Chiang Mai vs Hiroshima

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has a tropical savanna climate with three distinct seasons: hot, rainy, and cool. The city sits in a valley which traps heat and, unfortunately, smoke during the burning season (February-April).

Hiroshima

Hiroshima has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, winters are mild compared to northern Japan, and spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage are spectacular. The rainy season (tsuyu) runs from mid-June to mid-July.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai lacks a metro or rail system, so getting around relies on songthaews (red shared trucks), tuk-tuks, Grab ride-hailing, and rented scooters. The Old City is compact enough to walk or cycle. The city is currently building a light rail system planned for future years.

Walkability: The Old City is very walkable — roughly 1.5 km on each side — and most major temples are within easy walking distance of each other. The Nimmanhaemin area is also pedestrian-friendly. Beyond these areas, distances grow and motorized transport is needed.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima has an extensive streetcar (tram) network — the oldest and largest in Japan — supplemented by buses and a good cycling infrastructure. The tram system connects the station to Peace Park, the castle, and the Miyajima ferry terminal. An IC card (ICOCA/Suica) works on all public transport.

Walkability: Hiroshima is very walkable within the central area. Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden are all within a 25-minute walk of each other. The flat river delta terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make walking easy. The Hondori shopping arcade provides covered walking in any weather.