A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagano vs. Milford Sound for Hiking, Skiing, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nagano or Milford Sound?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nagano and Milford Sound 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.

Nagano

Nagano is a scenic, historic, and traditional city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Nagano attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Nagano travel costs.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a iconic, breathtaking, and world renowned fiord. Many visitors also come to Milford Sound because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the skiing and hiking. See Milford Sound travel costs.

Nagano and Milford Sound: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Milford Sound?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagano. Although Nagano and Milford Sound are both popular with visitors, Nagano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagano is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Milford Sound is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Nagano is more touristy than Milford Sound and is known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also home to Zenko-ji Temple. Milford Sound is popular for its iconic hiking trails, stunning boat tours, and dramatic mountains.

How is Nagano different from Milford Sound?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Skiing?

For skiing and winter sports, both Nagano and Milford Sound provide very good options.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Nagano. 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.

Milford Sound is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. Many locals head to the snow-capped peaks to enjoy skiing, but if you're unfamiliar with the area, a ski tour is your best option.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagano or Milford Sound?

Nagano is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Nagano or Milford Sound? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagano is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Nagano has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

While Milford Sound is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. You'll find a restaurant or two in the small town of Milford Sound. Your best option is the Milford Sound Lodge. In the park you'll want to come prepared with your own food. Many organized tours include a picnic lunch.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for nightlife.

Nagano has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Milford Sound. Things get quiet at night and there's little in the form of nightlife.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Milford Sound is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Milford Sound is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Milford Sound does not have a historic old town.

Nagano has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Milford Sound does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Hiking?

Milford Sound is terrific for hiking. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Around Milford Sound visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The Milford Track has long been considered one of the world's best hikes. It's also, arguably, the most famous hike in New Zealand. The 53 kilometer trek takes you from Lake Te Anau through stunning scenery, alpine settings, and across spectacular suspension bridges.

Nagano is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Milford Sound?

Nagano is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nagano has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound More Beautiful?

Milford Sound is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Milford Sound because of it's amazing beauty. This is one of the most spectacular natural settings in New Zealand. The remoteness, combined with the mountains, waterfalls, and stunning views make this a true bucket list destination.

With stunning beauty, Nagano attracts visitors from all around. The city is found in a beautiful part of Japan. It's surrounded by mountains and filled with history and historic sights.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Milford Sound are very good to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. 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.

Milford Sound is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wonders will impress the kids as much as the adults. There are shorter walks that are family-friendly and the boat rides are also fun for the whole family. You can take a scenic flight or visit the stunning Mirror Lakes. This really is a playground for both kids and adults.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Couples?

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

Milford Sound is a great fiord if you're traveling as a couple. This is one of the most stunning natural areas in the world, and the romance comes from the spectacular beauty, world class hikes, and breathtaking surroundings that will leave you awed and inspired.

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 Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Milford Sound are good places to visit.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Milford Sound. The area's remoteness and high price tag make it a bit challenging for backpackers and budget travelers. If you have plenty of time and enough money, it is truly a not to be missed destination.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound Better for Students?

Nagano is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Milford Sound is not popular with students.

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

Milford Sound is not popular with students.

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

Nagano is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its public transit.

Nagano has some 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. .

Public transit is generally limited in Milford Sound. There are buses in the area, but private vehicles or organized tours are your best option for getting around.

Is Nagano or Milford Sound a more walkable city?

Nagano is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its walkability.

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.

Milford Sound is not a walkable city. This is one of the most remote places in New Zealand so you really must have a car or organized transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagano Worth Visiting? and Is Milford Sound Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milford Sound or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Milford Sound?

Nagano and Milford Sound both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Milford Sound than Nagano because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-6 days is enough time in Milford Sound.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagano than Milford Sound 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 Nagano.

One day in Nagano or Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the alpine destination of Nagano. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing when visiting the destination of Milford Sound. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Milford Sound?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Milford Sound is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagano or Milford Sound?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic destination of Nagano. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milford Sound. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagano or Milford Sound?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Nagano. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the skiing when visiting the world renowned destination of Milford Sound. This fiord offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagano and Milford Sound, we can see that Milford Sound is more expensive. And not only is Nagano much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nagano is in Asia and Milford Sound is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Milford Sound would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milford Sound 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 Nagano Expensive? and Is Milford Sound Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Milford Sound?

Nagano has a larger population, and is about 830 times larger than the population of Milford Sound. When comparing the sizes of Nagano and Milford Sound, 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.