Luxtripper Travel Editor
The main celebration of the Lunar New Year in Singapore takes place in Chinatown, where the maze-like district comes to life with illuminating decorations set against the spectacular backdrop of the city's glimmering skyline. Various communities join together to participate in the festivities, where Singapore's diverse population celebrates both old and new traditions, each influenced by the other's cultural practices, exemplifying Singapore's culturally diverse identity. Stay at Marina Bay Sands, one of the city's most renowned hotels, which is nearby to other festivities like the River Hongbao's food and artisanal markets and the downtown Chingay Parade.
Celebrated by about 7 million people, the Lunar New Year is a momentous event in Thailand, with festivities running over a period of two days. Following Bangkok, the largest celebration is held in Phuket's Sino-Portuguese area, where cultural events and traditional dances are held, stores and houses are adorned with red banners and lanterns, and hearty food vendors fill the streets. Visitors may expect an incredible celebration as it coincides with the Old Phuket Festival. Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa, a sophisticated luxury retreat on an island off the coast, is the perfect place to unwind after a whirlwind celebration.
Whilst Lunar New Year is not commonly associated with Japan - the day isn't a national holiday - the festival is still celebrated in areas across the country. Yokohama in particular, home to Japan's largest Chinatown, comes alive during the Lunar New Year, featuring colourful dragon dances, parades, and stage performances. Staying at Aman Tokyo, one of Conde Nast's Best Hotels in the World, Yokohama is an easy day trip by train, with the train station being located right next to the Aman hotel, meaning you'll be free to explore more of Japan during your stay.
The Lunar New Year, also known as "Tết", is the most important event on Vietnam's calendar; it is a time when families from all over the country gather to celebrate and the streets burst with energy as firecrackers and gongs echo through the streets to ward off evil spirits, spectacular ornaments drape buildings and a variety of activities ranging from traditional games to folk song performances are held. The InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, located nearby on a beautiful beach, is a great place to soak up the atmosphere in Hoi An, an old town in Quang Nam Province.
The Lunar New Year is a non-working day in the Philippines, where about 5 million people celebrate it. The event is commemorated throughout the country, but the Binondo neighbourhood of Manila, the city's Chinatown, is a centre for commemoration. The streets morph into a dazzling scene as red lanterns illuminate the parade of dancing lions and dragons and the aroma of cooking food wafts through the air during the all-day street party. Enjoy the city's festivities before flying to El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island for a beach escape, located within a stunning cove against a backdrop of sheer limestone cliffs and offering fantastic snorkelling and relaxation options.
If you're looking to visit Asia for your next luxury holiday, get in touch with one of our Luxury Travel Specialists who will be able to start planning your adventure.