A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Ise for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hanoi or Ise?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hanoi and Ise can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a cultural, historical, and fascinating city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Hanoi travel costs.

Ise

Ise is a overlooked, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Ise travel costs.

Hanoi and Ise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Ise?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hanoi than Ise. Hanoi is bigger than Ise, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hanoi is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Ise is more popular for its beaches. Hanoi is more touristy than Ise and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Ise is well known for its important Shinto shrines and its coastal setting.

How is Hanoi different from Ise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hanoi or Ise?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ise. While this is an often overlooked part of Japan for tourists, those who venture here will enjoy strolling through the forest and visiting the shrine complex of Ise Jingu.

Is the Food Better in Hanoi or Ise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Hanoi and Ise.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hanoi. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Ise has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find some of Japan's best seafood around town and there are many local delicacies. Head to the downtown area around Iseshi Station to find a high concentration of places. One local specialty is the Japanese spiny lobster (also known as the Ise lobster).

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Ise is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Hanoi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

Ise doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most visitors don't stay long enough to take in the nightlife, which is limited.

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for Beaches?

Ise is a city with good options for the beach. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Ise. There are several nice and sandy beaches in the area that make for a nice break from the sightseeing.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Ise does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Hanoi can be explored in its historical center. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

Ise does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Ise?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Ise has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a shopping street in town with many of the shops housed in traditional buildings, giving the area a nice character.

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for Families?

Both Hanoi and Ise are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hanoi. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Ise offers lots of family activities. The Ise Jingu Shrine complex is large and sprawling, and has the feel of a park. The kids will likely find visiting all of the temples tedious, but the forest is peaceful and the setting is beautiful.

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Ise are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hanoi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Ise is a good city for couples to visit. This is an off-the-beaten path destination that is far more than a shrine - it's a complex of shrines. It's spread out over a large space and filled with forest and peaceful walks that couples will enjoy.

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hanoi. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ise. It's off the radar for many backpackers, but those that make it here will find a couple of hostels and affordable accommodation options.

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for Students?

Hanoi is well known for students. However, Ise is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

Ise is not popular with students.

Is Hanoi or Ise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ise is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Ise, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The CAN Bus is a tourist bus that connects the train stations to the main attractions and runs every half hour.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Hanoi or Ise a more walkable city?

Hanoi and Ise both are notable when exploring on foot.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

Ise is a somewhat walkable city. There are walking paths through the complex that connect the shrines, but some of the distances can be significant.

For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Ise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ise or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Ise?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hanoi and Ise. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi than in Ise. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Ise 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 Hanoi.

One day in Hanoi or Ise?

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Ise, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hanoi or Ise?

Many people visit Hanoi for a weekend. When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ise. 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 Hanoi or Ise?

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Ise is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Ise. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Ise?

Hanoi, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find food and shopping around the overlooked destination of Ise. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Vietnam, The Best G Adventures Tours to Vietnam, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Ise?

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

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

Should I visit Hanoi or Ise in the Summer?

Both Ise and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ise this time of year.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Ise in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Ise fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ise. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In July, Hanoi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ise. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Ise receives 219 mm (8.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Should I visit Hanoi or Ise in the Autumn?

Both Ise and Hanoi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Ise for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Hanoi is a little warmer than Ise. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Ise averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Ise gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets less rain in October than Ise. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Ise receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Ise in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Ise. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, many visitors come to Ise in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ise can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Ise. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Ise fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Ise. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Ise receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Ise in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Ise. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Ise for the beaches during these months.

Hanoi is much warmer than Ise in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Ise fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite rainy in Ise. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hanoi usually gets less rain in April than Ise. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Ise receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Ise and Hanoi