According to Klook, as the year draws to a close, travellers are wrapping up their year amid crisp air, snowfall, and festive lights. The year-end period signals peak time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in snow-blanketed destinations.
Where it’s cold to be: Klook users’ top 3 year-end hotspots
Japan
Japan continues to top travelers’ lists this winter, drawing visitors to its iconic onsen towns and enchanting snow festivals. From Hokkaido’s world-famous ice sculptures to Nagano’s powdery slopes, travelers are embracing the country’s mix of tradition and adventure. With hot springs, gourmet winter bites, and vibrant seasonal events, Japan offers a truly immersive winter escape.
And among Malaysian travelers, ski tours in Japan saw a 131% year-on-year increase in ski activity sessions!
South Korea
South Korea is a favorite for travelers seeking both excitement and comfort this season. Its world-class ski resorts, winter theme parks, and steaming Korean stews create the perfect blend of thrill and warmth. Beyond the cities, snow-capped temples, scenic islands, and national parks showcase the country’s serene winter beauty.
Switzerland
The quintessential winter destination known for its dramatic alpine landscapes and picturesque mountain towns. Travelers are drawn to its exceptional ski slopes, festive Christmas markets, and cozy chalets tucked amid snow-laden peaks. With each snowfall, Switzerland transforms into a timeless postcard of European winter elegance
Cool-er in the tropics
Klook adds that for Southeast Asian travellers who chose to stay within the region’s tropical warmth this year-end, it’s about finding cool-er ways to explore.
Klook data shows a growing interest in experiences that offer escape from the heat — from river cruises in Singapore and Thailand, to adventures in nature like waterfall day tours and canyoneering in Indonesia and the Philippines.
Night activities are also gaining popularity. From exploring historic palaces after dark — perfect for history lovers who prefer slow strolls in the cool evening air — to joining locally guided night tours or glamping under the stars, travelers are discovering new ways to experience destinations after sundown to beat the heat.
And for those dreaming of a true winter scene without leaving Southeast Asia, there is a place that offers just that — Sapa, Vietnam. This charming mountain town north of Hanoi is known for its terraced rice fields and peaceful atmosphere. It transforms between December and February into a mist-shrouded winter wonderland, occasionally blanketed in velvety snow. Definitely a rare sight in Southeast Asia.
Socially cool
Klook says that “Cool” isn’t just about the climate, but it can be about the vibe too. More Klook users are venturing beyond capital cities to uncover hip, authentic destinations that have yet to draw the crowds. These spots may be slightly off the beaten path, but they are still reachable by car, bus, train or a short flight.
And for travelers who make the extra effort, the reward is what we call the “socially cool” factor — the satisfaction of discovering a place before everyone else does.
Where it’s cool to be: Klook users’ top 3 year-end hotspots
Lijiang, China (+463% sessions year-on-year)
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Lijiang enchants with its cobblestoned Old Town, winding canals, and Naxi heritage. Snow-capped Jade Dragon Mountain forms a stunning backdrop, while nearby Shuhe Village and Lugu Lake offer serene escapes steeped in culture and nature.
Chiang Rai, Thailand (+241% sessions year-on-year)
Northern Thailand’s hidden gem, Chiang Rai captivates with its surreal temples — white, blue, and black — each a masterpiece of local artistry. Beyond the city, tea plantations and mountain views make it a serene yet culturally rich escape.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam (+95.8% sessions year-on-year)
Cradled in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s island gem known for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and laid-back tropical vibes. Beyond its picture-perfect shores, the island dazzles with lush rainforests, vibrant night markets, and a growing eco-luxury scene that keeps travelers coming back for more.
Cool in climate and culture: Mainland China
Few destinations capture cool — in both climate and culture — as fully as Mainland China. From the icy landscapes of Harbin to the creative enclaves of Shanghai, travellers are rediscovering China through a fresh lens shaped and shared on social media.
Klook says that the destination’s expanded visa-free policies and improved connectivity have made travel easier than ever. Local governments are investing in new attractions and infrastructure, while enhanced bilingual services and digital booking systems have made it smoother for international visitors to explore.
Klook is seeing this momentum, with rising sales of the China Rail Pass and growing demand for customized private tours. These flexible options allow travelers to craft itineraries with professional driver-guides, perfect for exploring Mainland China’s lesser-known cities and scenic escapes at their own pace.
