The Chinese festival that’s beautiful, delicious, and fun all packed into one day! Let me tell you about the Yuanxiao Festival, also known as the Chinese Lantern Festival. Imagine walking among dazzling red lanterns in the cool air, savoring hot black sesame-filled sweet glutinous rice balls, and laughing together while solving lantern riddles. This is the true charm of visiting China in early year you absolutely can’t miss it! If you’re looking for a trip to China that’s rich in culture and full of Instagram-worthy moments, this festival is a must-go! Plus, if you book your flights and hotel to China through Traveloka, it’s even easier on your wallet. Still haven’t planned your China trip? Check out the hottest deals and start packing because the Yuanxiao Festival only happens once a year! Ready? If so, let’s dive into the festival highlights we’ve gathered for you enjoy the lantern displays, taste the sweet rice balls, and have a blast with authentic Chinese activities!

Okay... if you’ve never heard the word “Yuanxiao” before, don’t worry! Today, we’re taking you on a journey to discover one of China’s most beautiful, warm, and meaningful festivals. The Yuanxiao Festival (元宵节), known worldwide as the Chinese Lantern Festival, falls on the first full moon night of the lunar calendar, which is the 15th day of the first lunar month right after Chinese New Year. Yuanxiao marks the official close of the Chinese New Year celebrations and is a beloved family reunion day that people eagerly look forward to every year. Simply put, if Chinese New Year is about new beginnings, then Yuanxiao is like turning on the lights to guide you through a bright and joyful year ahead.

If you’re planning to visit China early in the year and happen to be there during the Yuanxiao Festival, consider yourself super lucky! This is one of the biggest, warmest, and most colorful festivals of the year. Imagine walking through cities adorned with thousands of glowing red lanterns, surrounded by laughter, delicious aromas, and TOP things to do that perfectly blend ancient traditions with modern flair.

The main event in every city is the Lantern Festival itself. Whether you’re in Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, or Chengdu, the main streets transform into tunnels of vibrant lanterns. Some lanterns tower as high as three-story buildings; others creatively depict Chinese gods, mythical creatures, or even modern cartoon characters. From traditional bamboo lanterns to dazzling LED ones that change colors, you’ll be snapping photos every few minutes because the photo spots are endless and absolutely stunning. Your social media feed will thank you.

Another unmissable part of Yuanxiao is eating “Tangyuan” (汤圆), the traditional Chinese sweet glutinous rice balls. You might think it’s just a simple snack, but authentic Chinese Tangyuan is something specialthe dough is chewy yet soft, and the fillings are sweet, fragrant, and rich but never cloying. Popular fillings include finely ground black sesame, smooth red bean paste, or peanut with brown sugar. These rice balls are typically served in hot ginger syrup, warming you up in the chilly air and relaxing you with hints of Chinese herbs. One bowl is never enough, you’ll definitely want seconds! Eating Tangyuan during Yuanxiao symbolizes family reunion and harmony, bringing warmth and love all year long.

This timeless activity has preserved its charm for hundreds of years, the famous Chinese Lantern Riddles, known as “Cai Deng Mi” (猜灯谜). At the festival, riddles are written on slips of paper and hung beneath lanterns displayed throughout the event. Visitors read the riddles and try to guess the answers, which often involve clever wordplay with Chinese characters, idioms, or puns. Some riddles can be tricky, sparking lively discussions, while others are funny and lighthearted. This game invites everyone from kids to adults, even grandparents to join in the fun. Those who guess correctly may win small prizes like traditional sweets, Chinese fans, or even lucky draw tickets for bigger rewards at the festival. This interactive activity brings a unique and vibrant spirit to the Yuanxiao celebrations across China.

If you’re planning a trip to China and want to fully immerse yourself in the Yuanxiao Festival experience, don’t miss these top cities famous for their amazing Lantern Festival celebrations. Besides stunning lantern displays, each place offers a unique festive atmosphere throughout its neighborhoods.

Beijing during Yuanxiao is the real deal! The Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven are beautifully decorated with a mix of traditional and modern Chinese lanterns. You can even catch live traditional Chinese music performances here.

For those who love cutting-edge tech, Shanghai is a must-visit. The lanterns here feature 3D mapping technology that projects moving images onto giant lanterns, creating breathtaking views all over the city. Plus, the famous Nanjing Road pedestrian street hosts a grand and lively Lantern Festival event.

If you prefer a more ancient vibe, Xi’an won’t disappoint. The ancient city wall is transformed into a multi-kilometer-long lantern street with a truly nostalgic atmosphere, like stepping into a Chinese historical drama.

Chengdu’s theme is “gods and auspicious animals.” You’ll see gigantic dragon lanterns, phoenix wings, white tigers, and Chinese deities you know from movies all in one spectacular festival. Perfect for photography lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

For the most romantic setting, Hangzhou wins hands down. Lanterns hanging by West Lake reflect shimmering lights on the water’s surface, creating a dreamlike atmosphere perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting to relax and soak it all in.

Chinese lanterns aren’t just decorations, they symbolize hope, light, and good fortune passed down through generations for thousands of years.

The patterns on lanterns often feature auspicious symbols such as dragons, carp fish, plum blossoms, or Chinese characters meaning “luck,” “longevity,” or “family harmony.”

Traditional lanterns are made by bending bamboo into frames, covering them with rice paper, then hand-painting meaningful designs using natural pigments. This craftsmanship is a treasured cultural heritage of many Chinese regions.

One of the cutest, most delicious, and meaningful foods of Chinese festivals has got to be “Tangyuan,” or what we commonly call Chinese sweet rice balls. If you ever visit China during the Yuanxiao Festival, you’ll find Tangyuan vendors on nearly every street corner from small sidewalk stalls to fancy restaurants offering trendy fusion versions to delight every palate.

According to Chinese belief, the round shape of Tangyuan resembles the full moon (which perfectly coincides with the Lantern Festival night). This roundness symbolizes family reunion and endless love and harmony. Eating Tangyuan is also a way to wish for the safety, health, and lasting love of your loved ones a dish that fills both your stomach and your heart.

One of the activities that makes the Yuanxiao Festival more than just a lantern viewing event is the famous “Lantern Riddle guessing,” known in Chinese as “Cai Deng Mi” (猜灯谜). This game is fun, full of clever puzzles, and packed with knowledge.

Traditionally, solving lantern riddles tests your wit and serves as an entertaining way to share language, literature, wisdom, and humor. It’s a game that brings together people of all ages to enjoy and learn.

At the festival, riddles are hung on lanterns on slips of paper. Those who answer correctly might win small prizes or get praise from the organizers. It’s not just a casual guessing game, it’s a warm, brain-teasing tradition that brings joy and togetherness.

If you want to fully enjoy your trip to China during the Yuanxiao Festival, it’s great to have some handy Chinese words with you. This will help you communicate and understand what’s happening around you better perfect for exploring the festival or chatting with locals. You’ll definitely impress people!

Although visiting China during the Lantern Festival is super fun, poor preparation can make you tired or even lost especially since cities get crowded with festival-goers.

If you’re visiting China, especially during the Yuanxiao Festival, the year’s highlight, getting the right hotel is key to fully enjoying the experience. You want a place that’s easy to get around, close to top things to do, and just steps away from dazzling lantern displays so you won’t have to wake up at dawn! Here’s our handpicked list of great hotels perfect for travelers, chill seekers, and even vloggers. Expect luxury, value, and the full festive vibe.

Hotels in China ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Heading to Chengdu to catch the famous spectacular lanterns and traditional Chinese parades? This hotel is your best bet. Located in the heart of Chengdu, it’s close to ancient markets and modern-chic Lantern Festival venues. The hotel blends luxury with warmth and even offers authentic Chinese dining where you can savor original Tangyuan (sweet rice balls). Plus, it’s right near Chengdu’s iconic giant lantern landmarks. Just step outside and you’re greeted with glowing lanterns and the tempting aroma of fresh Tangyuan, pure magic.

Hotels in China ⭐⭐⭐⭐

For a sleek, modern city vibe, Shanghai is where it’s at, and Modena by Fraser is the place to stay. Situated near a convenient subway station, getting around is a breeze. The spacious rooms fit families or groups perfectly. Around the hotel, you’ll find trendy cafes, delicious eateries, and a lantern market buzzing late into the night during Yuanxiao. If you want to see cutting-edge 3D-mapped giant lanterns and then shop in luxury malls afterward, Modena’s your answer.

Hotels in China ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Want the full “strolling past palace walls under glowing lanterns” experience? Book the Grand Hyatt Beijing. This premium 5-star hotel is right next to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, prime spots for the massive Yuanxiao Festival celebrations in the capital. The best part? Some rooms offer real views of the lantern displays. It’s less than a 10-minute walk to lantern release sites and riddle booths. Enjoy a fancy dinner in a romantic setting, capture stunning photos, and soak up a luxurious yet cozy atmosphere. This stay will turn your China trip into a dream come true.

When people think of traveling to China, some may imagine language barriers, confusing streets, and big crowds. But don’t worry, it’s actually way easier than you might expect! Especially if your goal is to dive into the magic of the Yuanxiao Festival or Chinese Lantern Festival, we promise, it’s worth every step.

There are tons of direct flights from Thailand to popular Chinese destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Xi’an. Flight times are only around 3–5 hours closer than you might think!

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Traveling to China during the Lantern Festival isn’t nearly as complicated as many might think. Flights are easy to book, cities are well-connected, and public transportation is incredibly modern. What’s more? The locals are super welcoming especially during festive times when entire cities come alive with warm, vibrant energy. Think China is just about the Great Wall or ancient palaces? Think again. Yuanxiao Festival is when the country truly lights up literally and culturally! Streets are filled with glowing lanterns, music, art, and smiles that warm your heart in the cold winter air. So if you're craving beautiful photos, delicious food, and unforgettable memories, it's time to book that flight to China, book your cozy hotel, grab your camera, and witness the magic of Chinese lanterns with your own eyes. Let the adventure begin!