Chinese New Year Celebration is based on the start of the Lunar Year. As the year starts, there are a lot of activities Chinese practice to welcome the year with ,luck, fortune and prosperity.
Back in China, there were a lot of temple fairs and fireworks during Chinese New Year’s Eve. Scheduled huge fireworks were anticipated especially in the central area of Beijing. We had our own celebration in a traditional Chinese restaurant called Hua Jia Yu Yuan. It was a feast literally as we devour ala carte orders that was a set for Chinese New Year.

In Beijing, the streets are almost empty as a lot of people who came from different provinces went back to their home to celebrate this holiday. It was expensive to rent a van this time of year as they would not wait for you until the wee hours since the drivers will also celebrate with their families.

Back in the Philippines, we celebrated Chinese New Year but not so much as Christmas or New Year. We had our usual tikoy (sticky rice) and other round fruits for offering. We would usually spend the eve with our relatives and just eat and talk/gossip.
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During Chinese New Year, there is a tradition in China which celebrates by having temple fairs. Celebrated in temples around the city, people gather around to pray for luck, good fortune, health and all possible good tidings that one can ask. One of the temple we visited is Bai Yun which means White Cloud. It’s actually fun to see a lot of people burning incense and praying to Taoist saints. They also have a lot of activities like this one which I tried. You will need to buy gold plated huge coins to aim and throw on the big bell on the middle. It’s said that it will bring luck but I’m more into trying out cultural activities like this. And I hit the target! (not captured in the video though)

Here’s a peak of throwing coin activity…

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I’m excited! I heard that the news that they are planning to link the train form Singapore to Thailand to Kunming China! I’ve always wanted to see Kunming.

According to sites I’ve read, Kunming is famous for its breathtaking scenic natural landscape. You can try to visit the Stone Forest which is famous in this region. There are also a lot of temples and caves in the area you can visit.

Although it can be a waste of time to wait to get there, it’s rather an adventure to see the views along the way. Cities can look all the same but when you see the untouch beauty of nature along the way, you’ll be amazed with things you thought can be seen in movies only.

Well, problem is, when will that plan be finish??

Strait Times Article
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