Buzz
Where should you visit in China during the 2025 Lunar New Year? Explore the details with Mytour Vietnam in the article below!
The Lunar New Year is not only a time for family reunions but also the perfect opportunity to explore new destinations. If you're seeking a place that combines modernity with rich traditional culture, China is a must-visit. The country is not only famous for its bustling cities like Beijing and Shanghai but also for its vibrant Lunar New Year celebrations.
Join Mytour Vietnam as we explore some of the top travel destinations in China during the Lunar New Year for a memorable and meaningful start to the new year!
Should You Visit China During the 2025 Lunar New Year?
The 2025 Lunar New Year, with a 9-day holiday, offers a fantastic chance for an unforgettable trip to China. This time frame is enough to explore vibrant cities like Beijing and Shanghai or admire the ancient beauty of famous historical sites.
Additionally, this is the perfect time to experience the traditional festive atmosphere with unique customs such as lion dances, Lunar New Year markets, traditional New Year foods, and spectacular fireworks displays. However, the Lunar New Year is also peak tourist season in China, so it's a good idea to plan your trip early to ensure a smooth journey!
Top Travel Destinations in China for the 2025 Lunar New Year
1. Beijing - China’s Capital
During the Lunar New Year, Beijing transforms into a vibrant city, different from its usual ancient charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere with lively traditional activities. The Ditan, Longtan, and Changdian Temple Fairs offer folk performances, fun games, street food, and intricate handicrafts.
The ancient streets of Old Beijing glow with the brilliance of lanterns, creating a magical setting. Universal Beijing Resort and Happy Valley are also popular spots for fireworks and impressive entertainment shows. For an active start to the new year, a visit to the Great Wall of China promises unforgettable experiences. Also, don’t miss the beautiful plum blossoms in Shouyi Garden and the stunning cherry blossoms in Yuyuantan Park for those perfect photo ops.
2. Shanghai - China’s Modern Metropolis
Shanghai, one of the most modern and vibrant cities in China, transforms into a shimmering spectacle filled with traditional charm during the Lunar New Year celebrations. This is the perfect time to experience the blend of ancient culture and contemporary life. The Lantern Festival at the Yuyuan Garden is a must-visit, where dazzling lights and colors come together with traditional cuisine and captivating art performances.
For those seeking a spiritual experience, visit Longhua Temple to partake in the New Year's bell-ringing ceremony, a ritual symbolizing good fortune. Additionally, Happy Valley and Shanghai Disney Resort promise joyful moments with fireworks, lanterns, and exciting entertainment activities.
3. Lunar New Year Travel in Hangzhou, China
If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic destination for the Lunar New Year, make sure to include Hangzhou in your list. At West Lake, visitors can admire the poetic views of the lake reflecting ancient temples and pavilions, while enjoying colorful performances of Peking Opera and dragon dances. Furthermore, the Mai Jia Wu Tea Village and Longjing Tea Plantation invite you to explore the famous tea culture of Hangzhou.
Qinghe Ancient Town is the perfect stop to enjoy traditional cuisine and shop for handcrafted goods. Don’t miss visiting Wushan Temple for vibrant lantern displays or experiencing the bell-ringing ceremony at the Liuhe Pagoda to usher in a prosperous New Year.
4. Suzhou - A Land Rich in History and Culture
With its rich history and distinctive culture, Suzhou becomes even more vibrant and lively during the Lunar New Year. The Panmen Gate stands out with its traditional market and unique stalls, while the Xiangmen Gate attracts with a dazzling display of modern lights.
Tiger Hill Garden, with its artificial snow and tea ceremony experience, is the perfect place to enjoy the warm spring atmosphere. The water music and fireworks at Jinji Lake or the 'Evening Drum and Morning Bell' festival in the ancient town of Tongli will create unforgettable moments during this bright New Year season.
5. Xishuangbanna in Yunnan, China
Located in the lush green landscapes of Yunnan, Xishuangbanna is the ideal destination for a Lunar New Year vacation. Famous for the vibrant Hongming Night Market, you can enjoy unique street foods like grilled beef jerky or crispy fried insects, while also picking up exquisite handcrafted souvenirs.
During the day, visit the ancient village of Mangkong Dai, where the 400-year-old history of the Dai people is preserved with traditional wooden houses nestled among trees. The Thai Ethnic Garden is a must-see, especially for its Water-Splashing Festival, offering an exciting experience with traditional dances, folk games, and cultural festivities.
6. Lijiang Old Town - China
The ancient city of Lijiang stands out for its traditional architecture and stunning landscapes, preserving many unique cultural features. During the Chinese New Year, night markets in areas like Huayufang and Yongchang not only offer handcrafted goods but also provide a chance to experience the distinctive cuisine of Southwest China.
Don't forget to prepare a beautiful dress to take impressive photos with the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and join in the Naxi cultural activities, such as campfire gatherings and floating lanterns on the river to make your New Year's wishes.
7. Shangri-La Valley in China
To learn about Tibetan New Year traditions, a visit to the beautiful Shangri-La is a must. The New Year here also coincides with Losar, the Tibetan lunar New Year festival. Exploring Shangri-La during this time allows visitors to immerse themselves in the unique festive atmosphere, with solemn prayer rituals held in ancient monasteries.
Notably, the Monlam Festival after New Year is a rare opportunity to witness unique Buddhist ceremonies and classical debates among monks. Additionally, the breathtaking natural scenery, with snowy mountains, colorful Mandala sand paintings, and rich Tibetan cuisine, creates a memorable exploration experience.
8. Zhangjiajie - China
With its majestic natural beauty, Zhangjiajie is the perfect destination for adventure lovers during the Lunar New Year. The highlight of this region is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where visitors can admire the towering sandstone columns, especially the 'Southern Heaven Pillar' – the symbol closely linked to the movie Avatar.
In addition, you can explore the Golden Dragon Cave, walk on the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, visit Baofeng Lake, enjoy local art performances, and stroll through the bustling Buxi pedestrian street. Moreover, the traditional Lunar New Year festivals of the Tujia people, including the kitchen-god ceremony, the New Year market, and the experience of making Ba Ba cakes, are all very enjoyable.
9. Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area in China
Renowned for its fairy-tale beauty, Jiuzhaigou is an ideal place to visit during the 2025 Lunar New Year holiday in China. Though winter can be chilly, the landscape here takes on a magical appearance with frozen lakes, waterfalls, and majestic snow-capped mountains.
You’ll have the chance to walk along snow-covered trails, gaze at the sparkling clarity of crystal-clear lakes, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of nature. Be sure to pack warm clothing to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of Jiuzhaigou during the winter.
10. Harbin Ice City in China
In addition to the well-known New Year festivals like lantern festivals and lion dances, visiting China during the New Year also offers the chance to experience the largest ice and snow festival in the world in Harbin. The highlight of the trip is the Harbin Ice Festival, featuring stunning ice sculptures that shimmer with vibrant colors.
Here, you will also find the Ice and Snow World park, which has a theme that changes annually according to the zodiac. It's the perfect place to celebrate both the Lunar New Year and the Ice Festival. You'll have the chance to admire unique ice temples, enjoy ice dance performances, and witness spectacular fireworks. Note that the temperature inside the park is much colder than in the city, so make sure to wear appropriate winter clothing.
11. Guangzhou City - China
During the Lunar New Year, Guangzhou becomes a vibrant, bustling city, showcasing the most lively spring festival in China. New Year celebrations in Guangzhou immerse visitors in a festival atmosphere filled with colorful decorations. The flower markets, which start three days before New Year's Eve, display a variety of fresh flowers and stunning decorative displays, with the most excitement on New Year's Eve.
Local artisans also showcase and sell calligraphy paintings, adding to the city’s unique cultural experience. The city delights visitors with spectacular performances, including light and drone shows at Canton Tower, a lantern festival at Yuexiu Park, and spring flower exhibitions on Haizamsa Island.
Must-Try Foods in China During Lunar New Year
1. Dumplings - A Traditional Dish for the Chinese New Year
Dumplings (jiaozi) are a staple dish that no Chinese family can do without during the New Year celebrations. The dough is made from wheat flour, filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, and vegetables, creating a rich and diverse flavor. Shaped like ancient gold ingots, dumplings symbolize wealth and good fortune. Whether boiled, steamed, or fried, they are enjoyed with black vinegar and spicy dipping sauce, offering warmth in the chilly weather.
2. Nian Gao - A Cake Representing Unity
The name of the nian gao (niangao) cake carries the meaning of 'rising higher each year,' symbolizing hopes for progress and success. Made from glutinous rice, sugar, jujube, and chestnuts, this cake offers a chewy, sweet, and fragrant taste. Not only is it delicious, but it also serves as a meaningful New Year's gift, wishing prosperity to loved ones.
3. Eight Treasure Rice - A Dish Symbolizing Abundance
The harmonious blend of glutinous rice and eight different ingredients forms the Eight Treasure Rice, a dish symbolizing prosperity and abundance. Ingredients like lotus seeds, jujube, longan, and candied fruits not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually appealing. Each serving of this rice is a wish for wealth and happiness to those who enjoy it.
4. Changshou Mian - A Dish That Wishes for Health and Longevity
On the festive table during Tết, the presence of Changshou Mian (longevity noodles) symbolizes wishes for health and long life for the whole family. The long, chewy noodles represent a durable and fulfilling life. These noodles can be prepared in various ways, from stir-fried to being served with a rich broth, each method bringing its own unique flavor.
5. Tang Yuan - Dumplings Representing Reunion
In the spirit of family reunions during the Lunar New Year, Tang Yuan (sweet rice dumplings) is an essential dish. These small, chewy dumplings made from glutinous rice flour, filled with sweet black sesame filling, are usually enjoyed with a warm, fragrant syrup. The round shape of the dumplings symbolizes unity and brings a sense of sweetness and warmth during the holiday season.
Budget Travel Tips for Visiting China During the Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year is the perfect time to travel to China, with many attractive tourist spots and unique cultural experiences. However, it’s also a major holiday, and without careful planning, expenses can quickly add up. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your trip to China during Tết without exceeding your budget.
- Book flights early: Train tickets are usually hard to find and very crowded, while booking a flight early often results in better prices, especially to less popular cities.
Choose less crowded destinations: Prioritize places like West Song Banna and rural areas to avoid large crowds and high costs in major cities.
Book hotel rooms in advance: Opt for budget hotels to save on expenses, but make sure to carefully check reviews and amenities before booking to ensure quality.
Thành phố nào sẽ là điểm đến trong hành trình du lịch Trung Quốc dịp Tết 2025 của bạn?
