【 Where to Travel in December? 】 6 Best Winter Destinations in Asia｜Exclusive Winter Scenery & Activities 

As autumn fades and winter gently sets in, it’s the perfect time to plan a magical winter vacation. Whether you’re drawn to skiing, hot springs, or seasonal winter treats, this guide features six top winter destinations in Asia, perfect for December travel — combining local culture, exclusive winter events, and the best snowy experiences. Book great-value flights with HK Express and experience more this winter! 

Best Places to Visit in December #1｜Hiroshima

Each winter, Miyajima in Hiroshima, Japan, welcomes its peak oyster season. Across the island, restaurants and markets serve up a tempting array of oyster dishes — from charcoal-grilled and deep-fried to hearty oyster hotpots — all brimming with rich, ocean-fresh flavour. During the Winter Delicacy Festival, visitors can indulge in these seasonal seafood feasts while soaking in the island’s stunning seaside views — the perfect way to savour winter in Japan.

Recommended Hiroshima Winter Activities:

• Miyajima Oyster Festival: Taste Hiroshima oysters prepared in various ways at affordable prices and soak in the festival atmosphere.
• Oyster Boat Experience: Savor freshly caught and grilled oysters while cruising in the bay.

Hiroshima Weather in December: Cold and dry, with average temperatures around 3°C to 10°C 

Best Places to Visit in December #3｜Guiyang

December marks the start of the winter season! If the popular ski destinations in Japan and Korea feel a little too crowded, why not head to the ski resorts around Guiyang in China instead? With excellent facilities, great value, and beginner-friendly ski lessons, these resorts are perfect for families and friends to enjoy a fun and relaxing winter getaway together.

Guiyang Weather in December: Cool and pleasant, with average temperatures between 5°C and 15°C 

Best Places to Visit in December #4｜Busan

Every December, Gyeongju National Healing Park, located near Busan, offers a one-of-a-kind frozen river canoeing experience, a highlight of winter in Korea. Glide across the icy lake and take in the serene, majestic beauty of the winter landscape — a soothing retreat for both body and mind. The park also features peaceful forest trails and tranquil hot spring facilities, making it the perfect place to unwind and recharge this winter.

Busan Weather in December: Cool and pleasant, with average temperatures between 0°C and 10°C 

Best Places to Visit in December #5｜Sendai

In December, the Zao Onsen area in Sendai transforms into a stunning winter destination in Japan, famous for its “snow monsters” — a natural spectacle where trees are blanketed in snow and frost, forming fantastical shapes that resemble mythical creatures in a dreamlike frozen forest. From January to February, the Zao Snow Monster Light-up adds a magical glow to the landscape, creating an even more enchanting atmosphere. After taking in this rare sight, unwind in the soothing hot springs and watch the snow fall — the perfect way to experience the serene beauty and romance of winter in Japan.

Sendai Weather in December: Cold and snowy, with average temperatures between -5°C and 5°C 

Best Places to Visit in December #6｜Beijing

While winter in Beijing, China can be quite chilly, it brings one of nature’s most breathtaking winter sights — the Huyu Icefall — to life. Located in the Huyu Natural Scenic Area in Changping District, about an hour’s drive from the city centre, this spot is often called the “Little Iceland of Beijing.” It features seven magnificent icefalls and an ice activity zone, where crystal-clear ice walls form a dazzling scene straight out of a Nordic fairy tale. Perfect for families and photography lovers alike, it’s a must-visit winter destination.

Beyond the icefalls, Beijing’s outskirts boast ski resorts such as Nanshan and Huabei International, offering advanced slopes and night-skiing experiences — perfect for snow lovers who seeking a thrilling winter vacation in China.

Beijing Recommended Winter Attractions:

• Huyu Natural Scenic Area (虎峪自然風景區): View the Huyu Icefall and explore the ice activity zone.
• Nanshan Ski Resort (南山滑雪場): Features diverse ski slopes (beginner, intermediate, advanced, teaching, moguls/bumps, and snow play areas, etc.).
• Huabei International Ski Resort (華北國際滑雪場): Surrounded by mountains and the Great Wall, combined with ancient city culture, creating a unique landscape.

Beijing Weather in December: Cold and dry, with average temperatures between -6°C and 3°C