Extremely tempting evil charm  Expert: The New Year’s holiday coincides with Tokyo department store sales...

▲ Universal Studios Japan will launch special New Year’s events during the holiday period. (Photo / Reporter Yu Ruru)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Taipei

According to the latest government announcement, there will be a four-day holiday for New Year’s 2015 (January 1 to 4, 2015, with make-up work and school on December 27, 2014), so how to plan a holiday trip or an overseas New Year’s celebration has become a hot travel topic for many people.

▲ In addition to department stores, shopping streets like Tokyo’s Takeshita Street are also great spots for shopping and strolling. (Photo / MIKA’s Foodie Adventure Log)

Jiang Peilun, deputy general manager of Shan Fu Travel Agency, said thatJapanandSouth Koreaare popular destinations for many travelers’ New Year’s celebrations. Even before the holiday schedule was announced, Tokyo, Osaka, and the Tohoku region had already seen nearly 80% of their inventory sold. In Japan for New Year’s, besides attending countdown parties, travelers can also enjoy celebratory events at Universal Studios Osaka and Tokyo Disneyland, or join the crowds visiting temples for prayers.

Japanese travel expert Xiao Qian also noted that independent travelers looking for good deals can prioritize visiting major cities like Tokyo and Osaka in Japan.Because starting January 2, department stores such as 0101, Isetan, and Mitsukoshi will begin their discount sales, and with the current depreciation of the yen, it’s a prime time for shopping.

▲ Every year, Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour is a globally watched focal point for New Year’s celebrations. (Photo / Provided by the Hong Kong Tourism Board)

Influenced by the recent Occupy Central protests, many hotels and attractions in Hong Kong have launched promotional offers, which is a big advantage for consumers. According to operators in the Hong Kong tourism industry, every yearHong Kong’sNew Year’s fireworks are a globally watched highlight, and travelers can take advantage of this holiday period and promotional opportunities to experience Hong Kong’s New Year’s atmosphere.

Sui Guizhen, deputy general manager of Ximei Travel Agency, mentioned that Southeast Asia New Year’s itineraries have achieved 50% sales since they went on sale in mid-September, with the most popular still beingBali,Boracay,and other island resorts. Additionally,Thailandis also a popular travel destination.