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Christmas in Asia

While many Asian countries tend not to celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday, there is still plenty of fun and joy to be had on visiting the region during this jolly season. If you’re considering a trip to one or multiple Asian countries this Christmas, then there are plenty of great destinations that can provide you [...]

While many Asian countries tend not to celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday, there is still plenty of fun and joy to be had on visiting the region during this jolly season. If you’re considering a trip to one or multiple Asian countries this Christmas, then there are plenty of great destinations that can provide you with scenic beauty, dazzling Xmas lights, and a great inter-cultural experience. Here are a few different Christmas guides to experience Asia at its best.

China

Beijing is home to 11 churches, which have choirs and caroling during the holiday season, usually starting around 7 pm. For the majority of Chinese citizens, however, Christmas is more of a time to party than to reflect on spiritual events and the past, so if you’re looking for some Christmas themed fun then you’re in luck. For the closest western Christmas experience in China, make your way to Hong Kong. This city has some of the world’s best shopping and you’ll find plenty of English and Chinese church services. Be sure to take in the lights along the harbour front.

Thailand

If you’re looking to head somewhere warm for Christmas then there are few better places than the beaches of Thailand, and the southwest region gets by far the best weather. In Thailand, Christmas tends to be a bit of a non-event apart from a few decorations that are set-up for tourists and as a novelty for locals. There are, however, plenty of expats and tourists who make there way to this region during the holiday season, so there is plenty of fun to be had.

Philippines

The Philippines are renowned for their Christmas celebrations, featuring lavish light displays and events that grow in size and extravagance, starting from as early as September. The Philippines is a 90% Christian nation, so there is no surprise that it’s main event is Simbang Gabi, a series of masses held over nine nights and culminating in the mass on Christmas Eve.

India

Christmas tends to be a quite small celebration in India, especially in comparison to local religious holidays, but like many other countries around the world the nation has adopted some Christmas spirit. In some of the larger cities, such as Mumbai, and in the southern province of Goa (about 25% Christian), there are decorations and celebrations, as well as masses at the local churches.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing spot on the beach during your holiday season or a city to shop and party in there are plenty of great destinations to discover in Asia.

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On occasion, VagabondJourney.com accepts guest articles in order to cover stories that we are not able to with our staff alone. To guest post with us, contact the editor. has written 27 posts on Vagabond Journey. Contact the author.

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