A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Matsue for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Da Nang or Matsue?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Matsue? 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.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. And you can't forget about the beaches, museums, and nightlife. See Da Nang travel costs.

Matsue

Matsue is a pretty, serene, and historic town. The beauty of Matsue is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Matsue travel costs.

Da Nang and Matsue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Matsue?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Matsue than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Matsue, Matsue has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Matsue is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Matsue is more touristy than Da Nang and is known for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere. Also, Matsue is famous for the Matsue Castle. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Matsue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Matsue?

Matsue is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Matsue offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Is the Food Better in Da Nang or Matsue? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Da Nang and Matsue.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Matsue has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Matsue is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Da Nang know how to have a good time. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is a great destination for its resorts. However, Matsue is not a resort destination.

In Da Nang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Matsue is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a city with good options for the beach. However, Matsue is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Da Nang. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Matsue is not a beach destination.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for its Old Town?

Matsue is a popular place for its old town. However, Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Matsue to see the old town. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Matsue?

Matsue is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Matsue offers some nice shopping areas. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Matsue More Beautiful?

Matsue is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Matsue is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is a pretty town with a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and a lakefront setting.

Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for Families?

Da Nang is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for Couples?

Da Nang is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Da Nang frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Matsue is a good city for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Da Nang and Matsue are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Da Nang. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Matsue is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

Is Da Nang or Matsue Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Matsue is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Matsue can get you around easily. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

Da Nang has some public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Is Da Nang or Matsue a more walkable city?

Matsue is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Matsue is a very walkable town. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Matsue Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Matsue or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Matsue?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Matsue than Da Nang 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 Matsue.

One day in Da Nang or Matsue?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Matsue, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Da Nang or Matsue?

Da Nang 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.

In Matsue, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Matsue has to offer.

Five days in Da Nang or Matsue?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Da Nang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Matsue is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Da Nang or Matsue?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Da Nang. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Matsue. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Matsue. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Matsue?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Matsue. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang and Matsue, 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 Da Nang or Matsue?

Matsue has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Da Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Da Nang or Matsue in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Matsue. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Matsue for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Da Nang is a little warmer than Matsue in the summer. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Matsue fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Matsue this time of the year. In Da Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Da Nang usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during summer. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Matsue. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Matsue in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Matsue. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Matsue because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Da Nang is much warmer than Matsue. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Da Nang in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Matsue averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Da Nang often gets less sunshine than Matsue. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 173 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Da Nang usually gets more rain in October than Matsue. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year. August to December in Da Nang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Da Nang or Matsue in the Winter?

Both Matsue and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Matsue this time of year.

It's quite cold in Matsue in the winter. In January, Da Nang is generally much warmer than Matsue. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 22°C (71°F), and Matsue fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Da Nang usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during winter. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 84 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. It's quite rainy in Da Nang. In January, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Matsue. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Da Nang is January to July.

Should I visit Da Nang or Matsue in the Spring?

Both Matsue and Da Nang during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Matsue for the natural beauty.

Da Nang is much warmer than Matsue in the spring. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Matsue fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Da Nang. In the spring, Da Nang often gets more sunshine than Matsue. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 194 hours of full sun.

Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Da Nang usually gets less rain in April than Matsue. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Matsue and Da Nang