Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China. From dazzling lantern festivals and temple fairs to fireworks and cultural performances, the country transforms into a vibrant celebration of family, fortune, and renewal. While travel peaks between late January and mid-February, the festive atmosphere makes it one of the most exciting times to visit. Here are the top 10 places to visit in China during the Chinese New Year for an unforgettable cultural experience.
1. Beijing – Temple Fairs and Imperial Celebrations
Beijing comes alive during Chinese New Year with colorful temple fairs at Ditan Park and Longtan Park, where visitors enjoy lion dances, dragon performances, folk art, and traditional snacks like tanghulu. Historic landmarks such as the Forbidden City and Summer Palace host special holiday exhibitions and cultural shows, including plum blossom displays and drum performances. Red lanterns decorate hutongs, creating a festive charm throughout the capital. Combining imperial heritage with lively street celebrations, Beijing is one of the best places to experience authentic Spring Festival traditions in China.
2. Harbin – Ice and Snow Festival Magic
Harbin offers a truly unique Chinese New Year experience with its world-famous International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. Massive illuminated ice castles at Ice and Snow World and artistic ice lanterns at Zhaolin Park create a frozen wonderland. Visitors can skate on the Songhua River or explore Snow Town’s folk activities under sparkling winter skies. Though temperatures drop below freezing, the dazzling light displays and festive performances make Harbin one of the most extraordinary places to visit in China during the Chinese New Year.
3. Xi’an – Ancient Lantern Traditions
Xi’an blends history and festivity beautifully during Spring Festival. The ancient city walls glow with vibrant lantern displays, while the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda hosts bell-ringing ceremonies on Lunar New Year’s Eve. Traditional shehuo folk parades fill the streets with music, costumes, and acrobatics. At Daming Palace and Yongxingfang, visitors can enjoy sugar figurines, paper-cut art, and Tang Dynasty-themed performances. As the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an offers a culturally rich and visually stunning Chinese New Year celebration rooted in centuries-old traditions.
4. Shanghai – Modern Glamour Meets Tradition
Shanghai combines futuristic skylines with traditional festivities during the Chinese New Year. Yuyuan Garden’s famous Lantern Festival features intricate light displays, zodiac themes, and bustling snack stalls. Fireworks illuminate the Huangpu River, while the Bund’s skyline glows with celebratory lights. Nanjing Road becomes a shopping haven for festive decorations and red envelopes. The city’s blend of East and West creates a dynamic holiday atmosphere, making Shanghai one of the most exciting urban destinations to celebrate Lunar New Year in China.
5. Guangzhou – Flower Markets and Cantonese Culture
Known as the “City of Flowers,” Guangzhou is famous for its massive Spring Festival flower markets. Families buy peach blossoms, kumquats, and orchids to symbolize prosperity and good fortune. The Guangfu Temple Fair features Cantonese opera, folk parades, and traditional crafts. A Pearl River cruise offers stunning nighttime views of the illuminated Canton Tower. Food lovers can indulge in authentic dim sum and festive dishes. For warm weather and vibrant local customs, Guangzhou is a top destination during the Chinese New Year.
6. Hong Kong – Spectacular Fireworks and Parades
Hong Kong celebrates Chinese New Year with world-class fireworks over Victoria Harbour, creating one of Asia’s most iconic holiday displays. The International Night Parade features colorful floats, lion dances, and global performers, reflecting the city’s East-meets-West identity. Flower markets and night bazaars offer festive shopping opportunities, while temples host traditional prayers for good fortune. With its energetic atmosphere and dazzling skyline, Hong Kong provides a lively and cosmopolitan way to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
7. Chengdu – Spicy Festivities and Cultural Performances
Chengdu offers a relaxed yet vibrant Chinese New Year celebration filled with temple fairs, lanterns, and Sichuan opera performances featuring dramatic face-changing acts. The historic Wide and Narrow Alleys are decorated with red lanterns and host festive food stalls serving hotpot and local snacks. Panda-themed events add a unique local touch for families. Known for its laid-back lifestyle and bold cuisine, Chengdu is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking authentic traditions paired with unforgettable flavors.
8. Hangzhou – Lanterns by the West Lake
Hangzhou provides a romantic and scenic Spring Festival experience. West Lake glows with floating lanterns, creating a peaceful and poetic atmosphere during the holiday. Lingyin Temple hosts traditional rituals, while Hefang Street offers festive snacks and handicrafts. Tea ceremonies highlight the region’s famous Longjing tea culture. Compared to larger cities, Hangzhou offers a more tranquil celebration, making it ideal for couples and travelers seeking natural beauty alongside cultural festivities during the Chinese New Year.
9. Suzhou – Classical Gardens in Festive Glow
Suzhou’s classical gardens, including the Humble Administrator’s Garden, shine with elegant lantern displays during the Chinese New Year. Traditional tea houses host performances of local opera and music, enhancing the city’s refined charm. Visitors can explore nearby water towns decorated with red couplets and glowing lantern reflections on canals. Silk markets and handicraft shops offer unique souvenirs. For those looking to escape big-city crowds while still enjoying authentic Spring Festival traditions, Suzhou offers serenity and timeless beauty.
10. Pingyao – Timeless Ancient Town Celebration
Pingyao Ancient City transports visitors back to the Ming and Qing dynasties during the Chinese New Year. The well-preserved city walls and courtyards are adorned with red lanterns and Spring Festival couplets. Temple fairs feature shadow puppetry, folk music, and traditional Shanxi performances. Fireworks light up the historic skyline, creating a nostalgic and immersive atmosphere. For travelers seeking old-world charm and authentic cultural heritage, Pingyao is one of the most atmospheric places to celebrate the Chinese New Year in China.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer dazzling fireworks, historical lantern festivals, snowy spectacles, or serene garden celebrations, these top places to visit in China during the Chinese New Year offer unforgettable cultural experiences. Plan ahead, expect festive crowds, and prepare to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most spectacular holiday traditions.