17 best places to spend New Years in Asia (2024)

This is the ultimate list of the best places to spend New Years in Asia for every type of traveler. Plus I’ve included tips for experiences and tours in each city as well.

Asia is one of my favorite places in the world. The people are so welcoming and open, the weather is great, and it’s full of epic landmarks like Angkor Wat and The Great Wall of China.

Are you spending New Year’s in Asia and wondering where the best place is?

I’ve handpicked the best places for celebrating the new year where the vibe is amazing.

Let’s take a look!

The best places to spend New Years in Asia

But wait – when is New Year’s Eve in Asia?

Asia actually celebrates the New Year in March and April. But the Western New Year on December 31st is also widely celebrated.

Make sure to be in one of Asia’s major cities on that date!

17 best places to spend New Years in Asia

Japan – Tokyo

1. Tokyo, Japan

Ready to kick off the New Year in style? Tokyo’s the place to be!

Join the massive crowd at Shibuya Crossing for a countdown that’s nothing short of epic.

If you’re into something more spiritual, swing by temples like Meiji Shrine or Sensoji to hear the bells ring out 108 times—it’s a Buddhist tradition that’s all about starting fresh.

Also, don’t skip the “toshikoshi soba” noodles—they’re a tasty good luck charm for the year ahead.

United Arab Emirates – Dubai

2. Dubai, UAE

Want a New Year’s Eve that’s totally over-the-top?

Dubai is your spot! Imagine ringing in the new year with a jaw-dropping fireworks show at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

The city goes all out with luxury parties and incredible light shows. It’s glitzy, glamorous, and unforgettable.

China – Hong Kong

3. Hong Kong, China

Craving a New Year’s Eve with a beautiful skyline? Head to Hong Kong!

Watch fireworks burst over Victoria Harbour and light up the iconic skyline. The city pulses with energy, from lively street parties to glamourous rooftop bars.

Plus, the Symphony of Lights adds an extra sparkle.

Thailand – Bangkok and Islands

4. Bangkok, Thailand

For a New Year’s Eve that’s got it all, go to Bangkok.

Want fireworks?

They’ve got a mega display over the Chao Phraya River. Into parties? The city’s clubs and rooftop bars are buzzing.

You can even hop on a dinner cruise to ring in the new year on the water. Bangkok makes celebrating New Year’s Eve fun and sensational!

5. Phuket, Thailand

Dreaming of a tropical New Year’s Eve? Phuket is the answer!

Picture this: Fireworks lighting up the sky as you party on the beach.

From Patong Beach’s epic parties to the posh resorts offering swanky soirées, there’s something for everyone.

6. Koh Phangan, Thailand

Ready for a New Year’s Eve party that lasts till sunrise?

Koh Phangan is famous for its Full Moon Parties, and New Year’s Eve is the biggest party of them all!

Fire dancers, buckets of cocktails, and a sky full of fireworks dance the night away on Haad Rin Beach with thousands of fellow party-goers from all over the world.

India

7. Goa, India

The beaches in Goa turn into one big party on December 31st.

From Anjuna to Calangute, you’ll find DJ-led dance parties, bonfires, and fireworks right on the sand.

Whether you’re into EDM or chill acoustic sets, Goa’s New Year’s Eve scene has something for everyone!

8. Mumbai, India

Mumbai takes New Year’s Eve to the next level!

Think high-energy street parties and exclusive parties at five-star hotels.

The city that never sleeps lives up to its reputation with an amazing fireworks display at the Gateway of India.

Taiwan – Taipei

9. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei turns into a spectacle on New Year’s Eve!

The star of the show is the Taipei 101 fireworks display, lighting up the night sky in a burst of colors.

Want a street-level view? Head to Xinyi District, where the party vibe is infectious.

With live music, food stalls, and a crowd full of energy, Taipei’s New Year’s Eve is a must-experience.

Indonesia – Bali

10. Bali, Indonesia

Bali brings the ultimate New Year’s Eve vibe!

Imagine dancing on Canggu Beach with fireworks painting the sky or enjoying a sophisticated evening in Ubud’s lush settings.

Whether you’re up for a bustling beach party or a quieter, more romantic celebration, Bali has you covered.

This island paradise knows how to welcome the New Year in style.

Singapore

11. Singapore

For New Year’s Eve in Singapore, Marina Bay is the go-to spot for fireworks and light shows.

You can enjoy the night at rooftop bars or stay or celebrate at street level.

Don’t miss the iconic backdrop of Marina Bay Sands during the countdown.

Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi

12. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

In Ho Chi Minh City, New Year’s Eve means lively street parties and fireworks along the Saigon River.

District 1 is the main hub for all the action, featuring live music and food stalls.

If you’re after a mix of local flavor and festive excitement, this bustling Vietnamese city delivers a memorable December 31st.

13. Hanoi, Vietnam

In Hanoi, head to Hoan Kiem Lake for the New Year’s Eve fireworks.

The area is buzzing with people, street food vendors, and live music. If you’re in the mood for dancing, the city’s bars and clubs are open late.

Between the fireworks, the food, and the nightlife, Hanoi has a fun way to ring in the New Year.

South Korea – Seoul

14. Seoul, South Korea

In Seoul, the party is at the Bosingak Bell Pavilion where they ring a massive bell at midnight.

Fireworks light up the sky, and the streets fill with people celebrating.

If you’re into clubbing, neighborhoods like Gangnam and Hongdae keep the party going all night.

Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur

15. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur pulls out all the stops on New Year’s Eve.

The place to be is around the Petronas Towers, where a spectacular fireworks show lights up the sky.

Nearby, Jalan Alor is the place to be for great street food, while the Changkat area has bars and clubs for late-night fun.

Philippines – Manila

16. Manila, Philippines

Manila goes big on New Year’s Eve, especially in areas like Makati and BGC.

Expect awesome fireworks displays and lively street parties. If you’re a foodie, try the “Media Noche” feast, a local tradition.

If you want to go clubbing, Manila’s clubs have a range of options. It’s a high-energy way to ring in the New Year!

Sri Lanka – Colombo

17. Colombo, Sri Lanka

Last but not least, Colombo knows how to welcome the New Year with a bang.

Head to Galle Face Green for fireworks and a festive crowd. If you’re up for some dancing, the city’s nightclubs offer special New Year’s Eve parties.

Plus, many hotels host gala dinners and events.

FAQ – New Years in Asia

Where is the best Asia country to celebrate New Year?

For a lively street party, Bangkok is a great choice. If you prefer a mix of traditional and modern celebrations, go for Tokyo.

Where to celebrate New Year 2023 in Asia?

Looking to ring in New Year’s Eve 2023? Hit up Bangkok for street parties and awesome fireworks by the river.

Or go big in Dubai with fireworks at the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

Don’t overlook Hong Kong, where fireworks burst over the famous skyline at Victoria Harbour.

Which country has the best New Year celebration?

If you’re after massive fireworks and luxurious parties, Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is hard to beat.

For street parties and diverse festivities, Bangkok in Thailand is a fantastic choice. Both cities offer a New Year’s Eve that’s full of energy and excitement.

What is the best country in Asia 2023?

Well, it depends on what you’re after.

If it’s tourism, think Thailand for its beaches and culture, or Japan for its history and modernity.

Looking for work? Singapore and China have strong job markets.

For quality of life, Japan and Singapore usually come out on top.

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