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

Should you visit Tokyo or Nagoya?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagoya? 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 eclectic, cutting edge, and high tech city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a often overlooked, under-the-radar, and under-rated city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo and Nagoya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Nagoya?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo than Nagoya. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tokyo is more touristy than Nagoya and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Nagoya is famous for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry.

How is Tokyo different from Nagoya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tokyo is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Many visitors head to Nagoya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Tokyo and Nagoya.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Nagoya has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

Is Tokyo or Nagoya Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Tokyo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Nagoya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Is Tokyo or Nagoya Better for Music?

Tokyo is very popular for its music scene. However, Nagoya is not a live music destination.

Tokyo has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Nagoya is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Nagoya?

Tokyo is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Tokyo specifically to go shopping. 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.

Nagoya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Is Tokyo or Nagoya Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tokyo or Nagoya.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tokyo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Nagoya is one of the most popular family destinations. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

Is Tokyo or Nagoya Better for Couples?

Tokyo is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Tokyo makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Tokyo or Nagoya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Nagoya are nice 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.

Nagoya is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Tokyo or Nagoya Better for Students?

Tokyo is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Tokyo. 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.

Nagoya is popular with students. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

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

Tokyo is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Tokyo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

Public transit in Nagoya is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

Is Tokyo or Nagoya a more walkable city?

Tokyo is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Nagoya is very walkable. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nagoya or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Nagoya?

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

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Nagoya. 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 Nagoya. 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 Nagoya 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 Nagoya?

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 Nagoya, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-the-radar big city offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city 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 Tokyo or Nagoya?

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 Nagoya. 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 Tokyo or Nagoya?

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.

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

A week in Tokyo or Nagoya?

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 food and shopping around the under-the-radar big city of Nagoya. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Nagoya, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Nagoya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nagoya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nagoya 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 Nagoya.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Nagoya?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nagoya. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Nagoya, 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 Nagoya?

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 Nagoya in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Nagoya. The summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Nagoya in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Nagoya fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Nagoya during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 170 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nagoya receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagoya in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Nagoya. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nagoya for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Tokyo is around the same temperature as Nagoya. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Nagoya averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Nagoya. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagoya. Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Nagoya. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagoya in the Winter?

Both Nagoya and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Nagoya in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nagoya can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 5°C (42°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nagoya during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nagoya. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nagoya in the Spring?

Both Nagoya and Tokyo during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Nagoya for the activities around the city during these months.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Nagoya in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Nagoya fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Nagoya. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 189 hours of full sun.

Nagoya 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 April than Nagoya. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nagoya and Tokyo