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Chiang Mai vs Tokyo

Can't choose between Chiang Mai and Tokyo? Look at cost, timing, and the kind of trip you want. If money is the main thing, Chiang Mai is cheaper.

January, February, March
Best time to visit
March, April, October
$130cheaper
Typical cost / day
¥23,700
USD
Currency
JPY
4 days
Ideal length
5 days
18 spots
Live highlights
14 spots

Top things to do in Chiang Mai

  • Mueang Chiang Mai district
  • Three Kings Monument
  • Wat Prasat, Mueang Chiang Mai
  • Lanna Folklife Museum
  • Local food tour of Chiang Mai

Top things to do in Tokyo

  • Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa
  • Meiji Shrine & Harajuku
  • teamLab Planets digital art museum
  • Imperial Palace East Gardens
  • Tsukiji Outer Market food crawl

So, Chiang Mai or Tokyo?

C

Chiang Mai is the pick if you want better value and highlights like Mueang Chiang Mai district and Three Kings Monument. Best visited January or February.

T

Tokyo is the better call for Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa and Meiji Shrine & Harajuku. Best visited March or April.

Chiang Mai vs Tokyo: questions

Is Chiang Mai or Tokyo cheaper?+

Chiang Mai is generally the more affordable of the two. Budget roughly $130/day for Chiang Mai and ¥23,700/day for Tokyo for a mid-range trip, before flights.

Chiang Mai or Tokyo, which has better weather?+

Chiang Mai is best in January, February, March, while Tokyo shines in March, April, October. Pick the one whose ideal window matches your travel dates.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Tokyo first?+

Pick the one that matches the trip you want. The comparison above is a start. Then plan whichever you choose.

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