Philippine Airlines is expecting 86% pre-pandemic passenger capacity this December– which means more people are growing confident in traveling, but are the risks still high?
If you want to avoid the holiday crowd, you can check out these Asian winter destinations that are still snow-blanketed in early February:
Niseko, Japan
There’s still snow in Niseko in early February although the snow might feel sticky because it’s slowly melting. Within Hokkaido Island is a small town called Niseko which is close to the capital city of Sapporo. Revered for its powdery snow, Niseko is a popular hotspot for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Outside of skiing, weary travelers can relax at an onsen, explore the small town of Niseko including its farmer’s market and cuisine, or go on a day trip to Sapporo.
Seoul, South Korea
You might not see snow everywhere but you can expect to see some snowfall in February. For winter sports activities like skiing and snowboarding, you can visit the local ski resorts like Yongpong Resort and High1 Resort. Don’t forget to visit Lotte World Ice Rink if you have children with you!
For sightseeing, the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the nearby Deoksugung Palace are the best places to see majestic architecture covered in snow.
Harbin, China
Harbin is also known for its grand Ice and Snow Festival which takes place in January and February. The city is also notable for its Russian-influenced architecture, food, and clothing. Take a trip to the Harbin Polarland, an indoor theme park, or visit the Harbin Siberian Tiger Park where you can spot the nominal tigers and other animals.
Srinagar, India
Srinagar is the perfect destination for nature nomads. You can engage in extreme winter sports in Gulmarg Ski Resort, or take a houseboat tour on the Dal Lake to view the floating gardens.
Take a houseboat tour on the Dal Lake to see the floating gardens and the many houseboats that are home to local residents.
Stroll through the majestic Mughal Gardens built by the Mughal emperors in the 16th and 17th centuries. If you’re dying for some local cuisine or souvenirs, go to the Lal Chowk market or the Nehru Park market.
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrygzstan is home to the Tien Shan mountain range, which receives heavy snowfall during the winter months even in February. Most of Kyrygzstan’s winter tourist spots are not for the faint of heart– travelers will be surrounded by nature as they are rural. However, you can find ski slopes at Karakol Ski Base and Chunkurchak Ski Resort. Kyrgyzstan has a unique and delicious cuisine, with dishes such as beshbarmak (boiled noodles with meat) and kuurdak (stewed meat with potatoes) being popular.
