The New Year Traditions from City to City in the Bamboo Curtain Country

Chinese New Year is the most festive and anticipated celebration by the Chinese people all over the world. This celebration is not a mere change of year, but it is rich in meaning that has been passed down from generation to generation. Thus, Chinese New Year is a sacred moment for families to gather, give thanks for the blessings they have received, and ask for the blessings in the new year.

One of the interesting things about the festive celebrations in the Chinese New Year is the diversity of its traditions. The unique traditions during the celebrations are an inseparable part of the Chinese culture, and these traditions are passed down from generation to generation. Although celebrating the same event, each region in China has its own way to celebrate it. From the prayer procedures, special dishes, to art performances, all have their own unique characteristics that distinguish them from other regions.

Are you curious about the festivity of the Chinese New Year celebrations in various cities in China? Let’s explore them! From the capital city of Beijing, which has lively lion dance performances and dazzling red lanterns, to other cities such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu, which have their own uniqueness, each city has a very fascinating Chinese New Year tradition. Let’s check out the details!

Beijing

As China's capital city, Beijing is certainly the center of a very lively Chinese New Year celebration. During the celebration, Beijing offers a variety of exciting activities from the carnivals, Peking Opera, martial arts, acrobatics, music, lion and dragon dances, festival of foods, arts and crafts, cultural performances, and much more.

As a tradition to welcome the Chinese New Year, residents in North China stick paper-cuts, red knots, and various symbols of good luck on the windows and doors of their homes. The Chinese people believe the decorations have the power to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to all family members. Red envelopes filled with money, which are usually given to children and respected elders, are also prepared to symbolize affection and good wishes.

Shanghai

As China's economic and cultural center, Shanghai is a magnet for tourists who wish to experience a different atmosphere during the Chinese New Year. One of the main attractions in Shanghai is the Yuyuan Garden Lantern Festival. Thousands of colorful lanterns with various shapes and sizes decorate this garden, creating a very fascinating and astonishing view.

The Chinese people celebrate the New Year with traditional dishes such as spring rolls and sweet tang yuan. Fish is also mandatory in the menu during celebration, and there is a unique tradition, in which the head and tail of the fish must be left intact as a symbol of good luck throughout the year. Meanwhile, in the Northeast region, the tradition of gathering with family while playing cards or mahjong is a characteristic of New Year's Eve.

Guangzhou

Guangzhou, the largest city in Guangdong province, is famous for its vibrant nightlife. No wonder this city's Chinese New Year celebration is also lively. One of the most popular traditions is Nian Ye Fan or New Year's Eve dinner. The dishes served are usually very varied and delicious, from roast chicken to steamed fish.

Unlike the tradition of hanging paper decorations in the North, the people in Southern China prefer to decorate their homes with pots of kumquat trees. The yellow kumquat fruit is considered a symbol of prosperity and abundant harvests. Besides, colorful daffodils and butterfly orchids are also popular decorations. They also have the tradition of giving red envelopes in the South, but the amount of money in it is often carefully chosen, as they believe some numbers are considered to bring luck such as 88, 666, or 999.

Chengdu

Chengdu, a city famous for its pandas, celebrates Chinese New Year with warmth.  One of the main attractions of the celebration in Chengdu is the well-known Sichuan opera performance, which can be watched at the Shufeng Yayun Teahouse. The Sichuan opera,  with its colorful costumes and dynamic movements, is surely entertaining for tourists.

In addition to opera performances, Chengdu offers a variety of other exciting activities during the Chinese New Year celebrations. You can find delicious Sichuan dishes at the traditional markets, such as hot pot and mapo tofu. The city parks are also beautifully decorated, making them a great place to enjoy the day with your family.

Each city in China has its own unique and interesting Chinese New Year traditions. From the most festive celebrations to the more tranquil traditions, each has its own charm. If you want to experience the Chinese New Year atmosphere directly, it is a good idea to visit one of the cities in China.

When planning a trip during the Chinese New Year, don't forget to always prepare yourself before traveling with Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia. With travel insurance, you won't have to worry and can focus on celebrating the Chinese New Year with your loved ones.