When you first think of a Christmas getaway, you might think of visiting Prague, Paris or even Lapland, but you may not think of East Asia. Why wait until summer for a big getaway when you can escape the Baltic temperatures and grey skies of the UK and spend the winter season in the comfort of a deck chair, under the blazing sun in Thailand or under the neon lights and cool breeze of Tokyo?

But where are the best places to go in East Asia this time of year? Not to worry, this guide will recommend the 5 best places in East Asia to go on holiday in the winter and around Christmas time, so you can choose the right weather, surroundings and activities that fit into your ideas of the perfect Christmas getaway. 

1. Tokyo Japan

Japan may not be the traditional place to celebrate the Christmas holidays; however, it can be a magical city full of lights, good food and romance. In Christmas time, Tokyo is a cool 12 degrees Celsius, which is great for those who want a cold and Christmassy vibe, without being freezing. Although it isn’t an official public holiday, Japan still turns into a winter wonderland with the help of dazzling light displays scattered across many neighbourhoods. 

Experience the impressive winter scenes in Roppongi Hills and Shibuya, whilst on a romantic nighttime walk and then enjoy some local delicacies and traditions. The famous Christmas KFC bucket paired with a traditional strawberry sponge Christmas cake is a must-have when visiting the city for a uniquely Japanese Christmas tradition. For couples, friends or families looking for an energetic and unique city Christmas break, Tokyo has much to offer for a packed trip, combining modern city rush with traditional Japanese culture. 

2. Bangkok, Thailand

If you’re looking for a warmer Christmas break to escape from the icy European winter, Bangkok is a great place for you! Whilst most of Thailand is Buddhist, Bangkok’s shopping centres go all out with festive decor for an impressive Christmas show. Places such as CentralWorld erect giant Christmas trees, impressive light installations and entertaining performances for a tropical Christmas vibe. With a great range of entertainment, shopping, food and culture, this location is perfect for families who want a fun break or couples who need a vibrant getaway.

3. Sapporo, Japan

For those who dream of a white Christmas, Sapporo in Japan can fulfill your fantasies. Located in the north of Japan, Sapporo offers snowy landscapes, glowing winter festivals and a crisp holiday atmosphere. Its quaint traditional cottages are decorated with fairy lights, and huge Christmas trees are erected all over, making it the best place for a snowy evening walk after a long day of winter sports, visiting hot springs or hiking in the mountains. 

Make sure to plan logistics when travelling here as the heaps of snow do make it more difficult to get around in the winter, and also ensure to wrap up warm as the temperatures can average around -5 degrees Celsius in December. So, if you want a more serene escape, surrounded by nature, Sapporo is the place for you.

4. Singapore

Singapore offers a polished, vibrant and family-friendly festive vibe. In December, the city is filled with festive spirit due to its abundance of twinkling Christmas lights. Accompanied by tropical weather and a mix of cultural and modern entertainment, it’s a solid all-around destination for couples and families alike. It is acclaimed as one of the best and go-to Christmas spots for travellers to visit in winter, and for good reason. 

If you prefer a business and more warm and lively get away with festive decor and shopping galore, then Singapore has everything you want. Some must-visit locations are the Christmas Wonderland by the Bay to bring in the festive spirit and Sentosa Island to enjoy the great weather at the beach and water parks for fun for everyone. 

5. Hong Kong

Hong Kong brings high energy, a dramatic skyline and vivid holiday lights. If you want a big city Christmas thrill that you can get in Europe, but in a new location, with new culture and sights, Hong Kong is a great place to travel to this winter. There are many Christmassy sights to see, such as the Christmas display in The Peninsula in Hong Kong or even Winterfest in the West Kowloon district. 

So, if you want a bold cityscape with festive cheer, lights and lots of shopping, Hong Kong is the place for you. Not only can you enjoy the Christmas sights, but you can also experience the rich culture in the city, such as Victoria Peak or Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island. 

Get Planning

Wherever you go, you’ll be trading in the usual winter of the UK for something memorable, whether it’s the white snowflakes in Japan or the heat of Thailand. So, if you do want to go away this winter, try some of these locations. You might have a winter holiday so good that you might want to trade in your British citizenship for a permanent one. Your winter holiday could be so exceptional that you’ll consider exchanging your British citizenship for permanent residency.