Starting the year with a bang of the drums, these Asian festivals know how to start 2017 in the right way. As these countries showcase their living traditions and culture, it seems like there is no more important month for travelers to discover the individuality of a nation than in January.
Bikaner Camel Festival, India. In honor of the desert animal, the Camel Festival is held to as gratitude to the camels for their service in an Indian's life. There will be camel dances, races, camel rides, and games. Cultural performances and parades will also be a delight where the animals are dressed in colorful textiles and donned on accessories for people to see. Enjoy some camel milk teas and sweet treats! The event will happen on January 14 to 15.
Ati-Atihan Festival and Dinagyang Festival, Philippines. Ati-Atihan is the country's most prominent festival for locals, tourists and religious followers of the Sto. Niño. There will be tribal dances against the rhythmic beats of drums. While Ati-Atihan is the mother of all festivals in the Philippines, its 'daughter' Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City has gained worldwide fame and acclamation. Catch the two festivals on January 9 to 15 for Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Aklan and January 20 to 22 for Dinagyang in Iloilo City. It'll take three hours away from the two destinations.
Yamayaki, Japan. Find your spot in Nara City and get a magnificent view of Mt. Wakakusayama. This annual festival in Japan gets to burn the entire hill out of the historical disputes happened centuries ago. Apart from the sacred fire, 200 fireworks will light up the sky as well. The festivity will start in noon with competitions held for the public. Enjoy the spectacle on January 28.
Harbin Ice Festival & Chinese New Year, China. The ice wonderland of Harbin brings travelers to walk around against life-size ice buildings, sculptures and colored ice lanterns in the annual snow and ice festival. Ranging over a month, revel in the art expo up to the celebration of the Chinese New Year. Go snow tubing, sledding or feeding the animals during the wintery holiday. The festivity will start on January 5 and concludes on February 5.
Thaipusam, Murugan Festival, Malaysia. This religious holiday sees an influx of 10,000 tourists each year, and we know why. Be captivated with how the locals show their devotions to their lord and god through their penance. And by that, we meant some of them pierce their skin and cheeks with metal skewers. Tourists are also granted to follow the devotees to go up to the caves where they get to see the locals praying for forgiveness.
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