The Top 10 Places to Celebrate New Year 2024 in Asia

Are you planning a New Year vacation or just looking for a different place for a New Year's Eve celebration? Come to Asia to experience a special and different celebration from your own country. Fantastic fireworks, exciting street countdown parties, friendly people and rich travel opportunities, not to mention warmer weather, make Asia a perfect place for a New Year holiday.

The following are the top 10 places to celebrate New Year in Asia. Links allow you to choose one and start planning your trip to Asia.

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Being rich in historical temples and modern bars and hotels, the amazing capital of Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Asia for welcoming in the New Year. The fantastic and colorful fireworks on New Year's Eve and great parties in Bangkok give an unforgettable experience to people coming from all around the world.

The world-class countdown landmark of Thailand at Central World Square is a must-visit place for New Year celebration. There the 1,400-meter-wide (almost a mile wide!) eco-friendly multimedia fireworks will give you a spectacular light-and-sound display.

Or you can join the street party with your family or friends at the atmospheric bars and restaurants at Khao San Road. There are numerous places with events for New Year's Eve in Bangkok. For more, see Places to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Thailand.

Besides the New Year Celebrations, Bangkok offers rich travel opportunities. You can visit Wat Pho to see the Reclining Buddha and make your New Year wishes. The Grand Palace is a must visit in Bangkok. If you have more time, pay a visit to the National Museum, take a boat trip along the Chai Phraya River, or go shopping in Chatuchak Market. For more, see Things to Do in Bangkok.

13-Day Essence of Thailand Tour Far More beyond Temples

2. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

If you are planning a trip for New Year in Vietnam, then spend your New Year's Eve in the largest city (Ho Chi Minh, previously Saigon). There you can take part in the biggest party in Vietnam. It is an unforgettable experience to spend New Year's Eve there.

Thousands of people celebrate this special time with their friends and families along the Saigon River. They are waiting for the midnight fireworks near the Bitexco Tower, which is the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City. If you don't want to join the crowds, then take a cruise on the Saigon River to admire the colorful fireworks displays. There are numerous nice restaurants or rooftop bars in the city where you can spend your whole afternoon while waiting for the countdown and midnight fireworks.

For a short trip, you could explore the oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh City (Giac Lam Pagoda) and visit the gardens around the temple. The War Remnants Museum is a good place to learn more about the Vietnam War. Another fantastic trip is the Bonsai River Cruise, on which you can take in the night views of the city along the river. See more on Planning a Trip to Vietnam.

15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour Immerse Yourself in Southeast Asia's Rich Cultural Heritage and Natural Wonders

China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.

Great Experience WOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easy More Stephen Hollis, Aug 2023

Alisa has has been great to work with Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive. More Ana Rausch, Aug 2023

Using Sharon right now to book our… Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand More Tracy, Aug 2023

Thailand, Singapore, Bali In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze. More Cassi Thunker, Jul 2023

Very supportive Very supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fast More Chi?n Nguy?n Ng?c, Jul 2023

My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism. More Richard, Jul 2023

A pleasure to plan with Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans. More Chris Williams, Jul 2023

Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again. More CL, Jul 2023

I never used a travel agent in my life I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience. More Antione Barry, Jul 2023

Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia! Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional. More Debi Hinerfeld, Jul 2023

We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand … It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ???? More SIMO el ghobar, Jun 2023

Wonderful Guides and Experience Our large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia. More Jessica Bennett, Jun 2023

Guide - Chai We travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn't bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life. More Customer, Jun 2023

Our guide Tanni was kind Our guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we'd made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience! More Marissa Manson, Jun 2023

We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip… Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!! More Diane Creitz, Jun 2023

Tanni for the win! 14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough. More Megan McGlynn, Jun 2023

This isn't my first trip with Asia… This isn't my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure! More Katie Potesta, Jun 2023

Amazing service Although we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -Alex More Alex, May 2023

I have never hear of this company… I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. More orge alvarez, May 2023

Coco Yang worked tirelessly to… From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods More Debbie Woods, May 2023

3. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Full of life and movement, with flea markets and many temples, Siem Reap is a great city to spend your New Year's Eve in Cambodia. Siem Reap has a bustling nightlife that you can enjoy for a whole night with your friends or loved ones.

Local celebrations can be seen in every restaurant, hotel, and bar at the streets with live music playing the whole night. Enjoy a delicious meal made specifically for the occasion while having a rest in a hotel or bar in Hap Guan Street. You can expect a magnificent New Year's Eve celebration in Siem Reap!

During your New Year holiday, you could spend a whole day to explore Angkor Wat — the largest Buddhist temple on earth. Or just walk around the 'Old Market' (the locals call it Psar Chaa) to experience the life of local people. Visit Cambodia Landmine Museum to learn more of the history and culture of Cambodia. Siem Reap has many more travel options to fill your holidays.

Suggested reading: 2-Week Southeast Asia Itineraries for Honeymoons, Families, and More

12-Day Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour Spellbinding Historic Sites, Natural Beauty & Welcoming People

4. Singapore

With its vibrant fusion of cultures, and friendly ethnic people, Singapore is a good choice for celebrating New Year's Eve. You will be amazed by the grand celebrations of the Lion City. There you can hop on the Singapore Flyer (world's tallest ferris wheel), to get a view of the festivities unfolding below. If you are traveling with kids, getting breathtaking views of Singapore from the sky is particularly recommended.

Top places to celebrate New Year's Eve in Singapore include Marina Bay, the Siloso beach party at Sentosa, and Wave House at Sentosa.

It is easy to find fun things to do in Singapore. A trip to the Gardens of the Bay can delight and increase your knowledge about Asian plants and flowers. You can also climb up the Marina Bay Sands Sky Park to get amazing sunset views of the whole city.

13-Day Private Singapore and Bali Journey of Discovery

5. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Capella Ubud: a tented camp hotel nestled in the heart of lush green forests in Ubud

If you are looking for a quieter, romantic, and contemplative place to welcome in the New Year, then Bali should be on your list. Bali is not only well-known for its beautiful and quiet beaches, but also for its diverse culture. Head for the cultural center of Bali, Ubud, to experience its slow-paced life at the main street, which is decorated with fairy lights for Christmas. Enjoy low-key music and a relaxed dance party on New Year's Eve.

After the New Year's celebration, you could visit the Museum Puri Lukisan, where you will see a wide range of artworks. Spend some time to visit a little temple (Pura Taman Saraswati), where amazing carvings of the Goddess Saraswati are on show all over the building. Try to learn some story in the Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung).

See more on Top 20 Things to Do in Bali — Best Activities Guide.

8-Day Private Authentic Bali Discovery Tour Discover the Authentic Bali

6. Goa, India

Long night parties, cheap beer, amazing beach-side fireworks, live music, and happy and friendly people make Goa a great destination to celebrate New Year's Eve. It is regarded as India's unofficial party capital. You can expect huge numbers of people gathering along the beaches to watch the colorful firework displays and enjoy traditional Hindi music and dancing parties.

Goa offers luxury hotels, wonderful resorts, and delicious food choices. It is a perfect city for youngsters to welcome New Year. During your New Year holiday, you can explore numerous spectacular forts in Goa, including Aguada, Chapora, Reis Magos, Corjuem, and so on. Spend some time to explore and learn more about the spiritual and architectural grandeur of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Goa.

See more on Goa Guide — Beaches, Yoga Retreats, and Wellness Resorts.

11-Day Inida Highlights and Goa Honeymoon Trip Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Mumbai - Goa

7. Kyoto, Japan

With a magical, charming, and romantic atmosphere, Kyoto is a good place to celebrate the New Year in Japan. The city is well-known for its geothermal springs, where you can relax in a thermal spa in its resorts surrounded by snow-laden branches in winter.

While waiting for the midnight countdown, you can explore the numerous traditional buildings and temples. You won't see a fireworks display in this quiet and beautiful city, but hundreds of bright lanterns and candles are lit to make the whole city look amazing.

You can also join the locals celebrating an important annual custom held at the city's temples or shrines. There the local people gather to ring the temple bell for the first time of the New Year. They believe the bell ringing will cleanse the bad luck of the old year and welcome good luck for the New Year.

For more days of touring after New Year's Eve in Kyoto, pay a visit to the beautiful golden Kinkakuji Temple, which is covered by gold and red leaves in winter. Learn more about Japanese chado ('the way of tea') by joining a tea ceremony at Jotokuji Temple. You may ascend the Kyoto Tower — the tallest building in Kyoto — to get a panoramic view of the whole city. See more on How to Plan a Trip to Japan.

11-Day Traditional Japan Tour Osaka - Hiroshima - Kyoto - Tokyo

8. Vientiane, Laos

If you are looking for a beautiful and relaxing city to spend your New Year's Eve in Laos, Vientiane is a good choice. Famed for its charming gold temples and historical sites, Vientiane offers great choices for resort hotels, relaxing cafés, and good restaurants.

Make sure to join the Tiger Beer Event at Nam Phou Square on New Year's Eve. The countdown party goes on from afternoon to midnight with the music playing for the whole night. The streets are decorated with colorful lights during the holiday. Vendors sell their food and drink while playing loud music. Sit around a long table to enjoy the delicious street food as the locals do while waiting for the countdown at midnight.

For more days in Vientiane, make sure to visit the best-known landmarks in Vientiane… Patuxai Victory Monument resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Or learn more about Buddhist culture from the sculptures of reclining Buddhas in Xieng Khuan ('Buddha Park'). Visit the Lao National Museum if you are interested in the history and culture of Laos. For more, see How to Plan a Trip to Laos.

14-Day Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos Tour Private tour to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos and get the best of Indochina

9. Hong Kong, China

From Christmas to Chinese New Year, Hong Kong offers a great party atmosphere for travelers from all over the world. You will be amazed by the colorful fireworks at the Victoria Harbor on the night of New Year's Eve. The best way to watch the fireworks is by taking a cruise ship to watch the colorful light and sound show as well as seeing the sparkling of skyline in Hong Kong.

Join the street parades and street parties organized by locals which last to the New Year countdown midnight. Or you can attend the live concerts and countdown parties in Tsim Sha Tsui where there are street markets, brand hotels, and high-class pubs and bars. Tsim Sha Tsui is also a great place to watch the new year fireworks.

For more tour activities in Hong Kong, you could pay a visit to The Peak, which is the highest point on Hong Kong Island. You can get a spectacular view of the city and Victoria Harbour from the Peak. Be prepared for crowds of people during the New Year Holiday and long queues for the tram.

You could spend a night to explore the traditional Chinese market at Temple Street Night Market and shop for souvenirs, electronics, and numerous street foods. Then have a cup of coffee or drink in the restaurants and bars of Lan Kwai Fong for a rest. See more on Christmas in Hong Kong.

10. Unawatuna, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is regarded as a hidden gem of Asia; it is a popular destination for many youngsters to spend their New Year's Eve and holiday. Compared with many places in Sri Lanka, Unawatuna is much quieter, more relaxed, and less crowded — a town which is perfect for couples to spend their romantic time during New Year's Eve. Unawatuna offers more reasonably priced boutique hotels than other places on the island of Sri Lanka during the New Year holiday.

To make full use of your holiday in Unawatuna, plan a short tour to Galle Fort, which is a about 10 minutes' drive from Unawatuna. Or take a snorkeling class at the main snorkeling spot: Jungle Beach. The beach is surrounded by jungle, and there is a coral reef located just a few meters out from the beach. For more, see How to Plan a Trip to Sri Lanka.

15-Day India and Sri Lanka Tour Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Negombo - Udawalawe National Park - Galle

Tour Asia at New Year with Local Experts

Want to discover more hidden gems and enjoy more authentic experiences in Asia? Travelling with a local expert opens up many more possibilities than trying to figure it out on your own. Tell us your interests, and one of our specialists will help you to maximize your travel experience by suggesting the optimal trip for the time you have, your budget, and the things you love to do.