From dazzling fireworks and beachside cocktails to vibrant street parties in bustling cities, from dancing until dawn to meditating in serene monasteries — Asia offers an array of ways to ring in the New Year. Whether seeking high-energy festivities or a peaceful retreat, there is something for everyone in this diverse and dynamic region. Here are a few ideas for celebrating the holiday season across Asia.
Vibrant Celebration
Legian, a charming town nestled between Kuta and Seminyak on the island of Bali, Indonesia, has become a sought-after destination for both affluent travelers and budget-conscious tourists. With its scenic surf spots, lively nightlife, shopping, and dining options, Legian offers a wide variety of New Year’s celebrations. The area is home to several luxury resorts that curate special holiday programs.
At The Legian, designed by the renowned Indonesian architect Jaya Ibrahim, guests receive a schedule filled with festive activities upon arrival. Mornings begin with yoga sessions on the lush lawn by the beach, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean. Between sessions, guests can enjoy refreshing coconut or lime water while snacking on fresh watermelon and mango. After a light breakfast, those with a sense of adventure head to the surf, while others indulge in a rejuvenating two-hour Balinese massage at the resort’s wellness center.
By noon, the scene shifts to the pool, where a seafood barbecue is served. Lobsters, crabs, royal prawns, Venus clams, and Lombok oysters are offered, alongside fresh sashimi made from tuna, salmon, and snapper. As the sun sets, a jazz band provides the perfect backdrop to a glass of champagne, while guests enjoy the sunset reflecting in the infinity pool. The New Year’s Eve celebrations continue with a traditional Balinese dance, a concert, and a gala dinner, where dishes inspired by the Silk Road take center stage. As the night unfolds, guests can dance under the stars, watch a spectacular fireworks display, or head to nearby clubs.
Spiritual Serenity
For those who prefer a quieter, more reflective New Year’s, the spiritual atmosphere of Jimbaran Bay on Bali offers a perfect retreat. Known for its peaceful beaches and family-friendly vibe, Jimbaran is home to the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay in Bali where guests can explore meditation with Hindu monks. A small private temple on the grounds hosts the monks, who engage visitors in thought-provoking conversations about earthly and celestial energies, the wisdom of animals, and the signs from the divine. These discussions may last from a few minutes to several hours, followed by a shared meditation session.
For a deeper meditation experience, consider visiting Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, known for its stunning landscapes and numerous temples. During New Year’s Eve, the Wat Phan Tao monastery offers an especially atmospheric setting. Here, monks guide guests through a night-long meditation, beginning with chants that vary in rhythm. Those new to meditation may find the experience calming after just 30 minutes, but the monks continue until dawn. While participants are free to leave at any time, the experience culminates with the head monk sharing his New Year’s wishes and explaining the significance of the holiday in the Buddhist tradition.
Later, in a nearby ritual, hundreds of people gather along the river to release illuminated lanterns into the sky, a practice believed to bring good fortune in the coming year. This touching display is part of Thailand’s traditional New Year celebrations.
Culinary Delights
Few cities are as passionate about food as Singapore. Food is the subject of endless debate here, and with good reason — the fusion of Malay, Indian, and Chinese culinary traditions has led to a creative explosion of flavors. Signature dishes include chili crab, mi goreng, biryani, Hokkien-style chicken, satay, crispy oyster omelets, and various types of laksa (a spicy noodle soup). These can be savored at bustling hawker centers like Lau Pa Sat and Newton.
For a more refined dining experience, visit the iconic Raffles Hotel, where guests can indulge in an array of gourmet offerings. The hotel’s numerous restaurants serve a blend of European (Mediterranean) and traditional Asian cuisine. A standout feature is the Long Bar, where the famous Singapore Sling cocktail was created in the early 20th century. A quirky tradition at the bar involves tossing peanut shells on the floor, harking back to its early days as a gathering place for Chinese merchants.
Wellness Retreats
Taiwan has become an increasingly popular destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness. Just outside Taipei, the Beitou Hot Springs offer a therapeutic escape. These geothermal springs, nestled in the Yangmingshan National Park, have been used for centuries for their healing properties.
The Grand View Resort Beitou, designed by Taiwanese architect Chu-An Lee (also responsible for the Taipei 101 tower), is the area’s most renowned hotel. Lee’s design merges natural materials like wood and stone with modern titanium structures, creating a harmonious connection between nature and architecture. Guests can enjoy the largest spa in Beitou, with private hot spring baths in every suite and large windows that open to views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, the hotel serves plum wine, and guests can choose from an exquisite New Year’s menu at the hotel’s Chinese and French restaurants.
Cultural Exploration
Remember Frank Sinatra’s famous line about “The city that never sleeps,” but this time it is not about New York. Today, it stands for Seoul as the most fashionable capital in the world. This city attracts not only fans of cosmetics, K-pop, and TV dramas, but also offers an inexhaustible array of cultural landmarks, with something happening every single day.
The city is a hub for art, history, and modern design, attracting not only K-pop enthusiasts but also curious travelers eager to explore its rich heritage. With five royal palaces, over 100 museums (including the renowned Leeum, Samsung Museum of Artdesigned by Jean Nouvel, Rem Koolhas, and Mario Botta), and countless traditional Buddhist temples, there is no shortage of cultural experiences to immerse oneself in. A visit to Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces is a must, as is exploring the Bukchon Hanok Village to see traditional Korean homes.
For those looking to celebrate the New Year in true Korean style, the Bosingak Bell in the Jongno district offers a spectacular annual event. The bell, dating back to the 14th century, rings only once a year to mark the New Year, and the ceremony attracts thousands of people, causing the nearby subway station to close for the night. If more traditional experiences are not for you, Four Seasons Seoul offers a luxurious alternative. Situated in the heart of the city, this hotel boasts stunning views of Seoul, including the iconic Namsan Tower, and features a traditional Korean bathhouse with a modern twist.
