Asia is predominantly Hindu, Buddhist, or Muslim, faiths that technically do not celebrate Christmas. The Christmas festivities are rooted, rather, in the Christian or Roman Catholic religion, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.
Christian and Roman Catholic communities in Asia are concentrated in countries like the Philippines and Georgia, the Philippines having been colonized by Spain, a Catholic nation, for over 300 years. If places in the Middle East, the birthplace of Christianity, won’t be considered as part of Asia, a huge percentage of the religion would have been constricted to this country alone.
However, Asia remains among the most trendiest destinations around the globe, enticing tourists to see attractions like the Great Wall of China, the magnificent temples in Thailand, or the Mongolian steppes. Exploring these places need travelers to get their dose of retail therapy, or shopping. To cater to global tourism, shops in Asia conduct Christmas sales even if the stall owners are not believers of Christmas. Here are the best and most beautiful Christmas markets you shouldn’t miss in Asia.
What Are Christmas Markets?
As their name implies, Christmas markets are festive and vibrant shopping events, held either indoors or outdoors during the holiday season, typically starting around November and ending early in January of the next year.
These shops offer handcrafted goods, souvenirs, traditional foods, holiday-themed decorations, and more. Historically, it has been said that such a format of a market originated in Europe, in Germany and Austria, particularly. There, wooden stalls adorned with glistening lights create a cozy, enchanting, and magical atmosphere, inviting shoppers to check out their products.
Visitors are offered seasonal treats such as roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and gingerbread while shopping for gifts, ornaments, and local crafts, and while Christmas tunes are playing in the background. Shopping has been part of every holiday tradition that captures the Christmas spirit.
The Most Beautiful 2024 Christmas Markets In Asia
Christmas markets in Asia are held almost yearly, but each year, shops make sure to offer something new for you. Plan your trip to these Asian Christmas shopping destinations:
Lotte Christmas Market At Jasmil World Mall, South Korea
After visiting temples and maybe enjoying Seoul’s food, give yourself the Christmas retail therapy you need at Jamsil World Mall, which sounds like Arabic, but actually a Korean shopping complex in Songpa, also known as the Lotte World Mall.
The mall welcomes global visitors every holiday season by transforming into a European-style Christmas village with a gigantic Christmas tree, charming Christmas decorations, and various festive activities. Stalls offer gifts, holiday treats, and so much more. Whether you want to shop renowned luxury brands or local brands, they’ve got it all for you.
Tokyo Christmas Market, Japan
Japan is one of the hottest Christmas destinations in Asia as winters here can get vividly magical. Apart from taking winter photos with Mount Fuji, indulging in warm ramen, and enjoying the onsen experience, it’s also worth your time to head to Christmas markets all over Tokyo. The most popular is the Tokyo Christmas Market in Meiji Jingu Gaien.
As usual, you’ll be treated to dazzling lights, decorations, live performances, and traditional Christmas treats as you stroll around. This is one of the most extravagant Christmas shops in Asia, if not in the world. The shops are not out of your way as it is very accessible, just a five-minute walk from Gaienmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza line.
Furthermore, since this shopping event is sponsored by Germany’s official tourism board and the German embassy, there’s a 14-meter Christmas tree imported all the way from Germany as the centerpiece. You will have to buy admission tickets, though, to be able to get in and start shopping.
Christmas Wonderland, Singapore
You know how Christmas shopping can get really expensive in Singapore, being one of the most luxurious destinations in the world. But, those who like a good bargain must head to Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay.
Christmas Wonderland is Singapore’s most illustrious holiday event that features a European-style market selling gourmet food and artsy crafts with the background of light displays and festive decorations.
This shopping event has a dedicated official website which shows how it is a Universal Studios in itself. There’s a map previewing what you can experience here. Beyond shopping, there’s also the Blizzard Time, Santa’s Village, carnival games and rides, festive dining, and listening to Christmas carols. The event is brought to you by cheap flights and hotel reservation website, Trip.com.
Greenhills Christmas Night Market, Philippines
Being the country with the most number of Christians in Asia, Christmas shopping here is a big event. There’s not just one, not two, but several places here that conduct holiday shopping festivities. In Metro Manila, you can catch sales at SM Supermalls or Ayala Malls. If you want a bargain-y experience, climb up to Baguio City that illuminates every Christmas or simply, brave the crowds in Divisoria.
However, the most endearing shopping destination here is probably the Greenhills Christmas Night Market, a holiday staple at the Greenhills Shopping Center. Stalls here will offer clothing, toys, accessories, home décor, and even food that you can give as presents, too, for your loved ones and friends. As the country that celebrates the longest Christmas, why shouldn’t you shop in the Philippines?
Hong Kong Winterfest, Hong Kong
Last, but certainly not the least is the Hong Kong Winterfest. This Chinese city welcomes tourists from all races, so it is just apt for them to offer something big for Christmas. This beautiful Christmas market happens at the Central Harbourfront that looks average the rest of the year but transforms the city into a festive wonderland every holiday season. According to the official website of the Hong Kong tourism board, Winterfest is actually a stunning array of holiday experiences that include fireworks shows, a Christmas town, and more. Just be sure to prepare for the crowd.
Why Visit Christmas Markets In Asia
Christmas markets in Asia offer a unique mix of vibrant traditions and local culture. Whether you’re looking for unique Christmas decorations or tasty street food, these markets will create a magical holiday experience for you.
Overall, the Christmas spirit in Asia can compete with those in the homes of Christmas in Europe and the Americas. After all, for Filipinos who wish to fly abroad for the holidays, you won’t readily have a visa to visit Europe or Latin America, right? Those Asian Christmas markets will surely make your holidays incredibly unforgettable.