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

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Nagoya, 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 tranquil, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

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 food, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi and Nagoya: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagoya than Yamaguchi. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nagoya is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yamaguchi attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Yamaguchi is more touristy than Nagoya and is known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways. Nagoya is famous for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. It is also well known for the Nagoya Castle.

How is Yamaguchi different from Nagoya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Nagoya 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 Nagoya. 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 Yamaguchi or Nagoya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

Nagoya is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yamaguchi makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Yamaguchi or Nagoya Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

Nagoya is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Nagoya has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Nagoya Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

Yamaguchi is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Yamaguchi is a good destination for hiking. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nagoya. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Nagoya Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

Nagoya is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Nagoya is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yamaguchi. 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.

Is Yamaguchi or Nagoya Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

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

Yamaguchi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

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 Yamaguchi or Nagoya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

Yamaguchi and Nagoya are both nice 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.

Nagoya is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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 Yamaguchi or Nagoya Better for Students?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

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

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

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

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

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

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

The public transit in Nagoya can get you to most places easily. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Yamaguchi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the city and prefecture.


Is Yamaguchi or Nagoya a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Nagoya

Nagoya 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.

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

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 Nagoya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagoya or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Yamaguchi and Nagoya. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nagoya than in Yamaguchi. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yamaguchi, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nagoya.

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

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


  • How many days in Yamaguchi or Nagoya? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yamaguchi 1-2 
    Nagoya 2-3

One day in Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Yamaguchi. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

People visit Nagoya because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Yamaguchi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Nagoya because there is so much to do. 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 Nagoya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yamaguchi. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-the-radar city of Nagoya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Nagoya 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nagoya or Yamaguchi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Yamaguchi is $80, while the average daily cost in Nagoya is $89. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Yamaguchi and Nagoya in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $46
    Nagoya $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $92
    Nagoya $92
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Nagoya

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Nagoya? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Yamaguchi


Hotels in Nagoya


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Yamaguchi Hotel Prices and Nagoya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $20
    Nagoya $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yamaguchi

Also for Yamaguchi, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Yamaguchi Ube Airport To/From Yamaguch City Private Transfer: $129

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagoya

Also for Nagoya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Nagoya hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $65
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya city hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port : $130
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Int Airport (ITM) to Shimizu Port: $163
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya hotels: $65
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Airport (NGO): $85
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Airport NKM to Shimizu Cruise Port: $179
  • Private Transfer between Chubu Centrair Int'l Airport and Nagoya: $287
  • Private Transfer - Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO): $93
  • Private Departure Transfer Nagoya City to Chubu Centrair International Airport: $181
  • Private One-Way Transfers to/from Suzuka Circuit: $276
  • Nagoya to Nagoya Int Airport NGO, Departure Private Transfer: $72
  • Nagoya airport to/from LEGOLAND Private transfer: $193

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Prices for flights to both Nagoya and Yamaguchi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Yamaguchi $22
    Nagoya $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • gided japanese food tour in okazaki(aichi): $86
  • Market Tour and Authentic Nagoya Cuisine Cooking Class With a Local in Her Home: $92
  • Specialties of Nagoya Food Tour: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.39
    Nagoya $13

Tours and Activities in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Autumn Leaves Private Tour in Nagoya: $165
  • Cartoon experience course for travelers: $33
  • Day Tour with Ghibli Park Admission Ticket Round Trip from Nagoya: $180
  • Experience Japanese calligraphy & tea ceremony at a traditional house in Nagoya: $113
  • From Gujo, Hida Takayama, and Shirakawa-go Day Tour: $62
  • From Ise Grand Shrine Day Tour: $62
  • Full-Day Kisoji Nakasendo Trail Tour from Nagoya: $233
  • Full-Day Small-Group Tour in Ise Jingu: $234
  • Ghibli Park Ticket and Accommodation 2 Days Package (No Guide): $185
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Tokugawa Museum and Garden: $147
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $120
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Noritake Garden & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $113

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $7.92
    Nagoya $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Nagoya

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nagoya:

  • Restaurant and Bar Crawl in Nagoya Japan: $40
  • Pub Crawl in Nagoya: $47


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


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Nagoya?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi or Nagoya in the Summer?

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

Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Nagoya in the summer. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Nagoya fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Nagoya. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Nagoya 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Nagoya in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Nagoya. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Yamaguchi in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Nagoya averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Nagoya. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Nagoya 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Nagoya in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Nagoya. The winter months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nagoya in the winter. In January, Yamaguchi is generally a little warmer than Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 6°C (42°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In January, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Nagoya. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Nagoya 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Nagoya in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Nagoya. The natural beauty are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nagoya for the activities around the city.

Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Nagoya in the spring. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Nagoya fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Nagoya. Yamaguchi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yamaguchi usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nagoya. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Nagoya 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Nagoya and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Nagoya
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 157 mm (6.2 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 213 mm (8.4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 27°C (80°F) 213 mm (8.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 204 mm (8 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)