The Year of the Snake is here, and the world’s most vibrant Chinatowns and cultural hubs in China, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, US, UK, France, and South Africa are pulling out all the stops to celebrate in grand style. These destinations shine not only for their incredible Lunar New Year festivities but also for their unique ability to blend tradition, culture, and local flavor. Whether you’re exploring the historic temples of China, savoring dumplings on the bustling streets of Manila, or marveling at the lantern festivals in Paris, each place on this list offers something unforgettable.

What makes these destinations stand out? It’s their dedication to preserving and celebrating Chinese heritage while creating an inclusive and exciting experience for all. According to a recent TTW (Travel and Tour World) report, these locations are seeing a surge in interest from travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and vibrant New Year celebrations. From the iconic parades of San Francisco and London to the intimate charms of South Africa’s Chinatowns, each location promises a magical mix of colorful performances, delectable food, and centuries-old traditions. Dive into this guide to discover why these countries are your ultimate travel destinations for celebrating the Year of the Snake in style.

China: The Heart of Lunar New Year Traditions

When it comes to celebrating the Year of the Snake, China stands as the ultimate destination. The Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, transforms the entire country into a vibrant tapestry of traditions, colors, and energy. Beijing, with its awe-inspiring temple fairs, is a must-visit. The Ditan Temple Fair is particularly famous, offering everything from dragon and lion dances to intricate handicrafts and authentic festival snacks. Shanghai enchants visitors with its magical lantern festivals, such as the one held in Yuyuan Garden, where lantern displays depict mythical creatures and folk stories.

Another incredible destination is Hong Kong, where Victoria Harbour hosts one of the most breathtaking fireworks displays in the world. The Tsim Sha Tsui promenade becomes a hotspot for visitors to enjoy this spectacle. Meanwhile, ancient cities like Xi’an and Chengdu offer a more traditional vibe. In Xi’an, the famous Drum Tower area comes alive with cultural performances, while Chengdu invites visitors to enjoy traditional Sichuan feasts and teahouse gatherings. Whether you’re in a bustling metropolis or a quaint village, China ensures that the Year of the Snake is celebrated with grandeur and authenticity.

China’s Spring Festival travel season has kicked off with authorities projecting a record-breaking 9 billion passenger trips during the 40-day period, highlighting a remarkable surge in both domestic and international travel. Railways are expected to handle 510 million passenger trips through February 22, averaging 12.75 million daily trips, a 5.5% increase from 2024, according to China Railway.

In Guangzhou alone, Guangzhou South Railway Station is set to process 20.17 million passengers, including 10.2 million departing travelers. The peak is projected on January 27, with an estimated 369,000 passengers passing through in a single day. This unparalleled movement of people underscores the importance of the Spring Festival as both a cultural celebration and a travel phenomenon.

Best places to celebrate in China:

• Beijing – Ditan Temple Fair for dragon dances, cultural performances, and local treats.
• Shanghai – Yuyuan Garden Lantern Festival with stunning themed displays.
• Hong Kong – Victoria Harbour and Tsim Sha Tsui promenade for fireworks and festivities.
• Xi’an – Drum Tower area with vibrant cultural celebrations.
• Chengdu – Traditional Sichuan feasts and teahouse experiences.

Canada: Where Tradition Meets Celebration in the Year of the Snake

Canada’s vibrant Chinatowns, particularly in Vancouver, offer an unforgettable way to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Vancouver’s Chinatown, the largest in the country, is a cultural treasure that comes alive during the Lunar New Year. The iconic Millennium Gate, a towering structure adorned with traditional Chinese motifs, welcomes you into a neighborhood steeped in history and tradition. During the festivities, the streets pulse with energy as lion dancers parade to the beat of drums, and the air fills with the aroma of sizzling street food.

The celebration isn’t complete without exploring the serene Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a tranquil escape where cultural performances and New Year rituals take center stage. The Vancouver Chinese New Year Parade is another highlight, featuring vibrant floats, martial arts demonstrations, and an electrifying 100-foot-long dragon dance. Beyond Vancouver, cities like Toronto and Montreal also host dynamic Lunar New Year events. Toronto’s Chinatown offers night markets and cultural performances, while Montreal’s Chinatown showcases its charm with lantern displays and traditional lion dances.

Vancouver’s Chinatown is set to host one of the largest Lunar New Year parades in Canada, with the 51st Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival Celebration kicking off on Sunday, February 2, 2025, the fifth day of the Year of the Snake. The event is expected to draw over 5,000 participants and 100,000 spectators, featuring family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and a dazzling 1.3 km parade.

Starting at 11 am at the Millennium Gate on Pender Street, the parade will weave through Chinatown’s iconic streets, offering a spectacle of cultural performances and colorful floats. Past editions have drawn up to 200,000 spectators, so attendees are advised to arrive early for the best views.

Best places to celebrate in Canada:

• Vancouver’s Chinatown – Home to the iconic Millennium Gate and vibrant parades.
• Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Vancouver – A serene spot for cultural events and New Year rituals.
• Toronto’s Chinatown – Night markets, cultural performances, and authentic Chinese cuisine.
• Montreal’s Chinatown – Lantern displays and traditional lion dances in a historic setting.
• Richmond Night Market, British Columbia – A popular destination for festive food and entertainment.

Australia: Where Heritage Shines Bright for the Year of the Snake

Australia’s Chinatowns transform into cultural havens during the Lunar New Year, with Melbourne leading the charge as the oldest Chinatown in the Southern Hemisphere. Nestled in Little Bourke Street, Melbourne’s Chinatown bursts into life with dragon parades snaking through the streets, the rhythmic beat of drums reverberating, and vibrant red lanterns illuminating the cityscape. The iconic Chinese Museum, located within the precinct, adds a layer of history to the celebration, offering exhibits that trace the legacy of Chinese-Australians.

Beyond Melbourne, Sydney’s Chinatown in Haymarket is another hotspot. The area transforms into a hub of activity with lion dances, cultural performances, and the annual Lunar Lanterns Trail—a breathtaking display of larger-than-life animal lanterns along Circular Quay. In Brisbane, the Fortitude Valley Chinatown hosts dazzling parades and martial arts demonstrations. Adelaide’s Chinatown stands out with its food-focused festivities, offering delectable dumplings, sizzling woks, and an array of traditional treats. Whether you’re seeking rich cultural heritage or culinary delights, Australia’s Chinatowns promise a vibrant celebration of the Year of the Snake.

Australia is poised to welcome a surge in Chinese visitors, with the Australia China Business Council projecting 2 million Chinese tourists by 2025, doubling the current figure. This growth is attributed to agreements allowing more Chinese airlines to fly directly to Australian destinations, catering to the increasing demand for cultural and leisure travel.

Currently, Australia hosts 1.2 million Chinese tourists annually, contributing around $9.1 billion to its economy. This anticipated influx reflects the country’s strong ties with Chinese communities and its commitment to providing world-class tourism experiences, especially during the Lunar New Year.

Best places to celebrate in Australia:

• Melbourne’s Chinatown – Dragon parades, the Chinese Museum, and dazzling street performances.
• Sydney’s Haymarket Chinatown – Home to the Lunar Lanterns Trail and traditional festivities.
• Fortitude Valley, Brisbane – Known for its lion dances, cultural shows, and martial arts displays.
• Adelaide’s Chinatown – A haven for food lovers, featuring dumplings, noodles, and festive feasts.
• Perth’s Northbridge Chinatown – A mix of cultural events and family-friendly activities.

Malaysia: A Fusion of Festivities for the Year of the Snake

Malaysia’s multicultural charm makes it a unique destination to celebrate the Year of the Snake, and Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown in Petaling Street is at the heart of the action. As the Lunar New Year approaches, the area transforms into a dazzling scene with red lanterns, lively performances, and bustling markets. Visitors are treated to traditional lion and dragon dances that weave through the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of drums and cymbals. A walk through the charming Kwai Chai Hong alley reveals stunning murals depicting the Chinese community’s history, adding a nostalgic touch to the festive atmosphere.

For a more immersive experience, head to Thean Hou Temple, perched atop Robson Hill, where vibrant decorations, cultural ceremonies, and blessings take place during the Lunar New Year. Beyond Kuala Lumpur, Penang’s George Town hosts its famous Chinese New Year festival, featuring cultural performances and food bazaars. Malacca, with its historic Jonker Street, blends festive cheer with heritage charm. The festivities extend to Ipoh’s Old Town, known for its stunning street art and traditional cuisine, making Malaysia a hotspot for unforgettable celebrations.

Malaysia is emerging as a top destination for Chinese travelers, with projections of 5 million arrivals and 30 billion ringgit (approximately 6.97 billion USD) in tourism revenue in 2025. This marks a significant surge, positioning Malaysia as a key player in attracting Lunar New Year visitors.

The country’s rich cultural offerings, including festive celebrations in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown and beyond, are expected to draw large crowds. Lantern displays, cultural performances, and traditional food markets make Malaysia a vibrant and welcoming destination for the Year of the Snake.

Best places to celebrate in Malaysia:

• Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur – Vibrant lion dances, street markets, and cultural performances.
• Thean Hou Temple, Kuala Lumpur – A scenic spot for prayers, blessings, and festive decorations.
• George Town, Penang – Famous for its Chinese New Year festival with performances and food stalls.
• Jonker Street, Malacca – A historic site blending heritage with New Year festivities.
• Ipoh’s Old Town – Known for its street art, traditional snacks, and festive charm.

Japan: Tradition and Elegance Unite for the Year of the Snake

Japan’s vibrant Chinatowns, particularly in Yokohama, offer a delightful blend of Chinese traditions and Japanese hospitality during the Lunar New Year. As the largest Chinatown in Japan, Yokohama comes alive with colorful lanterns, festive music, and captivating dragon and lion dances that wind through its lively streets. Visitors can indulge in traditional Chinese snacks like steamed buns, dumplings, and sesame balls while exploring the area’s many shops and temples. The highlight of the celebration is the Lantern Festival, where the streets shimmer with lights and decorative displays, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Kobe’s Chinatown, also known as Nankinmachi, is another hotspot for the Lunar New Year. The streets are adorned with vibrant red decorations and filled with the aroma of Chinese cuisine. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, including traditional lion dances and martial arts demonstrations. For those in Nagasaki, the Shinchi Chinatown hosts a grand Lantern Festival, featuring a parade of dragon floats and breathtaking light displays. From Yokohama’s bustling streets to Nagasaki’s lantern-lit celebrations, Japan offers a unique and elegant way to embrace the Year of the Snake.

Japan’s post-pandemic tourism boom continues, with a record 36.9 million international visitors in 2024, reflecting a strong recovery. While Chinese tourist numbers during past Lunar New Year periods have seen dips, optimism is high for 2025. In January 2024 alone, Japan welcomed 415,900 Chinese visitors, marking a 33% increase from the previous month.

Festive hotspots like Yokohama and Kobe’s Chinatowns are gearing up to host cultural events, dragon dances, and food festivals, ensuring visitors experience the unique blend of Japanese and Chinese traditions. Despite challenges, Japan’s Lunar New Year celebrations remain a magnet for international tourists.

Best places to celebrate in Japan:

• Yokohama Chinatown – The largest in Japan, featuring lantern festivals, dragon dances, and traditional snacks.
• Nankinmachi, Kobe – A lively spot with vibrant decorations, cultural performances, and delicious cuisine.
• Shinchi Chinatown, Nagasaki – Famous for its Lantern Festival and dragon float parades.
• Motomachi, Yokohama – Known for its vibrant street markets and New Year festivities.
• Chukagai Oodori Street, Yokohama – A bustling hub for food and cultural celebrations.

Thailand: Vibrant Celebrations for the Year of the Snake

Thailand’s Yaowarat Road in Bangkok is one of the most vibrant Chinatowns in the world, and it becomes even more dazzling during the Lunar New Year. The streets transform into a sea of red and gold as lanterns hang overhead, and the aroma of street food fills the air. The festivities kick off with traditional lion and dragon dances, while cultural performances and music add to the excitement. Yaowarat Road is also famous for its incredible street food, where you can indulge in dishes like crispy pork belly, steamed fish with chili sauce, and sweet sesame dumplings.

Chiang Mai also hosts colorful Lunar New Year celebrations, with its Chinatown along Worarot Market becoming a hub of activity. The area features dragon parades, fireworks, and food markets offering a mix of Chinese and Thai delicacies. In Phuket, the Old Town becomes a picturesque backdrop for New Year festivities, blending its Chinese heritage with island charm. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant Phuket Lantern Festival, which features stunning light displays and cultural shows. Whether in bustling Bangkok or scenic Phuket, Thailand promises an unforgettable Year of the Snake celebration.

Thailand’s Lunar New Year celebrations are expected to attract over 4 million foreign tourists between January 24 and February 2, 2025, reflecting a 10.4% increase from the previous year, according to the Thai Transport Ministry. Among these, 770,000 visitors from China are anticipated, marking a 22.6% increase compared to 2024.

Bangkok’s Yaowarat Road and Chiang Mai’s Worarot Market will be bustling with festivities, including dragon parades, cultural performances, and street food galore. While concerns over safety may affect overall Chinese tourist numbers, Thailand’s reputation as a Lunar New Year hotspot remains strong.

Best places to celebrate in Thailand:

• Yaowarat Road, Bangkok – Lion dances, cultural performances, and incredible street food.
• Worarot Market, Chiang Mai – Dragon parades, fireworks, and festive food markets.
• Phuket Old Town – Lantern Festival, cultural shows, and a picturesque setting.
• Talad Noi, Bangkok – A historic area with traditional Chinese New Year decorations and ceremonies.
• Hatyai Chinatown – Known for its festive atmosphere, night markets, and vibrant celebrations.

Singapore: A Cultural Extravaganza for the Year of the Snake

Singapore’s Chinatown is a dazzling hotspot for Lunar New Year celebrations, blending rich heritage with modern flair. As the Year of the Snake approaches, the streets of Chinatown are adorned with vibrant red and gold decorations, glowing lanterns, and intricate zodiac displays. Pagoda Street and Smith Street become the heart of the action, hosting bustling night markets that sell festive treats like pineapple tarts, bak kwa (sweet dried meat), and mandarin oranges. The celebrations kick off with a grand opening ceremony featuring cultural performances, dragon and lion dances, and an impressive fireworks display.

For a more immersive experience, visitors flock to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest and most iconic Chinese temples, to offer prayers for a prosperous year ahead. Another highlight is the annual Chingay Parade, a dazzling street procession featuring colorful floats, acrobats, and traditional dancers. At Gardens by the Bay, the Spring Blossom Festival showcases breathtaking floral displays and cultural workshops. Whether enjoying the festive bazaars or marveling at the artistic lanterns, Singapore offers a vibrant and unforgettable celebration of the Year of the Snake.

Best places to celebrate in Singapore:

• Chinatown (Pagoda and Smith Streets) – Night markets, lion dances, and festive decorations.
• Thian Hock Keng Temple – A serene spot for prayers and blessings.
• Chingay Parade – A grand procession with floats, dancers, and cultural performances.
• Gardens by the Bay – Spring Blossom Festival with floral displays and workshops.
• Chinatown Food Street – A haven for festive treats and traditional Chinese dishes.

South Korea: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Festivity for the Year of the Snake

South Korea’s Incheon Chinatown, the largest and most iconic in the country, is the perfect destination to celebrate the Year of the Snake. The neighborhood transforms into a vibrant hub of activity during the Lunar New Year, with red lanterns illuminating the streets and traditional performances captivating visitors. You’ll find dragon and lion dances accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums, creating an atmosphere full of energy and cultural pride. The area also offers unique Chinese-Korean fusion cuisine, such as tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork) and jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles), which have become staples of Korean-Chinese food culture.

In Seoul, the Gwangjang Market and traditional Korean palaces like Gyeongbokgung offer a different kind of celebration. These spots combine Seollal (Korean Lunar New Year) traditions with Chinese influences, showcasing cultural performances, calligraphy workshops, and traditional games like yutnori. The Incheon Chinatown Museum is another must-visit, offering insights into the Chinese immigrant community’s rich history in South Korea. With its mix of cultural heritage, vibrant street scenes, and delicious cuisine, South Korea provides a unique perspective on Lunar New Year celebrations.

Best places to celebrate in South Korea:

• Incheon Chinatown – The largest Chinatown in South Korea, with lantern displays and festive performances.
• Incheon Chinatown Museum – A fascinating exploration of Chinese immigrant history.
• Gwangjang Market, Seoul – A food haven blending Seollal traditions and Chinese influences.
• Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul – Traditional New Year ceremonies and cultural activities.
• Wolmido Island, Incheon – A vibrant waterfront destination hosting festive events.

United States: Where Diversity Meets Tradition for the Year of the Snake

The United States is home to some of the most iconic Chinatowns in the world, making it an ideal destination to celebrate the Year of the Snake. In San Francisco, the oldest and largest Chinatown outside Asia, the streets come alive with the vibrant Chinese New Year Parade. Featuring the famous 268-foot-long Golden Dragon, colorful floats, and lively firecrackers, this event is a must-see. While you’re there, explore Grant Avenue, lined with traditional shops and restaurants serving authentic dim sum and roasted Peking duck. Don’t miss Portsmouth Square, often referred to as the “Heart of Chinatown,” where locals gather to play mahjong and enjoy festive music.

On the East Coast, New York City offers dynamic celebrations across its multiple Chinatowns. In Manhattan, the Lunar New Year Parade winds through Chinatown’s streets, featuring cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, and lion dances. Flushing, Queens, is another hotspot, known for its stunning dragon parade and incredible food scene, from hand-pulled noodles to savory dumplings. Los Angeles also joins in the festivities with its Golden Dragon Parade in Chinatown, complemented by art exhibits and cultural workshops. From coast to coast, the United States offers diverse and unforgettable ways to welcome the Year of the Snake.

Best places to celebrate in the United States:

• San Francisco Chinatown – Chinese New Year Parade, Grant Avenue, and Portsmouth Square.
• New York City (Manhattan Chinatown) – Lunar New Year Parade and cultural performances.
• Flushing, Queens – Dragon parades and authentic Chinese cuisine.
• Los Angeles Chinatown – Golden Dragon Parade and art-focused festivities.
• Chicago Chinatown – Annual New Year Parade and food markets showcasing traditional dishes.

United Kingdom: Where Heritage Meets Festive Splendor for the Year of the Snake

London’s Chinatown, nestled in the heart of Soho, is the epicenter of Lunar New Year celebrations in the United Kingdom. As the Year of the Snake approaches, the streets are adorned with vibrant red lanterns, creating a mesmerizing canopy of light. The grand Lunar New Year Parade is the highlight, weaving through the West End with colorful floats, dragon and lion dances, and performers dressed in traditional Chinese attire. Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square host cultural performances, live music, and martial arts demonstrations, drawing crowds from all over the city.

Food lovers will find themselves in paradise as Chinatown’s restaurants roll out special Lunar New Year menus. Indulge in traditional dim sum, crispy roast duck, and sweet sesame balls at iconic spots like Four Seasons or BaoziInn. For a deeper cultural experience, visit the Chinese Cultural Centre, where you can participate in workshops like calligraphy and lantern making. Whether you’re soaking in the festive atmosphere or savoring authentic dishes, London’s Chinatown offers a vibrant and unforgettable celebration of the Year of the Snake.

Best places to celebrate in the United Kingdom:

• London Chinatown, Soho – The heart of the celebrations with parades, lanterns, and lion dances.
• Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, London – Cultural performances and live shows.
• Four Seasons, London Chinatown – Famous for its roasted duck and festive menus.
• Manchester Chinatown – Home to the North West’s largest dragon parade and cultural exhibits.
• Birmingham Chinatown – Known for street performances and traditional New Year feasts.

France: Where Tradition and Elegance Blend for the Year of the Snake

France’s Lunar New Year celebrations are centered around Paris, particularly in the 13th arrondissement, home to the city’s largest Chinatown. As the Year of the Snake begins, the streets come alive with vibrant parades, colorful lanterns, and the mesmerizing beat of drums accompanying dragon and lion dances. The grand parade is a must-see, featuring dazzling costumes, cultural performances, and a lively atmosphere that showcases the rich heritage of the Chinese-French community. Avenue d’Ivry and Avenue de Choisy become festive hubs, lined with shops and restaurants adorned in red and gold decorations.

Beyond the parades, Paris offers a culinary experience that’s hard to beat. Chinatown’s restaurants, such as Tang Frères and Lao Lane Xang, serve mouthwatering dishes like Peking duck, dumplings, and traditional New Year rice cakes. For those seeking cultural insights, the Guimet Museum of Asian Art hosts exhibitions that celebrate Chinese traditions, providing a deeper understanding of the festival’s significance. With its elegant mix of culture, food, and festivity, Paris transforms into a magical destination to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

Best places to celebrate in France:

• 13th Arrondissement, Paris – The heart of the celebrations with parades, lanterns, and cultural performances.
• Avenue d’Ivry and Avenue de Choisy, Paris – Vibrant streets adorned with festive decorations and traditional shops.
• Tang Frères and Lao Lane Xang, Paris – Renowned restaurants offering authentic Chinese New Year dishes.
• Guimet Museum of Asian Art, Paris – Exhibitions celebrating Chinese heritage and traditions.
• Belleville, Paris – An up-and-coming Chinatown with food markets and cultural events.

South Africa: A Unique Fusion of Cultures to Celebrate the Year of the Snake

South Africa might not be the first destination that comes to mind for Lunar New Year, but its two vibrant Chinatowns in Johannesburg offer a unique and exciting way to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Cyrildene Chinatown, located in the eastern suburbs, transforms into a lively hub of activity with traditional lion and dragon dances, vibrant decorations, and cultural performances. The streets come alive with the aroma of dumplings, bao buns, and sizzling woks, as local vendors and restaurants serve up authentic Chinese dishes. The festive atmosphere is infectious, blending Chinese heritage with South Africa’s diverse culture.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner Street Chinatown, the older of the two, offers a more historic and intimate celebration. Visitors can explore traditional Chinese shops selling lanterns, calligraphy brushes, and lucky charms while enjoying the sight of colorful banners lining the streets. The festivities also include firecrackers and martial arts displays, adding to the excitement. Whether you’re attending a New Year banquet or watching lion dancers leap through the air, South Africa’s Chinatowns promise a unique take on this global festival.

Best places to celebrate in South Africa:

• Cyrildene Chinatown, Johannesburg – Known for its lively lion dances, cultural performances, and authentic food stalls.
• Commissioner Street Chinatown, Johannesburg – A historic hub with traditional shops and intimate celebrations.
• Gold Reef City, Johannesburg – A family-friendly destination hosting Lunar New Year-themed activities.
• Cape Town International Convention Centre – Occasional Lunar New Year events with cultural showcases.
• Durban Chinese Market – A lesser-known gem offering Chinese delicacies and festive goods.

The Year of the Snake is a time for transformation, wisdom, and celebration, and there’s no better way to embrace its spirit than by exploring these incredible destinations. From the historic streets of China and the cultural vibrancy of the South Korea to the culinary delights of Malaysia and the festive parades in the United States, each country offers its own unique way to honor the Lunar New Year.

Whether you’re drawn to the grand lantern festivals of Japan, the lively markets of Singapore, or the intimate charm of France’s Chinatown, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences filled with tradition, flavor, and festivity. So pack your bags, follow the red lanterns, and immerse yourself in the magic of the Year of the Snake. Wherever you choose to celebrate, you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

The post China, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, US, UK, France, and South Africa Shine as Top Travel Destinations to Celebrate Year of the Snake: TTW New Report appeared first on Travel And Tour World.