5 Cities to Visit During Chinese New Year 2025

Chinese New Year 2025 is just around the corner! Have you planned how to spend the long holiday with family and friends? If you missed out on a year-end vacation, this is your chance to make the most of the extended weekend at the end of January 2025.

Chinese New Year 2025 falls on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, adjacent to the Isra Mi'raj commemoration holiday on Monday, January 27, 2025. Based on the government's decision, Tuesday, January 28, 2025 becomes a national collective holiday.

With a long enough holiday on Chinese New Year, you can take a road trip and explore cities that are full of Chinese New Year festivities.

Recommendations for Cities that Could Become Chinese New Year Tourism Destinations by 2025

Jakarta, Bogor, and Tangerang

For those in the Jakarta area, or anyone craving a vibrant urban vibe, spending Chinese New Year in Jakarta, Bogor, or Tangerang offers plenty of excitement.

• Glodok - Jakarta

Visit the Glodok area, Jakarta’s most famous Chinatown, and stroll through Petak Sembilan to experience the festive charm of this historic neighborhood.

Arrive a few days before the holiday, as many shops close on Chinese New Year itself. On the day, head to the Dharma Bhakti Temple, a focal point for celebrations.

• Pasar Lama - Tangerang

Don’t miss Pasar Lama, known for its lively Chinese New Year vibe and the legendary Boen Tek Bio Temple. If you visit outside the holiday, the nearby Benteng Heritage Museum is a fascinating stop. Enjoy culinary delights in the evening, as the market comes alive with food stalls.

• Suryakencana - Bogor

Head to the Suryakencana area, famous for its Chinese New Year atmosphere. Mark your calendar for February 12, when the Bogor Street Fest brings the city alive with parades and cultural attractions for the Cap Go Meh celebration.

Yogyakarta, Solo, and Semarang

Immerse yourself in the Chinese New Year spirit while enjoying the rich Javanese culture of Yogyakarta, Solo, and Semarang.

• Kampung Ketandan - Yogyakarta

Don’t miss Kampung Ketandan, known for its Chinese-style architecture and the Chinese Cultural Week (PBTY XX), running from February 6-12, 2025.

• Grebeg Sudiro - Solo (Surakarta)

Celebrate the unique tradition of Grebeg Sudiro, a parade featuring a towering “mountain” of food, including basket cakes, symbolizing gratitude and hope for the year ahead.

• Semawis Chinese New Year Market - Semarang

Visit the Semawis Chinese New Year Market, open from January 25-27, 2025, in the Cap Kao King area. And of course, a trip to Sam Po Kong Temple, one of Semarang’s iconic landmarks, is a must.

Palembang, South Sumatera

For a different flavor of Chinese New Year, head to Palembang, where Malay and Chinese influences come together beautifully. In Palembang, you can visit Kemaro Island, home to the striking Tri Agung Temple, a must-see during the celebrations.

To fulfill your appetite, savor Palembang’s culinary treasures, such as pempek, tekwan, and mie celor, dishes that reflect the fusion of Chinese and local cultures.

Medan, North Sumatera

Medan is a city where cultures collide and harmoniously blend, showcasing influences from Chinese, Malay, Batak, and Indian traditions. This rich cultural tapestry makes Medan an exciting destination, especially during Chinese New Year.

Be sure to visit the Maha Vihara Maitreya Temple, one of the largest temples in Southeast Asia, to experience the spiritual and cultural vibrancy of the celebration.

If you have extra time, expand your journey to nearby attractions like Lumbini Natural Park in Berastagi. Marvel at the golden pagoda, reminiscent of those in Thailand and Myanmar.

Singkawang and Pontianak

For an unforgettable Chinese New Year experience, head to Singkawang and Pontianak in West Kalimantan, two cities renowned for their lively celebrations.

• Singkawang - City of a Thousand Temples

Known as the “City of a Thousand Temples,” Singkawang boasts numerous historical places of worship. The highlight of the season is the Tatung Parade, held during the Cap Go Meh celebration, featuring vibrant cultural performances and rituals.

• Pontianak

The festive spirit of Chinese New Year is palpable here, with red and gold decorations adorning every corner of the city.

While in Pontianak, indulge in local specialties influenced by the culinary heritage of the Teo Chew people, such as Kwetiaw and Chai Kwe (Coi Pan), delicious treats crafted from rice flour.

Make Your Chinese New Year Journey Easier with TRAC

Planning a seamless and comfortable trip for Chinese New Year 2025? TRAC has you covered with convenient and flexible car rental options. TRAC’s services are designed to suit your travel needs.

TRAC makes traveling for Chinese New Year effortless and enjoyable, offering the freedom to explore vibrant cities or scenic routes without worrying about transportation.

Whether you prefer the convenience of a self-drive car rental or with a driver, TRAC provides flexible options to suit your needs.

Booking a TRAC car rental is also easy to do on the homepage of the TRAC website or the TRACtoGo application. Download the app now on Google Playstore or Apple Appstore.

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