A super useful guide for 4 days in Chiang Mai

[Day 1] Start off leisurely with a stroll around the old town and cafes

■Recommended plan:

• Arrive in Chiang Mai → Check in at hotel

• Tour the temples in the old town (Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, etc.)

• Lunch: Khao Soi (Khao Soi Khun Yai, etc.)

• Cafe hopping (Ristr8to, Graph Cafe, etc.)

• Street food and shopping at the night market (Sunday Market and Night Bazaar)

■Points:

• The old town is within walking and cycling distance.

• When choosing street food, choose a shop that is safe from a hygienic stand.

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[Day 2] Get active with nature and activities!

■Recommended plan:

•Morning: Interact with elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary

•Afternoon: Visit Doi Suthep Temple (a great spot with a panoramic view of the city)

•Evening: Stroll through the stylish cafes and general stores on Nimmanhaemin Road

•Evening: Have a drink at the night market or rooftop bar

■Points:

• Rather than riding an elephant, we recommend the conservation-oriented Elephant Nature Park.

• Nimmanhaemin is a trendy spot popular with local young people and Western tourists.

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[Day 3] A relaxing day with a trip to the suburbs and a massage

■Recommended plan:

•Morning: Enjoy the spectacular view and sunrise at Mon Chaem (chartering a car is convenient)

•Lunch: Relax at a farm cafe (Chom Cafe, etc.)

•Afternoon: Thai traditional massage (Fah Lanna Spa, etc.)

•Evening: Dinner with local cuisine (Huen Phen, The Riverside, etc.)

■Points:

• Mon Chaem is a photogenic natural spot. It's sure to look great on Instagram.

• It's best to make a reservation for the spa in advance. Even high-end spas are cheaper and of higher quality than in Japan.

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[Day 4] Enjoy souvenirs and your last moments

■ Recommended plan:

• Morning: Search for souvenirs at local markets (Warorot Market, etc.)

• Lunch: Last Thai meal at a local restaurant

• Afternoon: Check out → Head to the airport

■ Recommended souvenirs:

• Natural soaps and cosmetics (Harnn, THANN, etc.)

• Organic herbal tea

• Handmade goods and silver accessories

• Mango dried fruit and Thai tea

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[Transportation tips]

• Airport → City: About 20 minutes by Grab (ride-hailing app) or taxi.

• City sightseeing: Walking, songthaews (red shared taxis), tuk-tuks, rental motorbikes.

• Suburban areas: It's convenient to charter a car or use a tour.

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[Budget (per person)]
• Airfare: 40,000-60,000 yen round trip (varies depending on the season)
• Accommodation (mid-range hotel): 3,000-6,000 yen per night
• Meals: 1,500 yen and up per day
• Activities/spa: 3,000-6,000 yen per day