Countries That Celebrate Lunar New Year – Where Should You Travel?

Lunar New Year is not only an important occasion for Vietnamese people, but also a special time across many Asian countries. With unique cultural traditions, countries that celebrate Lunar New Year offer a festive atmosphere and unforgettable travel experiences. So, where should you travel abroad during Tet? Let Vietjet take you through the top destinations to plan your first adventure of the year!

1. Introduction to Lunar New Year and Countries That Celebrate It

Lunar New Year, also known as Tet Nguyen Dan, is the biggest traditional holiday in many Asian countries such as Vietnam, China, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Taiwan. It’s a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and wishing for a prosperous new year.

Fireworks during Lunar New Year are a traditional activity, creating a festive and warm atmosphere that symbolizes driving away bad luck and welcoming a peaceful, happy new year.

Each country celebrates Lunar New Year in its own unique way—from customs and traditions to signature dishes. This cultural diversity creates a special allure, making Lunar New Year an ideal time for travelers to explore and experience new destinations.

In recent years, traveling abroad during the Lunar New Year has become increasingly popular among Vietnamese tourists.

See more:Where to travel and what to do during Lunar New Year?

2. Which Country Should You Visit During Lunar New Year?

Traveling abroad during the Lunar New Year is no longer unfamiliar to Vietnamese travelers. The Tet holiday usually offers an extended break, making it the perfect time to relax and recharge through journeys to distant and exotic places.

2.1 China

Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, is the most important holiday in China. It typically lasts from the 8th day of the 12th lunar month to the 15th day of the first lunar month. During this time, families clean their homes, hang red couplets, set off fireworks, and gather for reunion feasts. Every dish—like dumplings and nian gao (sticky rice cake)—carries auspicious meanings, symbolizing prosperity and luck. Streets across China are magnificently decorated and bustling with festive energy.

If you visit China during the Lunar New Year, don’t miss:

Beijing: Visit the Temple of Heaven or join cultural activities at the Forbidden City.
Shanghai: Explore the ancient Yuyuan area adorned with vibrant lanterns.
Hong Kong: Experience grand parades and stunning fireworks at Victoria Harbour.

China’s Lunar New Year is highlighted by traditions such as lion dances, red lanterns, and dazzling fireworks to usher in a lucky new year.

Book direct flights to China with Vietjet today, with promotional fares starting from only 890,000 VND, and begin your journey to discover Chinese culture.

See more: How much does it cost to travel to China?

2.2 South Korea

Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, is a time for family reunions, ancestor rites (called Charye), and playing traditional games like Yutnori.During Seollal, Koreans honor their ancestors with Charye rituals and enjoy traditional foods such as tteokguk (rice cake soup) and jeon (savory pancakes). People also wear hanbok (traditional clothing) and engage in folk games.

Korea’s weather during early spring is mild, making it an ideal destination for travel. Top places to enjoy the festive season include:

Seoul: Celebrate at Gyeongbokgung Palace or join special events at Namsangol Hanok Village.
Busan: Enjoy light festivals and fireworks at Haeundae Beach.
Jeonju: Discover the charm of Hanok Village, a hub of traditional Korean culture.

During Lunar New Year, Gyeongbokgung Palace becomes a cultural hotspot with royal reenactments, traditional performances, and a solemn yet festive setting that brings Korean heritage to life.

Vietjet’s direct flights to Seoul and Busan help you enjoy a fulfilling Tet holiday. Book your flight to Korea now to catch promotional fares starting at just 890,000 VND.

See more:Does South Korea celebrate Lunar New Year? Should you visit Korea during New Year’s?

2.3 Singapore

Singapore’s Lunar New Year is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, featuring dynamic events like the Chingay Parade and bustling festive markets. It's a time when locals pray for good luck and prosperity in the new year.

Tet celebrations in Singapore offer a unique twist compared to other countries. If you have the chance, don’t miss out on these highlights:

Chinatown: Soak in the Tet spirit through cultural performances and delightful street food.
Gardens by the Bay: Witness stunning light shows in an enchanting setting.
Marina Bay Sands: Join the New Year fireworks extravaganza.

During Lunar New Year, Singapore lights up with thousands of colorful lanterns adorning the streets—especially in Chinatown—creating a festive, radiant, and heartwarming ambiance.

With direct flights to Singapore, Vietjet offers a convenient way to explore the Lion City starting from only 240,000 VND.

See more: How much does a 3-day, 2-night trip to Singapore cost?

2.4 Malaysia

In Malaysia, the Lunar New Year is a vibrant celebration filled with lion and dragon dances, family reunion dinners, and symbolic dishes like pineapple tarts and yusheng (prosperity toss salad), which signify luck and abundance.

Top places to experience Tet in Malaysia include:

Kuala Lumpur: Visit Thean Hou Temple and enjoy traditional performances.
Penang: Join the light festivals in George Town’s historic district.
Malacca: Explore Chinese New Year rituals in the city's heritage neighborhoods.

During Lunar New Year, Malaysia welcomes the new year with dazzling firework displays, especially in Kuala Lumpur, attracting both locals and tourists to join the lively and vibrant festivities.

Book your flight to Malaysia with Vietjet today and enjoy special fares starting from only 240,000 VND to experience the festive atmosphere firsthand.

See more: Malaysia self-guided travel for 4 days 3 nights: Itinerary & Costs

2.5 Taiwan

Lunar New Year in Taiwan is a time for family reunions, temple visits, and participating in unique cultural celebrations. The sky lantern festival in Pingxi is a highlight not to be missed, symbolizing wishes for a prosperous and joyful year ahead.

Suggested destinations in Taiwan to enjoy Tet festivities:

Taipei: Stroll through Dihua Old Street, famous for selling all sorts of New Year goods.
Pingxi: Take part in the Sky Lantern Festival, a beautiful tradition of releasing lanterns with prayers into the sky.
Taichung: Marvel at the colorful Lantern Festival, lighting up the city with joy and creativity.

The Pingxi Festival in Taiwan is famous for its sky lantern release, carrying wishes for the new year into the night sky, creating a magical and meaningful atmosphere during the Lunar

New Year.With direct flights to Taiwan, Vietjet is the perfect choice to explore a vibrant, festive Taiwan, with promotional fares starting at just 790,000 VND.

Explore the world with Vietjet this Tet holiday!

See more: Taiwan travel guide: 8 must-know tips for a self-guided trip

3. Travel Tips for Lunar New Year Trips

To make the most of your international Lunar New Year trip, keep these tips in mind:

Book flights early: Tet is peak travel season, so secure your flight and train tickets in advance to get the best deals.
Reserve accommodations ahead of time: Hotels and homestays tend to fill up fast during Tet. Book at least 1–2 months early to avoid last-minute hassle.
Apply for visas in advance: Some countries require a visa. Prepare your documents and apply 3–4 weeks before your departure date.

See more:Lunar New Year 2025 Holiday Schedule – How many days off will there be?

Lunar New Year is not only a time for family reunions but also a fantastic opportunity to explore unique Tet celebrations across Asia. Whether you choose to visit China, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, or Taiwan, each destination offers its own cultural charm and unforgettable experiences.

Vietjet makes it easier than ever to travel during Tet with special 0 VND fare promotions available daily from 12:00 to 14:00. It's the perfect chance to enjoy an affordable and exciting start to your new year.

Plan your journey today and kick off your year with adventure!

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