa Better for Families?

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

Shanghai is a very family-friendly destination. Of course there's Disneyland, but kids will also enjoy soaking up the city's culture, trying fun new snacks, and exploring the many science and kid-friendly museums. There are also parks and outdoor spaces as well as skyscrapers and towers that offer incredible views of the city.

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 Shanghai or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Shanghai has plenty to offer. With its east meets west personality, couples will be able to enjoy an amazing culinary experience, beautiful gardens, and luxury hotels and spas. There are many romantic areas around this bustling city, making it the perfect place for a romantic city 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 Shanghai or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Shanghai is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is expensive, but there are hostels and cheap eateries that make it accessible even for the budget conscious. Business travelers and local workers give the city a more professional vibe during the day, but if you find the right place to stay you'll quickly be able to meet likeminded travelers.

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

Is Shanghai or Kanazawa Better for Students?

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

Shanghai is very popular with students. The city attracts international and study abroad students who enjoy its long history and fascinating culture. It's a world financial capital with many businesses headquartered here, so employment opportunities are abundant.

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

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

Shanghai is great 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.

Public transit in Shanghai is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

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 Shanghai or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Kanazawa both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Shanghai is a very walkable port city. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer 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 Shanghai Worth Visiting? and Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Shanghai or Kanazawa to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Shanghai than Kanazawa because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kanazawa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shanghai 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 Shanghai.

One day in Shanghai or Kanazawa?

Shanghai 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.

The city of Kanazawa offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Kanazawa?

Shanghai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shanghai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kanazawa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kanazawa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Kanazawa?

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

Kanazawa is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Shanghai or Kanazawa?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Kanazawa is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Kanazawa?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kanazawa. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai 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 Shanghai 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 Shanghai or Kanazawa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Kanazawa. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Kanazawa in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Shanghai this time of the year. In the summer, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 180 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than Kanazawa. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

Both Kanazawa and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kanazawa for the shopping scene during these months.

Shanghai is a little warmer than Kanazawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 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, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Kanazawa in the Winter?

Both Kanazawa and Shanghai during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kanazawa can be very cold. Shanghai can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Shanghai is a little warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Shanghai gets 135 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. Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Kanazawa. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Kanazawa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Kanazawa. The spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Shanghai is generally a little warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Kanazawa during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Shanghai