The Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year, is one of the most colorful celebrations, observed by millions of people worldwide. In 2025, it will be the Year of the Wood Snake and will begin on January 29.
Although the celebration of the Chinese New Year in Bali is not as grand as in major Indonesian cities like Jakarta or Surabaya, where there are large Chinese communities, you can still find places where Lunar New Year traditions come to life. Buddhist temples, restaurants, and hotels are adorned for the occasion, and some venues host shows and themed dinners.
The Chinese New Year has been an official public holiday in Indonesia for around 23 years.
Where to celebrate Chinese New Year in Bali?
Celebrations often begin with visits to Buddhist temples, where prayers, blessings, and other traditional rituals take place.
Satya Dharma Temple, Benoa
The temple near Benoa Port becomes a captivating sight during the Chinese New Year. It is adorned with red lanterns, money trees, and other symbolic decorations.
Brahma Vihara Arama (Brahma Vijara Arama, Singaraja)
The only Buddhist monastery in Bali, located in Banjar Village near Lovina. Its main attraction is a miniature replica of the famous Borobudur. The temple combines Thai and Balinese elements and is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere. Its an ideal place for meditation or visiting on holy days when monk processions take place.
Vihara Dharma Giri (Vihara Dharma Giri, Tabanan)
This temple is known for its impressive architecture and grand ceremonies. Its serene atmosphere is perfect for prayers and immersing yourself in the spirit of the celebration.
Wihara Dharmayana (Wihara Dharmayana, Kuta)
Hidden from the bustling streets of Kuta, this temple, founded in 1876, is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the area. It features stunning Chinese architecture with red columns, dragon sculptures, and large lanterns. Its tranquil setting, complete with a turtle pond, offers a peaceful escape from the cities chaos.
Vihara Buddha Dharma (Vihara Buddha Dharma, Seminyak)
Built in 2007, this temple has become an important center for Buddhists in Seminyak. It harmoniously combines traditional and modern architecture, creating an atmosphere of calm and comfort. Visit during the day to see traditional decorations and observe prayer rituals.
Make sure to dress modestly to respect the temples traditions and enjoy the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere of the Chinese New Year celebration.
Where to Eat?
Bali offers numerous restaurants where you can enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine with your family. Look out for classic dishes such as Peking duck, “Yee Sang†prosperity salad, crispy pork belly, Kung Pao chicken, chocolate and hazelnut mooncakes, sticky rice cakes, sweet and sour seafood soup, and much more!
Kuta
Palms Restaurant, Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali
The Palms Restaurant at Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali will host a dinner in celebration of the Lunar New Year on January 28, 2025. The menu features Cantonese dishes, including glazed meats, and a Hot Pot format with a selection of fresh ingredients.
At 6:30 PM, there will be a traditional Yu Sheng ceremony, where guests can participate in a symbolic ritual and enjoy a Barongsai lion dance performance.
Price: Starting from 250,000 IDR per person (including taxes).
Date: January 28, 2025.
Time: From 6:00 PM
Golden Lotus Restaurant, Bali Dynasty Resort
The Golden Lotus Restaurant invites you to celebrate the Year of the Snake with a festive dinner and a Barongsai lion dance show. Guests will enjoy a signature 9-course menu accompanied by an exciting entertainment program.
Dinner Menu:
Sichuan-style hot and sour soup
Crispy fried duck
Saigon-style beef or pork ribs
Steamed garoupa fish Teochew-style
Prawns
Broccoli with garlic and mushroom sauce
Fried rice with chicken and prawns
Mango pudding for dessert
Price: 488,000 IDR ++ per adult
Date: January 28, 2025
Azul Beach Club
Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake at Azul Beach Club. This oceanfront beach club invites you to a special event, Seafood by the Sea, where you can enjoy Chinese cuisine and vibrant cultural performances.
Unlimited Chinese seafood buffet
Barongsai (lion dance) show to bring good fortune for the New Year
Live music
Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2025
Time: From 6:30 PM till late
Location: Azul Beach Club
Price: 375,000 IDR++ per adult
50% discount for children aged 5 to 12
Seminyak
Kilo Seminyak
Kilo Seminyak invites you to celebrate the Chinese New Year with a refined dim sum dinner! Enjoy a special 9-course set menu that promises luck and delight in every bite.
Menu:
Prawn Pot Sticker with creamy sake sauce
Xiao Long Bao (pork dumplings with laksa soup)
Cha Siu Bao (BBQ rib-filled buns)
Crispy Eggplant (eggplant in Shanghai sauce)
Duck & Pomelo Spring Rolls (with hoisin sauce)
Firecracker Salmon (salmon with crispy wontons and sweet chili)
Fried Black Rice (black rice with squid and caviar)
Stir-Fried Broccoli (with Chinkiang vinegar)
Mandarin Orange Cake with blueberry sauce
Dates: January 28 and 29, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: IDR 388,000++ per person
Location: Kilo Kitchen Seminyak
Happy Chappy Chinese
Join the joyful Chinese New Year celebration at Happy Chappy Chinese! Enjoy a thrilling Barongsai lion dance performance and savor authentic Chinese cuisine.
The special thing about this restaurant is that you dont have to wait for a New Years menu they serve real Chinese dishes all year round! Every dish is steeped in tradition and flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Canggu
Iwa Restaurant, Hotel Tugu Bali
Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake at the historic Kwan Si Temple, built in 1706. Enjoy a delightful 8-course family-style dinner, with each dish symbolizing prosperity, harmony, and wisdom in honor of the Chinese New Year.
Price: IDR 588,000++ per person (minimum 2 people)
Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2025 - 7:30 PM
Location: HOTEL TUGU BALI
Wonton Club Bali
Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake in the cozy ambiance of Wonton Club, located in Berawa. Known for its authentic homemade Chinese noodles, dumplings, and an impressive selection of craft gins, Wonton Club invites you to a two-day festive buffet to mark the Chinese New Year.
A lovingly crafted menu based on traditional family recipes includes:
Braised assortment: Chicken wings, eggs, lotus root, bamboo tofu
Peanut salad
Shanghai-style eggplant
Chicken (Braised with tofu or fried in yellow sauce)
Pork (Saigon-style fried or sweet-and-sour ribs)
Fish soup with pickled vegetables
Prawns with vermicelli in a clay pot
Broccoli with almond mushrooms
Fried cauliflower with vinegar sauce
Pumpkin with salted egg sauce
Spicy Chinese-style potatoes
Tea bok choy stir-fried with garlic
Dont miss the chance to enjoy this festive dinner paired with authentic Chinese teas and artisanal drinks.
Dates: January 28 and 29, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: 288,000 IDR++ per person (minimum 2 people)
Location: Wonton Club
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Bukit
Kwee Zeen, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua
Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort invites you to celebrate the Chinese New Year 2025 with unforgettable experiences designed for the whole family. From an exquisite dinner to childrens entertainment and relaxing spa treatments, theres something for everyone.
Traditional New Year Dinner
Celebrate the Year of the Snake with an elegant dinner at Kwee Zeen. Enjoy a spectacular Barongsai lion dance and other cultural performances, along with specially curated Chinese dishes.
Dates: January 28 and 29, 2025
Time: From 6:00 PM
Price: IDR 499,000++ per person
Kids Club: New Year Fun for Children
Let your kids immerse themselves in the festive spirit! The Kids Club will host special activities, including face painting, crafts, games, and treats, to make their day unforgettable.
Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM 4:00 PM
Price: IDR 200,000 (for children aged 3 and above, advance booking required)
Chinese New Year Relaxation
Indulge in a two-hour massage at Sofitel SPA Gazebo to relax and rejuvenate amidst the beautiful gardens of Sofitel.
Terms: Minimum session length of 90 minutes
Dates: January 26,31, 2025
WhatsApp: +62 811 3830 5954
Website: sofitelbalinusadua.com
Lion X Restaurant, Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort
Chef Alex Kuan invites you to indulge in vibrant flavors and exquisite dishes specially prepared for the Year of the Snake. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable culinary journey with a lunch or dinner in an atmospheric setting.
Dates: January 28 and 29, 2025
Times:
Lunch: 12:00 PM 3:00 PM
Dinner: 6:00 PM 10:30 PM
Additionally, every Sunday, Lion X offers a special Dragon Brunch, a perfect way to brighten your weekend with homemade dim sum and other delicacies.
When: Every Sunday
Time: 12:00 PM 3:00 PM
Price: Starting from IDR 488,000 per person
Location: Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort
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AYANA Estate
AYANA Resort offers a variety of activities to welcome the Year of the Snake in a vibrant and unforgettable way. Choose from relaxing spa treatments, unique culinary experiences, and exciting shows.
Spa Treatments:
Rejuvenating Indonesian therapies (January 6 - 31, 10:00 AM 7:00 PM).
Exquisite Afternoon Tea: Themed tea at Damar Terrace and Unique Rooftop Bar (January 20 February 9, 2:00 PM 5:00 PM).
Special Events:
Spirit of the Snake at Rock Bar: Fireworks, lion dance, and live music (January 28, 4:00 PM1:00 AM).
Cultural Performances at Kampoeng Bali: Kecak dance, Barong and Dragon performances, and a traditional dinner (January 29, 6:00 PM 10:00 PM).
For Kids:
Kids Club Activities: Painting, mask-making, and treasure hunts (January 29, 9:00 AM 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM 5:00 PM).
At the Restaurant:
Hot Pot at Ah Yat Abalone: A luxurious family dinner (January 28, 29, starting from IDR 2,288,000++ for 2 people).
Cantonese Lunch: Traditional dishes with lion dance and live music (January 27, 29).
Location: AYANA Resort Bali
Segaran Dining Terrace, Jumeirah Bali
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Jumeirah Bali, where elegance meets unforgettable culinary delights. Chef Alessio Nallino has prepared a sophisticated menu blending traditions and premium seafood, including Canadian oysters and a Yee Sang ritual to bring luck for the New Year.
Event Details:
January 28, 2025 | Dinner: 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Special buffet menu: IDR 1,250,000++ per person
January 29, 2025 | Dinner: 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Seafood set menu: IDR 2,500,000++ for two
Location: Segaran Dining Terrace
Public Celebrations
Jalan Gajah Mada (Denpasar): This street transforms into a lively zone with parades, music, and red lanterns.
Lapangan Puputan Badung (Denpasar): The central square becomes the epicenter of fairs, cultural performances, and street food.
Shopping Malls in Bali: Leading up to the Chinese New Year, malls offer major discounts, festive events, lion dances, colorful decorations, and special promotions perfect for shopping and soaking in the festive atmosphere!
