Can I obtain a tourist visa in Chiang Mai?

Yes, Chiang Mai is ok, but you'd better contact the consulate first before visiting.

In fact, Chiang Mai has a better reputation than Bangkok so it's better to apply there. I have applied for a Chinese L type in Chiang Mai before, last time was in October 2012. I had an invitation letter so no flight tickets or hotel bookings were required. In fact, I even specified I was going to China overland in a Chinese registered car from Vientiane, Laos and would be staying at my friend's house during my period in China (Kunming). All of this was accepted - visa took 4 working days to issue.