If you’re looking for an exciting holiday this yearend, Asia could be the perfect destination. You’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience with a unique spin on traditional festivities. We’ve put together this handy guide on some of the best places worth visiting.
Japan
Photo by Satoshi Hirayama from Pexels
This is more of a commercial extravaganza than religious celebration but for the Japanese it’s a chance to relax and share the love. Surprisingly, Christmas Eve is the main event. It’s a time for couples to exchange presents and enjoy a romantic meal, similar to our Valentine’s Day. It’s a loved up affair, with plenty of googly-eyed romantics strolling through Tokyo marvelling at the decorations.
Another unique custom is the country’s passion for a certain fast food come Christmas Day. Fried chicken has replaced the western turkey dinner. If you want to join this tradition, be sure to place an order with KFC in advance, it gets unbelievably busy.
Singapore
It might be lacking in snow but this vibrant city still knows how to celebrate. It’s the perfect place for a shopping splurge with some impressive malls and boutique retailers on every street corner. The most popular area is Orchard Road which is fantastically lit during the month of December. Many shops offer special discounts during this period, so you can treat yourself to an early Holiday present. You can also look forward to some great food. The western favorite, turkey, is spiced with Asian seasoning such as chilli and ginger, which is surprisingly tasty.
South Korea
This country is home to a large population of Christians so this holiday is celebrated throughout the country. It’s also an official public holiday with many parties and events leading up to the day. The capital, Seoul is particularly festive. Temperatures can get cold and if you’re lucky, it may even snow.
The vibrant area of Sinchon also hosts a Holiday market during the month of December. You can expect to find that perfect gift from vintage clothing to antique jewelry and traditional souvenirs. This district is also home to some lively nightlife. With its big university population, you can expect trendy clubs hosting international DJs.
Hong Kong
Photo by Jimmy Chan from Pexels
The sparkling Holiday lights of this bustling city, Hong Kong, are sure to dazzle and impress. It’s a public holiday that’s taken very seriously. Many Chinese Christians celebrate with church services throughout the city. A month long celebration also takes place, known as WinterFest. The entire city is decorated and visitors can enjoy daily performances from live singing to dancing. There’s also a theme park and awe inspiring light shows. It’s worth staying until New Year’s Eve for the grand finale: a spectacular fireworks display.
If you are committed to spending Holidays at home, you can always recreate the excitement by picking up fireworks from Tesco, but trust us, don’t spend your holiday worrying about the perfect turkey or buying all those presents. Escape the stress of the festive period and enjoy a once in a lifetime experience: Christmas in Asia.
Until our next discovery in the City!
またね Mata ne!
Stay in contact subscribe to my blog.
Facebook | Lookbook | Ask.fm | Twitter | Instagram| Youtube
