While Chinese New Year is the big kahuna of Asian calendar celebrations, December 31 can certainly hold its own against most. Whether you’re planning to be in Asia at the time, or looking for a unique way to spend New Year’s Eve and early 2012, there’s plenty to party about right across the region.  

Emperor’s New Year, Japan

Start the new year in Japanese spiritual style at the hatsumode—the first visit of the new year to a shrine or temple. The festive atmosphere and array of food stand options will keep you warm, plus you can buy lucky charms for the year ahead.

If you happen to hit the Sake too hard, you’ve still got until January 2 to recover for a rare Emperor appearance at the Tokyo Imperial Palace where the inner grounds are open to the public.

The well located Hotel Villa Fontaine Shiodome offer complimentary breakfast.

See more great Tokyo hotel deals.

Private partying in Jakarta

In the mood for something a little more intimate? Try the Fire Ice New Year’s Eve party at the Grandkemang Hotel Jakarta. The hotel is hosting a fine dining experience with live DJs, fire dancers and face artists.

On January 1, wake up to New Year’s Day brunch and then gather with ex-pats for a Hogmanay in the hotel’s Scottish pub.

See more great Jakarta hotel deals.

Euro-elegance in Shanghai

On New Year’s Eve, China’s latest work-of-art design, the Shanghai Oriental Art Centre, hosts a concert by the Vienna Johann Strauss Waltz Orchestra. Attending one of their performances is as close life gets to the elegance, romance and grandeur of 19th-century Viennese ballrooms.

The Bund Riverside Hotel offers its own blend of East meets West, with top class chefs whipping up ‘French style Tebanyaki’.

See more great Shanghai hotel deals.

Oodles of options in Hong Kong

There’s plenty to do in Hong Kong on December 31 when the whole city turns into a family carnival, including a Times Square-like countdown experience. Locals also recommend food and drink cruises on Victoria Harbour, where you’ll get a dragon’s eye view of the spectacular light, sound and fireworks show.

Or, you could do far worse than spending your entire evening at L’hotel Causeway Bay Harbour View Hong Kong. Most of the apartments offer unobstructed views of the harbour and skyline.

See more great Hong Kong hotel deals.