3 Weeks in Asia Itinerary: From SEA to Japan, China & 5 Stans

Where to Go with 3 Weeks in Asia? Regional Focus

View Stupa of Grand Palace

Charyn Canyon National Park

Asia is a continent of contrasts. To make the most of 21 days, you can narrow your focus to one main region or choose one major cross-regional contrast.

Choosing Your Route:

For the First-Timer: Stick to the core of SEA (Itineraries #1 or #2). It's easy, affordable, and provides incredible variety without complex visa hurdles.

For the History Buff: Combine the great civilizations of China and Vietnam (Itinerary #4) or focus entirely on the ancient Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan (Itinerary #5).

For Maximum Contrast: Choose the Japan-SEA Blend (Itinerary #3) for a powerful comparison between the hyper-modern and the tropical traditional.

Related Article(s):

Top 8 Most Visited Countries in Asia: Where to Go in 2026?

10 Underrated Countries to Visit in Asia | Unexplored Places 2026

Top 10 Safest Countries in Asia to Visit: Fare, Routes & Spots

#1. The SEA Starter Loop: Classic 3 Weeks in Asia Itinerary (Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Thailand)

Pristine waters

Glide through palms in a woven basket boat in Hoi An

This is the most classic Asia itinerary for 3 weeks—it's designed to give you maximum exposure to 4 amazing cultures in 21 days. Be ready for a fast pace and many exciting days at the airport!

• Pace: Fast
• Best For: First-time Southeast Asia travelers, high-energy adventurers
• Country Breakdown: Vietnam (7.5 Days), Cambodia (3 Days), Laos (3 Days), Thailand (7.5 Days).
• Connections: 7 Flights.

Here's the major destinations you'll go:

Recommended Tours:

21 Days Southeast Asia Odyssey Tour: Vietnam Cambodia Laos Thailand

Hanoi: The Electric Beginning (Days 1-2)

Landing in Hanoi feels like stepping onto a living, breathing movie set.

Day 1 is pure sensory overload—you settle in and just let the motorbikes and street smells wash over you.

Day 2 is dedicated to Vietnam's history: a reflective morning at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda, followed by the tranquil contrast of Hoan Kiem Lake before plunging back into the exhilarating chaos of the Old Quarter via a cyclo tour.

Halong Bay & Coastal Transition (Days 3-4)

Limestone pillars emerge from the turquoise waters

Paddle through emerald waters

Day 3 is your escape to the magical Halong Bay. The overnight cruise is essential—waking up surrounded by towering karst pillars is otherworldly.

You explore Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island before returning to Hanoi on Day 4.

The biggest logistical move follows: you immediately catch a flight to Da Nang and transfer straight into the charming streets of Hoi An.

Related Article:21 Most Beautiful Natural Places in Asia: From Coast to Himalaya

Hoi An: Lantern Charm (Day 5)

Hoi An feels like stepping back in time.

Day 5 is a blast of local culture: a slightly silly but completely memorable Cam Thanh Coconut Basket Boat Trip, followed by soaking up the atmosphere of the Ancient Town, especially as the lanterns begin to glow after sunset.

Ho Chi Minh City & The Delta (Days 6-7)

The adventure ramps up again on Day 6 with a flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). After landing, you dive into a half-day tour, confronting the recent past at the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum.

Day 7 is a full-day journey to the Mekong Delta, navigating the waterways and enjoying the serene river life away from the city bustle.

Siem Reap: Temple Giants (Days 8-10)

Our Guests at Angkor Wat

Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom

Day 8 is a critical flight jump to Cambodia. After settling in Siem Reap, the real work begins.

Day 9 is an unforgettable dawn: the classic Angkor Wat sunrise, followed by exploring the massive faces of Angkor Thom, the iconic tree roots grasping Ta Prohm, and finishing with sunset over Phnom Bakheng.

Day 10 ventures further out to the beautiful pink carvings of Banteay Srei and the jungle-clad ruins of Beng Mealea.

Luang Prabang: Gentle Rhythms (Days 11-13)

Haw Pha Bang Temple near National Musem

The Sacred Morning Ritual, Alms Giving Ceremony

Day 11 is a welcome shift in pace with a flight to Luang Prabang, Laos. This town is purely spiritual.

Day 12 begins before dawn to respectfully witness the Monks' Alms Giving Ceremony, followed by market visits, the Royal Palace Museum, and a tranquil boat trip to the Pak Ou Caves.

Day 13 is pure nature—swimming and relaxing at the turquoise Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Bangkok: City of Angels (Days 14-15)

The flight on Day 14 deposits you back into the high-energy capital of Thailand.

Day 15 is a full-throttle city tour: the dazzling Wat Phra Kaew, the Grand Palace, the reclining Wat Pho, a ferry across the river for the Wat Arun sunset, and a deep dive into the sensory overload of Chinatown.

Chiang Mai: Northern Soul (Days 16-17)

Day 16 required a flight north to Chiang Mai.

After settling in, Day 17 was dedicated to a truly ethical experience at an Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, connecting with these gentle giants, with the option of adding a cooking class.

Phuket: Island Paradise (Days 18-21)

The final leg began on Day 18 with a flight to Phuket.

Day 19 was the essential island hop—exploring the stunning Phi Phi Island.

Day 20 was a free day, perfect for a chilled-out beach day or an optional excursion to James Bond Island.

Day 21 was the final check-out and airport transfer.

Related Article:Best Islands in Asia: 22 Most Beautiful Islands in Asia to Visit

#2. The Family-Friendly 3 Weeks Asia Itinerary in SEA (Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand)

Timeless Angkor Wat

Once the political heart of the Nguyen Dynasty

This Asia trip itinerary 3 weeks option reduces the number of big moves, focuses on 3 established destinations, and spends more time on relaxation, making it ideal for groups or families.

• Pace: Moderate
• Best For: Groups or families.
• Country Breakdown: Vietnam (8.5 Days), Cambodia (2 Days), Thailand (10.5 Days).
• Connections: 4 Internal Flights.

Check out the main destination to go:

Recommended Tours:

21 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tour: Relaxing Family Vacation

Hanoi, Halong Bay & Coastal Moves (Days 1-4)

The journey begins exactly as the SEA Starter Loop (Itinerary 1): Days 1-4 cover your Hanoi arrival, the City Tour, the Halong Bay Cruise, and the flight to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An.

Hoi An: Family Fun & Lanterns (Days 5-6)

Take a boat on the Thu Bon River at night

Glide through palms in a woven basket boat

Hoi An offers amazing family-friendly activities.

Day 5 is a huge success with the Cam Thanh Coconut Basket Boat Trip, perfectly paired with a hands-on cooking class.

Day 6 is spent exploring the beautiful Hoi An Ancient Town at a leisurely pace, culminating in a creative lantern-making class—a perfect souvenir.

Related Article:8 Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Asia: Where to Go in Asia With Kids?

Ho Chi Minh City & The South (Days 7-9)

Day 7 is a travel day, featuring the flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 8 is dedicated to understanding the region's history, visiting the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and then taking the essential trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels outside the city.

Day 9 is the full-day journey into the Mekong Delta, a fascinating look at life on the river.

Siem Reap: The Must-See (Days 10-11)

Day 10 involves the necessary flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

You get settled before tackling the main event on Day 11: a truly magnificent day at Angkor Archaeological Park, focusing on the sunrise, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and the iconic Angkor Wat.

Bangkok & Pattaya: City and Beach (Days 12-15)

Night Market, Bangkok

Enjoy sunset on Pattaya Beach

Days 12-13 mirror the Thai capital experience from Itinerary 1: the flight from Siem Reap to Bangkok (Day 12), followed by the classic City Tour of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun sunset on Day 13.

Day 14 is a change of scenery as you drive to Pattaya for a relaxation tour, with the option of island hopping to Koh Larn.

Day 15 is a free morning in Pattaya before driving back and taking the flight to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai: Northern Charms (Days 16-17)

Day 16 is all about responsible tourism at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, another perfect opportunity for a cooking class.

On Day 17, you fit in a quick tour of Chiang Mai Old City's highlights before heading south to Phuket by flight.

Phuket: Extended Beach Time (Days 18-21)

On Day 18, your exploration of Phuket starts with an island hopping tour to Koh Phi Phi.

Days 19 and 20 are flexible days—maybe a foodie tour in Phuket Old Town or an optional trip to James Bond Island.

Day 21 is your final departure.

Related Article:Best Asia Beaches: 20 Most Beautiful Beaches in Asia

#3. The North-South Blend in 3 Weeks in Asia: Japan, Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

View Mount Fuji in Oishi Park, Kawaguchigo

Meiji Shrine Traditional Wedding

This 3 weeks in Asia itinerary is for the high-energy traveler who wants the ultimate contrast—from high-tech Japan to the historical tropics.

• Pace: Very Fast
• Best For: Travelers who want maximum cultural contrast.
• Country Breakdown: Japan (8 Days), Thailand (4 Days), Cambodia (2.5 Days), Vietnam (6.5 Days).
• Connections: 1 Bullet Train (Shinkansen), 4 Flights.

Here's a breakdown of the popular destinations in Japan, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam:

Recommended Tours:

21 Days Japan Thailand Cambodia Vietnam Tour Package - Best of Four Asia Countries

Tokyo & Mount Fuji: Neon and Tradition (Days 1-3)

Upon arrival in Tokyo, your first day is all about settling into the whirlwind and navigating the city's rail network.

On your second day, you experience a perfect blend of old and new: starting with the quiet of the Meiji Jingu Shrine and the ancient Senso-ji Temple, then getting lost in the kinetic chaos of Shibuya Crossing.

Day 3 takes you out of the city for stunning views of Mount Fuji, followed by a cable car ride and lake viewing near Lake Kawaguchi.

Kyoto, Nara, & Osaka: Imperial Culture (Days 4-7)

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kyoto

Nara Park, Nara

Day 4 is the classic Japanese experience: riding the Bullet Train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto.

The following day is Kyoto's cultural peak, where you explore the dazzling Golden Kinkakuji Temple and wander the atmospheric streets of the geisha district, Gion.

Day 6 includes the dramatic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine before taking a car ride (about 1.5 hours) to Nara to meet the famous wild deer.

You finish on Day 7 in Osaka, seeing the castle and enjoying the dazzling Shinsaibashi-suji and Dotombori districts.

Bangkok & Pattaya: The Big Leap (Days 8-11)

Day 8 is a massive logistical move: the flight from Osaka to Bangkok.

The next morning, immerse yourself in Bangkok's temples (Wat Phra Kaew, Grand Palace, Wat Pho) and the vibrant sensory experience of Chinatown.

Days 10-11 mirror the beach trip from Itinerary 2: a drive to Pattaya with optional island hopping to Koh Larn, followed by a free day before returning to Bangkok.

Siem Reap: Transition & Wonder (Days 12-13)

The Angkor experience on Days 12-13 follows the exact structure of Itinerary 2, Days 10-11: a flight from Bangkok to Siem Reap (Day 12), and the iconic temple day at Angkor (Sunrise, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Angkor Wat) on Day 13.

Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta (Days 14-16)

Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City

Tan Dinh Church, the Pink Church

This segment mirrors Itinerary 2, Days 7-9 in its activities, just slightly shifted in timing: Day 14 is the necessary flight from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City.

The following Day 15 is history's weight, covering the Cu Chi Tunnels and city sites.

Day 16 is the relaxing full-day journey through the serene, agricultural Mekong Delta.

Hanoi & Halong Bay: Closing the Circle (Days 17-21)

Day 17 is the final flight, from Ho Chi Minh City up to Hanoi.

Day 18 is a relaxed re-visit of the capital, enjoying a Cyclo Tour through the Old Quarter. Day 19 is the departure for the misty Halong Bay cruise.

Day 20 sees you return to Hanoi for final free time before your departure on Day 21.

#4. China to SEA Cross: 3 Weeks Asia Itinerary (China, Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand)

Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall

Xian Terracotta Warriors

This itinerary offers a progression, starting with the immense historical scale of China, moving through the cultural depth of Vietnam and Cambodia, and concluding in the tropical tranquility of Thailand.

• Pace: Moderate to Fast
• Best For: Travelers who want maximum cultural contrast.
• Country Breakdown: China (7 Days), Vietnam (5.5 Days), Cambodia (3 Days), Thailand (5.5 Days).
• Connections: 1 Bullet Train (Beijing to Xian), 6 Flights.

Here's the destinations breakdown:

Recommended Tours:

22 Days China Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tour (Grand Asia Loop)

Beijing: Imperial Grandeur (Days 1–3)

Your epic journey begins with your arrival in Beijing on Day 1.

After adjusting to the rhythm of this historic capital, Day 2 plunges you directly into the heart of imperial China at Tian'anmen Square and the sprawling Forbidden City. The day concludes with the quiet elegance of the Summer Palace.

The peak experience arrives on Day 3 with a full-day excursion to the majestic Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall, followed by a glimpse of modern Beijing's architectural wonders.

Xian: The Ancient Army (Days 4–6)

Xian City Wall

Xian Ancient City Wall

On Day 4, you transition inland via high-speed rail to Xian.

Day 5 is dominated by the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors—thousands of life-sized guardians—followed by a walk along the imposing Ancient City Wall.

The next morning (Day 6) starts at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and the dynamic street food scene of the Muslim Quarter before you catch your flight to Shanghai.

Arriving that evening, you witness China's leap into the future.

Shanghai: Modern Metropolis (Days 6–7)

Day 7 is a fast-paced exploration: ascending the Shanghai Tower for breathtaking city views, wandering through the classical Yu Garden & Bazaar, and concluding with the neon glow of the cityscape from The Bund.

Recommended Tours:

8 Days Beijing Xian Shanghai Tour: China Golden Triangle

The Vietnamese Heart: Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An (Days 8–12)

Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi

The Old Quarter, also known as Hanoi's 36 Streets

Day 8 marks your shift to Southeast Asia with a flight from Shanghai to Hanoi, Vietnam.

Day 9 is dedicated to Hanoi's culture and history, starting at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum before drawing you into the lively, chaotic maze of the Old Quarter.

Day 10 is your escape to nature at Halong Bay. Boarding a dedicated cruise ship, you'll spend the day and night navigating the emerald waters studded with thousands of towering limestone karsts.

After disembarking the cruise on Day 11, you return to Hanoi for a flight to Da Nang, followed by a quick transfer to the enchanting, lantern-lit town of Hoi An.

Day 12 provides a unique local experience: a memorable ride in a Cam Thanh Coconut Basket Boat, followed by a peaceful afternoon absorbing the atmosphere of the pedestrian-friendly Hoi An Ancient Town.

Recommended Tours:

8 Days Classic Vietnam Tour (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An & Mekong Delta)

The Cambodian Wonder: Siem Reap (Days 13–15)

On Day 13, you fly from Da Nang to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the cultural pivot point of your journey.

The next two days are focused entirely on the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park.

Day 14 starts before dawn for the quintessential Angkor Wat Sunrise. The remainder of the day includes the iconic faces of Angkor Thom and the famous tree roots consuming Ta Prohm.

Day 15 explores the outer reaches, visiting the intricately carved pink-sandstone temple of Banteay Srei and the beautifully ruined, jungle-engulfed complex of Beng Mealea.

Recommended Tours:

5 Days Classic Cambodia Tour: From Siem Reap to Phnom Penh

The Thai Conclusion: Bangkok and Phuket (Days 16–21)

Phi Phi Island Hopping Tour

Snorkeling, Phi Phi Island

Day 16 brings you to the final country on your itinerary, flying from Siem Reap to Bangkok, Thailand.

Day 17 is dedicated to the city's spiritual and royal core: the revered Wat Phra Kaew and the stunning Grand Palace. You'll visit the colossal Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, catch the sunset view of Wat Arun across the river, and end the evening exploring the vibrant energy of Chinatown.

Your final destination begins with a flight to the tropical paradise of Phuket on Day 18. The pace slows immediately.

Day 19 is pure island bliss with an Island Hopping Tour to the famous Phi Phi Island.

Day 20 is your dedicated Phuket Free Day for relaxation and swimming. Your incredible 21-day Asian exploration concludes on Day 21 with your final check-out and transfer to Phuket International Airport.

Recommended Tours:

7 Days Classic Thailand Tour Package to Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Phuket

#5. The Off-the-Beaten 3 Weeks in Asia Itinerary: 5 Stans Discovery

Kolsay Lakes National Park

Charyn Canyon National Park

This is the serious adventure route—a deep dive into the history, mountains, and Silk Road legacy of Central Asia.

• Pace: Slow/Rugged
• Best For: Adventure travelers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts focused on the ancient Silk Road.
• Country Breakdown: Kyrgyzstan (6 Days), Kazakhstan (2 Days), Tajikistan (3 Days), Uzbekistan (5 Days), Turkmenistan (4 Days).
• Connections: 2 Flights, 3 Major Land Crossings (Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan, Tajikistan-Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan).

Here's the main destinations included in the itinerary in Asia in 3 weeks:

Recommended Tours:

21 Days Epic Central Asia Grand Tour: Starting in Kyrgyzstan, Best in Spring

Bishkek & Kyrgyz Mountains (Days 1-6)

Ala Archa National Park

Ala Too Square

Your Central Asian journey begins with arrival and acclimatization in Bishkek.

On your second day, explore the capital city's highlights, including the grand Ala-Too Square, the bustling Osh Bazaar, and the raw natural beauty of Ala-Archa National Park.

Day 3 kicks off your rugged road journey, seeing the historic Burana Tower before reaching the remote valley of Chon Kemin.

Day 4 takes you to the stunning, expansive Issyk-Kul Lake near Cholpon-Ata.

The fifth day is pure nomadic culture, where you witness yurt-making demonstrations and an exhilarating Eagle Hunting show.

Day 6 is a long, incredibly scenic drive through the breathtaking Jeti Oguz Gorge before finally reaching Karakol.

Recommended Tours:

5 Days Kyrgyzstan Tour from Bishkek with Issyk-Kul Lake: Essential Kyrgyzstan

Kazakhstan: Canyon and City (Days 7-8)

Day 7 is a massive travel day, crossing the border into Kazakhstan and immediately making your way to the deep, arid wonder of Charyn Canyon for a hike before pushing on to the modern city of Almaty.

The following morning in Almaty, explore the lively Green Bazaar, reflect in the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen Park, and enjoy the expansive views from the cable car ride up Kok-Tobe Hill.

Recommended Tours:

6 Days Classic Kazakhstan Tour - From Almaty to Mountains, Canyons & Lakes

Tajikistan: Into the Fann Mountains (Days 9-11)

Iskanderkul Lake

Seven Lakes

Day 9 brings a critical flight from Almaty to Dushanbe, where you tour the key monuments of the capital after landing.

Day 10 involves a beautiful, winding drive to the legendary Iskanderkul Lake for an alpine hike.

The next day is spent exploring the breathtaking Penjikent region, hiking between the sixth and seventh of the famous Seven Lakes—a true mountain escape.

Recommended Tours:

7 Days Best Tajikistan Tour: History, Culture & Iskanderkul Lake

Uzbekistan: The Blue Silk Road (Days 12-17)

Hazrati Imam Complex, Tashkent

Itchan Kala Walls, Khiva

Day 12 requires a border crossing into Uzbekistan, beginning with the ancient Rudaki Museum and ruins of Penjikent before reaching the architectural marvel of Samarkand.

The following day is dedicated to the iconic blue-tiled wonders: the magnificent Registan Square, Gur Emir, and the spiritual Shahi Zinda Necropolis.

Day 14 features a swift afternoon train ride to Tashkent, after seeing the Ulugh Beg Observatory.

Day 15 is a full day in the capital, exploring the historic Khast-Imam Complex and the massive, vibrant Chorsu Bazaar.

Day 16 is the train to Bukhara, where you immediately encounter the awe-inspiring Po-i-Kalyan Complex, followed by a deeper, reflective exploration of Bukhara's preserved historic heart on Day 17.

Recommended Tours:

6 Days Classic Uzbekistan Tour: Tashkent, Bukhara, and Samarkand

Turkmenistan: Desert Wonders (Days 18-21)

Darvaza Gas Crater

Turkmenistan Kunya Urgench

Day 18 is a complex border crossing to Mary, Turkmenistan, giving you access to the spectacular ruins of Ancient Merv.

Day 19 begins with a necessary flight to Ashgabat, immediately followed by the drive to the Darvaza Burning Gas Crater for an incredible, surreal overnight stay.

On Day 20, you make the surreal return to Ashgabat for a city tour dedicated to its bizarre, consistent, white-marble architecture.

Day 21 is your final tour (Ertugrul Gazi Mosque) before your departure.

Recommended Tours:

5 Days Classic Turkmenistan Tour: UNESCO Ancient Wonders & Door to Hell

3 Weeks in Asia Cost: Budget Allocation & Flight Costs

The total cost of your trip will vary dramatically based on your itinerary choice.

Budget Allocation (Daily Averages per Person)

Asia is often touted as cheap, but costs in Japan and China can rival Western Europe.

Note: Costs in table are just for reference.

Key Flight Costs

Your biggest variable expense will be flights, especially international hops.

Intensive SEA (Itinerary #1): Many short, cheap regional flights (often under $100 USD each). Total flight budget is higher due to volume, but individual legs are low cost.

Japan/China Legs (Itineraries #3 & #4): The intercontinental flight (e.g., Osaka to Bangkok, Shanghai to Hanoi) will be the most expensive segment, potentially costing $400-$600 USD alone, depending on timing.

Central Asia (Itinerary #5): Internal flights (e.g., Almaty to Dushanbe) can be expensive due to limited routes. Land crossings are mandatory for budget-conscious travelers.

Related Article:Asia Trip Cost: How Much Does a Trip to Asia Cost?

How to Pack for 3 Weeks in Asia?

Haw Par Villa, Singapore

The Japanese tea ceremony

The climates and activities across Asia are diverse—from the humid tropical heat of the Thai islands to the cool, arid air of the Chinese mountains or the high-altitude chill of the Kyrgyz valleys.

Packing light is important, especially with 4+ flights!

Related Article:The 2026 Asia Packing List (And What NOT To Bring)

Tailor Your 3 Weeks in Asia Itinerary with us, Your Asia Travel Expert

These five itineraries provide a framework for your 21-day adventure, but they are just starting points.

Let me know what you value most—relaxation, history, nightlife or budget—and we can fine-tune any of these routes to create your perfect three weeks in Asia!

We at Asia Odyssey Travel are here to turn complex logistics into effortless exploration in: East Asia (China, Japan, South Korea), Southeast Asia (Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines), South Asia (India, Nepal, Bhutan) and Central Asia (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan).

Our commitment to local service is unmatched, with dedicated offices in Tokyo, Manila, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, and many more key hubs, including Lhasa and Zhangjiajie.

We handle every detail, from high-speed rail to remote land crossings, giving you the freedom to immerse yourself.

Trust the experts with local roots to unlock the real Asia!