Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Asia

Asia is home to some of the most exciting and diverse celebrations in the world, with New Year's Eve celebrations being no exception. From extravagant firework displays and all-night parties to traditional cultural ceremonies, we believe it’s one of the best continents to welcome in the new year. We’ve shared our top recommendations for an unforgettable NYE experience in Asia below: 

Bangkok, Thailand

If you’re looking for vibrant street parties and a festive atmosphere, Bangkok is the place to be. Known for its buzzing nightlife, every New Year’s Eve Bangkok becomes a spectacle of lights and colours. CentralWorld, one of the largest shopping centres in the world, hosts a countdown party with impressive fireworks, local food stalls and massive LED screens broadcasting live concerts from top Thai and international artists. Bangkok’s rooftop bars along the Chao Phraya River offer fantastic views of the fireworks, with Asiatique The Riverfront being one of the most popular venues. While in town visit some of the city’s temples, including Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, for special ceremonies and light displays, or head to the Khao San Road for street performances, live music and delicious Thai street food. 

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, the city that never sleeps, is an exciting place to celebrate New Year's Eve, offering a blend of neon city lights, futuristic countdowns and traditional temple visits. Head to famous spots like Tokyo Skytree for unforgettable fireworks and light displays, or Shibuya Crossing for street parties and one of the biggest countdown events in the city, similar to the Times Square countdown in New York. Locals often visit temples like Senso-ji in Asakusa or Meiji Shrine for the first prayer of the year, known as "Hatsumode." If you’re travelling with kids, Tokyo Disney Resort holds a countdown event with breathtaking fireworks at midnight and a chance to celebrate New Year’s Day with all the Disney characters. Don't forget to indulge in Toshikoshi Soba, which is traditionally eaten on New Year’s Eve throughout Japan for many reasons including good luck and the desire to live long (like the length of a soba noodle).

Bali, Indonesia

For those seeking a more laid-back New Year’s Eve, Bali offers tropical celebrations across the island with a choice of serene or wild, depending on the vibe you’re looking for. If you’re in Kuta or Seminyak, most beach clubs and hotels host pool parties with DJs and fireworks, whilst Ubud, surrounded by rice paddies, coconut trees and lush forests, offers a more spiritual and tranquil experience. Despite being in the so-called rainy season, Bali is also a great destination for winter sun and offers lush greenery, stunning beaches and fascinating local culture to enjoy during the day. 

Singapore

Marina Bay is the heart of Singapore’s New Year celebrations, offering a stunning fireworks display and light projections. For those with children, Sentosa Island offers especially family-friendly activities and countdown parties. We’d recommend taking a ride on the Singapore Flyer (the world's tallest Ferris wheel) for impressive views of the city and festivities below. 

Hong Kong

Every New Year, Hong Kong puts on an epic firework display over Victoria Harbour. Enjoy the show from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Star Ferry. However, the best way to experience New Year’s Eve in Hong Kong is by taking a cruise boat to admire the spectacle of lights and sounds, and marvel at the city's iconic skyline. Throughout the night, the streets are buzzing with parades and festivities organised by the locals. You can also attend live concerts and countdown parties in Tsim Sha Tsui, where you'll find street markets, renowned hotels and upscale bars. 

Siem Reap, Cambodia 

If you’re in Cambodia over the festive period, Siem Reap is the perfect place to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The famous Pub Street is adorned with lanterns and colourful bars, offering a warm atmosphere to enjoy live music, traditional Apsara dance performances and delicious local cuisine. We would definitely recommend attending a special countdown event near Angkor Wat so you can witness the beautiful temple complex lit up against the night sky. Alternatively, visiting the complex first thing, at dawn, will be a New Year’s Day you never forget.

Goa, India

New Year’s Eve is the best time of year to party in Goa, with firework displays and outdoor celebrations taking place along the coast. The biggest parties are focussed around Anjuna Beach where world-class DJs play literally all night long. For a more relaxed party atmosphere, head to Palolem in the south. This idyllic beach is lined with ramshackled beach bars where you can enjoy free-flowing cocktails, bonfire parties and psytrance music. 

If you’re looking to book a last-minute trip to welcome in 2025, or you’re planning ahead for next year, we’d love to help you plan an unforgettable new year experience in Asia. Please get in touch with one of our Asia destination experts via phone on 020 7819 9770 or email info@ampersandtravel.com