If you are planning a trip to China during the Spring Festival, you are in for a wild ride. It is the biggest holiday on the planet—a time when the whole country erupts in red lanterns, fireworks, and incredible food.
But where should you go to feel the real “Nian Wei” (年味)—that distinct, nostalgic flavor and atmosphere of the New Year?
Forget the usual business hubs. We have curated a list of 6 cities, from the snowy north to the subtropical south, where the New Year spirit is absolutely electric. Let’s pack your bags!
1. Harbin: A Snowy Fairytale
The Vibe: Frozen fantasy meets Russian charm.
Harbin is the “Big Brother” of the Northeast. It is famous for its bone-chilling cold, but the festive atmosphere is incredibly warm. It feels like stepping into a winter wonderland where European architecture meets Chinese hospitality.
Why You Should Go
The Ice and Snow World (冰雪大世界)
This isn’t just a few ice sculptures; it is a life-sized glowing city made of ice. You can slide down massive ice slides—it is thrilling!
Central Street (中央大街)
Stroll down this cobblestone street lined with Russian-style buildings. Stop by the St. Sophia Cathedral (圣索菲亚教堂) for a light show that looks straight out of a movie.
Snow Expo
Head to Sun Island (太阳岛) to see massive, intricate snow sculptures.
Must-Eats
Harbin Red Sausage (哈尔滨红肠)
Smoky and garlicky, a local staple.
Iron Pot Stew (铁锅炖)
A massive communal stew cooked right at your table—perfect for warming up.
Frozen Pears (冻梨)
A unique, icy treat that turns black when frozen. Don’t knock it ’til you try it!
Pro-Tip
It is extremely cold (-20°C to -30°C). Batteries die instantly, so keep your phone close to your body with a heat pack. Wear shoes with grip—the streets are icy!
2. Xi’an: The Golden Age of History
The Vibe: Time travel back to the Tang Dynasty.
If you want to see how ancient emperors celebrated, go to Xi’an. During the Spring Festival, the city is decked out in thousands of lanterns, and locals love dressing up in Hanfu (汉服)—traditional Chinese clothing.
Why You Should Go
Grand Tang Everbright City (大唐不夜城)
Walking here feels like you have stepped onto a movie set. The lights, the music, and the performances are immersive.
The Lantern Festivals
The City Wall (西安城墙) and Tang Paradise (大唐芙蓉园) host spectacular lantern shows.
History
Of course, you have the Terracotta Warriors (兵马俑), but don’t miss the Shaanxi History Museum to see the treasures of the Tang Dynasty.
Must-Eats
Roujiamo (肉夹馍)
Often called a Chinese hamburger.
Paomo (羊肉/牛肉泡馍)
A rich mutton or beef soup where you break bread into the bowl first.
Biangbiang Noodles (Biangbiang面)
Thick, hand-pulled noodles with a spicy kick.
Pro-Tip
Stay near the Bell Tower (钟楼) for the nightlife and food, or near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔) if you want those stunning night views.
3. Luoyang: The Divine City
The Vibe: Royal grandeur and lively temple fairs.
Luoyang is another ancient capital, often less crowded than Xi’an but just as rich in culture. It was the “Divine Capital” of Empress Wu Zetian. The streets are filled with drums, gongs, and parades.
Why You Should Go
Temple Fairs (庙会)
Places like the Guanlin Temple (关林庙) host traditional fairs with folk art and snacks.
Longmen Grottoes (龙门石窟)
Seeing these massive carved Buddhas illuminated at night is a spiritual experience.
Sui-Tang Luoyang City
Catch the 3D projection light show at the Yingtianguate (应天门)—it is a mix of ancient architecture and cyberpunk tech.
Must-Eats
Water Banquet (洛阳水席)
A unique series of soups and dishes served in a specific order.
Lamb Soup (羊肉汤)
The local breakfast of champions.
Pro-Tip
Book tickets for major sites like the Longmen Grottoes in advance, as it is a peak travel season.
4. Nanjing: Romance on the River
The Vibe: Poetic, elegant, and dazzling.
Nanjing offers a “Qinhuai flavor” (秦淮年味)—a mix of southern romance and history. The lantern festival here is legendary and dates back centuries.
Why You Should Go
Qinhuai River (秦淮河)
Take a boat ride at night near the Confucius Temple (夫子庙). The lanterns reflecting on the water are breathtaking.
Porcelain Tower (大报恩寺)
Visit for a modern, artistic take on Buddhist blessings and light shows.
Niushou Mountain (牛首山)
A stunning modern architectural marvel where people go to ring the bell for good luck.
Must-Eats
Salted Duck (盐水鸭)
Nanjing’s signature dish.
Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup (鸭血粉丝汤)
Comfort food in a bowl.
Tangbao (汤包)
Soup dumplings that explode with flavor.
Pro-Tip
Traffic can be heavy. Use the metro to get around, especially when heading to the Confucius Temple area.
5. Fuzhou: The Spirit of Folklore
The Vibe: Mysterious, traditional, and loud.
Fuzhou’s New Year is deeply rooted in local “Min” culture. You will see unique “Gods Parades” (游神), where massive effigies of deities parade through the streets. It is a raw, authentic cultural experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Why You Should Go
Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (三坊七巷)
A beautifully preserved historic block perfect for walking, watching Fujian Opera (闽剧), and seeing lanterns.
Intangible Cultural Heritage
Watch out for the “Gods Parades”—it is like a carnival but with deep religious significance.
Minjiang River (闽江)
Take a night stroll to see the city lights.
Must-Eats
Fish Balls (福州鱼丸)
Bouncy fish balls with meat filling.
Meat Yan (肉燕)
A dumpling where the skin is actually made of pounded meat!
Buddha Jumps Over the Wall (佛跳墙)
A luxurious soup famous in the region.
Pro-Tip
Check the “Meet Fuzhou” (遇见福州) WeChat account or ask your hotel concierge for parade schedules, as they are the highlight of the trip.
6. Foshan: The Kung Fu New Year
The Vibe: Energetic, loud, and full of action.
Located in the south near Guangzhou, Foshan is the home of Bruce Lee’s ancestors and the Lion Dance. If you like martial arts and distinct Cantonese culture, this is the place.
Why You Should Go
Lion Dancing (醒狮)
This isn’t just a dance; it is a sport. Watch them jump on high poles at the Ancestral Temple (祖庙).
Flower Markets
In the south, people buy flowers for luck. The “Water Flower Market” is a beautiful sight.
Fireworks & Iron Flowers
Catch the molten iron throwing performance (打铁花)—it looks like dangerous, beautiful golden rain.
Must-Eats
Shunde Cuisine
Foshan (specifically the Shunde district) is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Try the Double-Skin Milk (双皮奶) and Raw Fish Salad (鱼生) if you are brave!
Morning Tea (早茶)
Enjoying Dim Sum is a mandatory morning ritual here.
Pro-Tip
You can fly into Guangzhou and take the metro or a short car ride to Foshan. It is very accessible.
Essential Tips for International Travelers
Book Early
The Spring Festival is the largest human migration on earth. High-speed train tickets and hotels sell out weeks in advance.
Digital Payment
Download Alipay or WeChat and link your international credit card. Cash is rarely used.
Expect Crowds
The crowds are part of the “Re Nao” (热闹 – lively) atmosphere. Embrace it!
Navigation
Use Apple Maps (works well in cities) or download the English version of the Trip.com app for bookings.