Japan, Vietnam and Bali in one trip: when to go and what to pack

Combining Japan, northern Vietnam and Bali gives you neon cities, limestone bays and tropical rice terraces in a single trip. The catch is that the three have very different weather patterns, so timing makes a real difference.

The short answer

Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) are the best windows for this combination. Japan is mild and colorful, Ha Long Bay has calmer seas and clearer views, and Bali is either just entering or still in its dry season.

Japan

• Late March to early April: cherry blossom season. Beautiful and busy, so book early.
• October and November: autumn leaves and comfortable temperatures. Mt. Fuji is often clearest on cool, dry mornings.
• June to August: hot and humid, with a rainy season in early summer.

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi and Ha Long Bay)

• March to May and September to November bring warm days and good cruising conditions.
• Winter (December to February) is cool and often misty in the north, which some travelers love for photography.
• Summer is hot, with heavier rain and a higher chance of tropical storms affecting cruises.

Bali

• April to October is the dry season, with sunny days and lower humidity.
• November to March is the wet season. Showers are usually short, and the island is green and quieter.

Good to know: Bali charges a tourist levy for international visitors, and Vietnam requires US citizens to obtain an e-visa before arrival. Entry rules change, so always confirm the latest requirements before you fly.

Packing for three climates

• Layers for Japan and Hanoi evenings, especially in spring and late autumn.
• Light, breathable clothing and a hat for Bali.
• Shoulders and knees covered for temples in all three countries. A light scarf works well.
• Good walking shoes for Tokyo's stations and the climb up Mua Cave, plus sandals for the boat.
• A headlamp or small torch if you plan the Mount Batur sunrise hike, which starts in the dark.

Getting around

Japan's bullet trains make the day trip to Mt. Fuji easy. In Vietnam, a private transfer to the bay and an overnight cruise saves a long return drive the same day. In Bali, a driver is the most comfortable way to reach Ubud, the waterfalls and the Nusa Penida boat.

See how it fits together in our Japan, Vietnam & Bali package, with flights from San Francisco or Los Angeles.