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

Should you visit Yokohama or Nagano?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Nagano, 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.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a laid-back, diverse, and bright city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nagano

Nagano is a historic, traditional, and alpine city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Yokohama and Nagano: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Yokohama or Nagano?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Nagano than Yokohama. While Yokohama is larger than Nagano, Nagano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nagano is very popular for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Yokohama attracts visitors for its shopping and big city activities. Nagano is more touristy than Yokohama and is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also well known for Zenko-ji Temple. Yokohama is famous for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Yokohama different from Nagano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Yokohama or Nagano Better for Skiing?

Yokohama
Nagano

Nagano is well known for winter skiing. However, Yokohama is not a skiing destination.

Nagano is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Yokohama is not a skiing destination.


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

Yokohama
Nagano

Both Yokohama and Nagano have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Yokohama can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

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

Yokohama
Nagano

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Yokohama and Nagano.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yokohama makes for a great culinary experience. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Nagano has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Yokohama or Nagano Better for Nightlife?

Yokohama
Nagano

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Yokohama and Nagano.

Yokohama is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Many people head to Nagano for the nightlife scene. 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 Yokohama or Nagano Better for Resorts?

Yokohama
Nagano

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Is Yokohama or Nagano Better for its Old Town?

Yokohama
Nagano

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nagano to see the historical old town. 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.

Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Is Yokohama or Nagano Better for Hiking?

Yokohama
Nagano

Nagano is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nagano. 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.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Nagano?

Yokohama
Nagano

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

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

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 Yokohama or Nagano Better for Families?

Yokohama
Nagano

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

Yokohama is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

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 Yokohama or Nagano Better for Couples?

Yokohama
Nagano

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

Yokohama is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

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 Yokohama or Nagano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yokohama
Nagano

Yokohama and Nagano are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Yokohama. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Nagano is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Yokohama or Nagano Better for Students?

Yokohama
Nagano

Yokohama and Nagano are nice places to visit for students.

Yokohama is popular with students. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

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

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

Yokohama
Nagano

Yokohama is a great city 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 public transit in Yokohama can get you around easily. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

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 Yokohama or Nagano a more walkable city?

Yokohama
Nagano

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

Yokohama is a very walkable city. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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 Yokohama Worth Visiting? and Is Nagano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagano or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Nagano?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Yokohama or Nagano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yokohama 1-2 
    Nagano 1-3

One day in Yokohama or Nagano?

Yokohama is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful city of Nagano offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Yokohama or Nagano?

Yokohama 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.

Nagano 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nagano, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Yokohama or Nagano?

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

Nagano 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 Yokohama or Nagano?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated big city of Yokohama. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Nagano is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Tours for Seniors to Japan, The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.


Which place is cheaper, Nagano or Yokohama?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Yokohama is $125, while the average daily cost in Nagano is $91. 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 Yokohama and Nagano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yokohama $70
    Nagano $61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yokohama $140
    Nagano $122
Compare Hotels in Yokohama and Nagano

Looking for a hotel in Yokohama or Nagano? 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 Yokohama


Hotels in Nagano


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: Yokohama Hotel Prices and Nagano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yokohama $21
    Nagano $9.91

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yokohama

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Yokohama:

  • Shuttle Van Transfer from Yokohama City to Narita Airport: $363
  • Narita Airport to/from Yokohama Private Transfer: $301
  • Narita Airport: Private One-Way Transfer to/from Yokohama: $264
  • Private Departure Transfer : Yokohama City to Narita International Airport: $250
  • Tokyo private transfer for Yokohama Port: $236
  • Narita Airport - Yokohama City/Port Private One-way Transfer: $217
  • Yokohama Port: Private Transfer from/to Haneda Airport: $205
  • Yokohama Port: Private Arrival Transfers to Tokyo City Center: $189
  • Yokohama Port: Private Transfer to/from Tokyo: $183
  • Yokohama Port: Private transfer to/from Tokyo/HND airport: $165
  • Yokohama Private Departure Transfer : from Yokohama Port or Hotels to Tokyo Hotels: $158
  • Haneda Airport: Private One-Way Transfer to/from Yokohama: $148

Is it cheaper to fly into Yokohama or Nagano?

Prices for flights to both Nagano and Yokohama 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
    Yokohama $38
    Nagano $22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yokohama

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Yokohama.

  • Easy Ramen cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $27
  • Sushi Roll and Side Dish Cooking Experience in Tokyo: $68
  • 3-Hour Shared Halal-Friendly Japanese Cooking Class in Tokyo: $85
  • Shinjuku Izakaya Food Tour: $112
  • Half-day Cooking Class in Yokohama Local Shopping District: $128
  • Adventurous Japanese Food Tour: $128
  • Experience Izakaya With A Mini Food Tour Of Tokyo: $167
  • Night Food Tour Starting Ginza: $169
  • Yokohama Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $187
  • Tokyo Allstar Food Tour: $245

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yokohama $30
    Nagano $8.26

Tours and Activities in Yokohama

Here are a few actual costs in Yokohama for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 'Feel Yokohama!'Private tour in English: $86
  • "Heart of Yokohama" Walking: Experience Hill Area: $46
  • 3 Hours Private Edo Tokyo Shinjuku Entertainment Tour: $34
  • Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo : Enter the Sanctuary: $142
  • Calligraphy Art Experience Led by a Japanese Language Instructor: $59
  • Calligraphy Experience in Kabukicho: $68
  • Cup Noodles Museum Tour with Guide in Yokohama: $67
  • Experience Comparing Sake and Delicacies in shinjyuku: $34
  • Experience the history of shamisen and traveling entertainers: $108
  • Exploration Tour of Tsukiji Fish Market: $89
  • From Tokyo/Mount Fuji Private Tour with Pickup: $505
  • Ginza Night Local Foodie Small Group Tour : $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yokohama $18
    Nagano -

Sample the Local Flavors in Yokohama

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Yokohama:

  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: $26
  • Tokyo Hidden Izakaya and Sake Small-Group Pub Tour with Local Guide: $169


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yokohama and Nagano, we can see that Yokohama 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 Yokohama would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yokohama 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 Yokohama Expensive? and Is Nagano Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Nagano?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama 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 Yokohama or Nagano?

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 Yokohama or Nagano in the Summer?

Both Nagano and Yokohama during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nagano for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Yokohama is around the same temperature as Nagano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yokohama in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Nagano averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In the summer, Yokohama often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nagano. Yokohama gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 136 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 Yokohama. Yokohama usually gets less rain in July than Nagano. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yokohama 25°C (78°F) 
    Nagano 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Yokohama or Nagano in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Nagano. Many travelers come to Yokohama for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nagano in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Yokohama is generally a little warmer than Nagano. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 18°C (64°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Nagano during autumn. Yokohama gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Yokohama usually receives less rain than Nagano. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 227 mm (9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yokohama 18°C (64°F) 
    Nagano 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Yokohama or Nagano in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Nagano. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Nagano for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nagano can be very cold during winter. Yokohama is much warmer than Nagano in the winter. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Nagano fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nagano. In the winter, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Nagano. Yokohama gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagano receives 212 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. Yokohama usually gets less rain in January than Nagano. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yokohama 6°C (42°F) 
    Nagano 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Yokohama or Nagano in the Spring?

Both Nagano and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Yokohama for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nagano because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Yokohama is a little warmer than Nagano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yokohama in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Nagano averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Nagano during spring. Yokohama gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Nagano receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In April, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Nagano. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yokohama 14°C (58°F) 
    Nagano 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Nagano and Yokohama

Yokohama Nagano
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 446 mm (17.5 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 275 mm (10.8 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 191 mm (7.5 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (62°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 221 mm (8.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 138 mm (5.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 222 mm (8.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 26°C (80°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 232 mm (9.1 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 175 mm (6.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 227 mm (9 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 339 mm (13.3 in)
Dec 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 440 mm (17.3 in)


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