A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yamaguchi vs. Kanazawa for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Kanazawa, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a traditional, serene, and tranquil town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a well-preserved, historic, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kanazawa than Yamaguchi. Kanazawa is bigger than Yamaguchi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kanazawa is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Yamaguchi is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Kanazawa is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens. Also, Kanazawa is famous for Kenroku-en Garden. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Kanazawa and Yamaguchi.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Yamaguchi can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kanazawa. 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 Yamaguchi or Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Yamaguchi and Kanazawa offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Yamaguchi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kanazawa makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Yamaguchi or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Kanazawa is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Yamaguchi or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Kanazawa is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.

Kanazawa has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.

Is Yamaguchi or Kanazawa Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi is very good for hiking. However, Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Yamaguchi. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kanazawa. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Yamaguchi and Kanazawa are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Yamaguchi is a family-friendly town. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanazawa. 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 Yamaguchi or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

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

Yamaguchi is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

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 Yamaguchi or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi and Kanazawa are both notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Yamaguchi. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

Kanazawa is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Yamaguchi or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Kanazawa is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Kanazawa. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Yamaguchi and Kanazawa.

Yamaguchi has some public transit options. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

You'll find some public transit in Kanazawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Yamaguchi or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Kanazawa is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Yamaguchi is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting? and Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa to fill your time. In our opinion, Kanazawa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kanazawa than Yamaguchi. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kanazawa than Yamaguchi 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 Kanazawa.

One day in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

The beautiful town of Yamaguchi offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kanazawa. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kanazawa has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the well-preserved destination of Kanazawa. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

Yamaguchi 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the well-preserved city of Kanazawa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

Yamaguchi 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 town offers something for everyone.

Kanazawa is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi or Kanazawa?

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 Yamaguchi or Kanazawa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Kanazawa. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Kanazawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yamaguchi in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 26°C (78°F).

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yamaguchi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Kanazawa. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Kanazawa. The autumn months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Kanazawa this time of year.

In October, Yamaguchi is generally a little warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 19°C (65°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Kanazawa. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Kanazawa in the Winter?

Both Kanazawa and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kanazawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kanazawa. Yamaguchi is much warmer than Kanazawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. In January, Yamaguchi usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Kanazawa in the Spring?

Both Kanazawa and Yamaguchi during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Yamaguchi is a little warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yamaguchi in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Kanazawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Kanazawa. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Yamaguchi