A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Tokyo vs. Nagano for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Nagano?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagano? 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.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high tech, high energy, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nagano

Nagano is a traditional, alpine, and scenic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Tokyo and Nagano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Nagano?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Nagano, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nagano is known for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, and hiking. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Nagano is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games.

How is Tokyo different from Nagano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Skiing?

Nagano is great for skiing. However, Tokyo is not a skiing destination.

Nagano draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Tokyo is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tokyo or Nagano?

Tokyo is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Tokyo are world-renowned. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Is the Food Better in Tokyo or Nagano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Dining out in Nagano is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Tokyo is a must-see party destination. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Music?

Tokyo is terrific for its live music scene. However, Nagano is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Tokyo. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Nagano is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Nagano has an old town worth visiting. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Hiking?

Nagano is great for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nagano for the hiking trails. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Nagano?

Tokyo is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Tokyo draws large crowds to its stores. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Families?

Tokyo is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Nagano is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Couples?

Tokyo is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Nagano are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Nagano is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Students?

Tokyo is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Tokyo is a very popular city for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Is Tokyo or Nagano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Tokyo can take you anywhere. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Is Tokyo or Nagano a more walkable city?

Tokyo is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Tokyo is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Nagano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagano or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Nagano?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Nagano. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Nagano. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 1-3 days is enough time in Nagano.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Nagano 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 Tokyo.

One day in Tokyo or Nagano?

Tokyo 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 Nagano, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this traditional destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tokyo or Nagano?

Tokyo 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 Nagano. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Tokyo or Nagano?

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

Nagano is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Nagano. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Nagano?

Tokyo 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 museums and skiing around the alpine destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Nagano?

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

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 Tokyo or Nagano in the Summer?

Both Nagano and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Nagano for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Nagano. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nagano during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Nagano. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagano in the Autumn?

Both Nagano and Tokyo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tokyo is a little warmer than Nagano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Nagano fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Nagano. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 167 hours of full sun.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets less rain in October than Nagano. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 227 mm (9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagano in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Nagano. The winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagano this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nagano in the winter. In the winter, Tokyo is much warmer than Nagano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Nagano averages at about 2°C (36°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nagano this time of the year. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Nagano during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Nagano. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagano in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Nagano. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Nagano. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Nagano. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 191 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Nagano. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nagano and Tokyo