Planning a trip abroad for Chinese New Year this year? Where should you go? DJB has rounded up 9 recommended destinations for Chinese New Year 2026, spanning everywhere from Japan to Southeast Asia. Make the most of 2026's 9-day long weekend, travel abroad with family and friends, and come back fully recharged to kick off the new year!

Image source: freepik

When is Chinese New Year 2026? A look at next year's holidays

Chinese New Year 2026 runs from 2/14 (Sat) to 2/22 (Sun), a full 9-day break. If you missed your chance to travel abroad last year, this is definitely the time to make up for it! DJB has also rounded up all 9 long weekends in 2026 — mark your calendar now and start planning ahead.

Here's the full 2026 holiday schedule:

Holiday Dates Days
Lunar New Year 2/14 (Sat) – 2/22 (Sun) 9 days total
228 Peace Memorial Day 2/27 (Fri) – 3/1 (Sun) 3 days total
Children's Day & Tomb Sweeping Day 4/3 (Fri) – 4/6 (Mon) 4 days total
Labor Day 5/1 (Fri) – 5/3 (Sun) 3 days total
Dragon Boat Festival 6/19 (Fri) – 6/21 (Sun) 3 days total
Mid-Autumn Festival & Teachers' Day 9/25 (Fri) – 9/28 (Mon) 4 days total
National Day 10/9 (Fri) – 10/11 (Sun) 3 days total
Taiwan Retrocession Day 10/24 (Sat) – 10/26 (Mon) 3 days total
Constitution Day 12/25 (Fri) – 12/27 (Sun) 3 days total

Where should you travel for Chinese New Year? Snow trips or winter escapes — plenty of options to choose from

Start your new year off right with a trip abroad! In recent years, more and more people are choosing to travel during the Chinese New Year holidays. A 9-day break is just the right length for a relaxed getaway. Whether you're heading to Japan to admire snow-covered scenery, or to Bali for warm sun and beaches, you're bound to have an unforgettable holiday. Let's look at the must-visit destinations abroad for Chinese New Year 2026!

1. Japan

Thanks to its convenient location, Japan has always been a top pick for travelers abroad. Where do you most want to go in Japan? DJB has rounded up must-visit spots — head to Japan with family and friends this Chinese New Year!

(1) Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, Hokkaido

The Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is a winter ice event held in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, running from 1/31-2/23 in 2026. The venue features ice sculptures made by spraying and freezing lake water, plus plenty of on-ice activities. There's also a dazzling fireworks show on weekend nights, and the surrounding hot spring district offers leisure activities and onsen baths — a top pick for anyone wanting to combine snow scenery with a hot spring soak.

Image source: 2026 event official website

(2) Tokyo Disney Resort

Disney is a hugely popular attraction year-round, with crowds ranging only from "a lot" to "an insane amount." If you're planning a visit, take advantage of the extended Chinese New Year break to spend a few extra days there, so you don't feel rushed trying to see everything in one day. For more details, check out 👉🏼The Tokyo DisneySea guide: a must-save, smooth route for exploring the whole ocean-themed world

Image source: Tokyo Disney Resort official website

(3) Universal Studios Japan, Osaka

Universal Studios is equally packed year-round, and choosing Chinese New Year for your visit helps you dodge the peak crowds around Christmas. For more on Universal Studios Japan, check out this article 👉🏼The Universal Studios Japan guide: all 9 zones, ticket prices, and express passes in one place

Image source: tripadvisor

(4) Shirakawa-go, Chubu region

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Shirakawa-go is one of the must-visit spots for Chinese New Year 2026! Famous for its steeply pitched, "hands-clasped-in-prayer" style thatched roofs, the village turns into a fairy-tale-like scene when blanketed in snow during winter. Its annual winter light-up event draws huge crowds every year, and since 2019, it's operated on a full reservation system — anyone hoping to immerse themselves in this silvery-white scenery should be sure to book ahead!

Image source: tripadvisor

2. Southeast Asian islands

Not a fan of the cold and don't want to go to Japan? Head to a Southeast Asian island getaway instead! DJB has rounded up 2 top island destinations in Southeast Asia, so you can enjoy a warm, relaxing spring break with ease.

(1) Bali

Bali, known as "the Island of the Gods," is a dream vacation spot for countless travelers. Beyond its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, it's also rich in local culture. Whether you're looking to relax or seek adventure, Bali has something for everyone.

Soak up the sun and enjoy spa treatments at a luxury resort, immersing yourself in tropical vibes for a truly leisurely holiday. And don't forget to experience local traditional dance and cuisine, making your spring break an unforgettable journey.

Image source: tripadvisor

(2) Boracay

Boracay, famous for its fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, is an ideal destination for vacation lovers. Lie on the beach and drift off to the sound of the waves, or join snorkeling and water sports to explore the magical world beneath this beautiful sea.

The island's atmosphere is relaxed and easygoing — whether you're chasing adventure or pure relaxation, Boracay delivers the warmest spring experience. Everything here makes you forget the winter chill and welcome the embrace of sunshine and sea.

Click here for more 👉🏽Comparing internet options for Boracay, Philippines: recommended SIM cards, pocket Wi-Fi, and carrier roaming

Image source: tripadvisor

2026 Chinese New Year travel FAQ

Q1: Are flights always more expensive during the holiday?

A: The first and last days of the holiday period tend to be pricier than other times — we recommend departing and returning a bit earlier to avoid the crowds, and you'll likely find cheaper flights too.

Q2: I really want to visit Europe or the US, but the holiday feels too short — what should I do?

A: Take an extra 4 days off using your personal leave right after the holiday, and you can link it up with 228, extending your break to 16 days — giving you plenty of time for a longer Europe or US trip!

Q3: Travelling with the whole family — does everyone need their own data SIM?

A: Not necessarily. Taking a Japan data SIM as an example — for older family members with lower data needs who might split off on their own, we recommend a limited-data Daijobu Travel card just to stay in touch; for kids who'll stay with the group but want to stream videos or play games during the trip, parents should consider an unlimited, no-throttle Daijobu Unlimited Plus card and share it with the kids, within the fair usage policy.

Further reading:
>> The complete travel packing checklist: items you can't bring on a plane, plus 3 tips to pack with ease
>> When is the best time to travel abroad? It varies by continent — pick the right season for the best trip
>> Comparing internet options for Boracay, Philippines: recommended SIM cards, pocket Wi-Fi, and carrier roaming