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. ⸻ [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. ⸻ [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. ⸻ [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 ⸻ [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. ⸻ [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