The following is our pick of 3 must-see cultural festivals in Asia roughly organized chronologically.
1. Harbin International Ice & Snow Sculpture Festival (China)
The annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is perhaps the largest ice and snow festival in the world. Taking place in the winter months, this unique festival showcases beautiful ice sculpture artworks.
When to go: The festival is officially held from January 5 to February 5, but exhibits may open earlier and stay open longer.
Top tip: You’ll definitely want to take lots of pictures at the festival, but keep in mind that it’s extremely cold in Harbin in January, which can sap (消耗) battery life faster than usual. Bring extra batteries or warm your battery occasionally to keep it working.
2. Songkran (Thailand)
Songkran is one of Thailand’s most famous cultural festivals. People celebrate by going to the streets, covering each other in brightly colored chalk or talc (爽身粉), and throwing water at everyone. The throwing of water is a way to clean and refresh, while also showing respect.
When to go: Songkran always takes place from April 13th to 15th each year.
Top tip: Wear appropriate footwear! While we’re on the subject of clothing, there’s no dress code to the event — anything you don’t mind getting wet is fine — but do remember that some colors become see-through when wet.
3. Winter Light Festival (Japan)
Created with over seven million LED lights charged using solar panels to reduce the impact on the environment, Japan’s biggest winter illumination (彩灯) includes themed light shows every year in a theme park.
When to go: Open from 9am to 9pm, the theme park itself can be enjoyed year-round, but the Winter Festival runs for four months from mid-October to mid-March.
Top tip: Wear lots of warm clothes and try to go during the weeknight if you can, because weekends get really crowded.
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