Unique New Year’s Celebrations in Several Asian Countries

The end of the year, typically in December, is always enlivened with fun activities, such as national and international music festivals, fireworks, barbecues, vacations, and more. It is no wonder that many people take their annual leave to enjoy the New Year’s celebrations.

In several Asian countries, year-end festivities are celebrated with much enthusiasm. In fact, some of the traditions are quite unique. Curious? Let’s take a look at these unique New Year’s celebrations in this article! 

Japan

Japan, The Land of the Rising Sun, has several traditions that might not be widely known. One of them is Shōgatsu, a custom where Japanese people thoroughly clean their homes for New Year’s. This practice is intended to expel negative energy from the house. 

Besides cleaning, Japanese families also cook and eat soba together. Eating soba on New Year’s Eve is believed to bring longevity, health, and abundant fortune in the coming year. An even more unique tradition is the widespread popularity of KFC dinners, where many Japanese enjoy a meal at KFC restaurants.

People are willing to stand in line just to eat at this fast-food joint. This tradition started when Takeshi Okawara, the manager of Japan’s first KFC outlet, heard that foreigners missed home-cooked meals during Christmas. He then introduced a special Christmas menu featuring fried chicken in 1974, and the tradition has continued ever since.

The Philippines

Known as the “Rice Granary of Asia”, the Filipinos celebrate New Year’s by opening all windows and doors in their homes. They do this because they believe that the New Year’s brings good fortune into their lives. Opening windows and doors lets negative energy out while inviting positive energy in. 

Another unique aspect is how the Filipinos associate New Year’s with “round” shapes, symbolizing “prosperity”. That is why, during New Year’s celebrations, many of them wear round accessories, dress in polka dots, and eat 12 grapes before midnight.

Singapore

In Singapore, welcoming New Year’s is marked by the Festival of Lights, during which city streets are decorated with sparkling lights, making the city even more stunning. Various attractions are also held in several areas, such as:

• Orchard Road. Every year-end, Orchard Road is decorated with ornamental lights, complemented by art and music performances showcasing the talents of local artists.
• Chinatown. Similar to Orchard Road, to welcome the New Year’s, Chinatown is adorned with festive decorations, along with cultural performances highlighting Chinese traditions.
• Little India. People can enjoy exuberant traditional dance shows, live music, and cultural parades while counting down to midnight in Little India.

Turkey

Situated partly in Asia, Turkey eagerly celebrates the New Year’s. Unique traditions, such as smashing a pomegranate in front of the house—symbolizing good luck for the coming year, have been maintained to welcome the New Year’s in this country. 

Another interesting custom involves turning on water taps and unlocking padlocks, symbolizing openness to abundance and fortune in the New Year’s. Additionally, many people wear red clothing, believed to bring luck in love for the year ahead. This practice is particularly common among Turkish women.

Those countries' unique New Year’s traditions are truly fascinating, right? Curious to experience them yourself? Plan a trip to these countries during the New Year’s holidays. For a safe journey, make sure to purchase your Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia. Having insurance ensures your travels are convenient and without worry.