‘World of Frozen’ is finally open at Hong Kong Disneyland! Visitors are now able to explore Arendelle, Elsa and Anna’s hometown. Even more exciting is the fact that it is the world’s first and only Frozen-themed attraction.

Inspired by the hit movies Frozen and Frozen 2, the attraction consists of Elsa’s Ice Palace and Arendelle Castle. With this new themed land, the Hong Kong theme park has the most castles among all Disney parks! What are you waiting for? It’s time to visit the Town Square and forest area that were seen in the Oscar-winning animated film.

World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland: What you need to know

There are two new rides in the area, one of which is a revamped version of the Frozen Ever After ride at Walt Disney Resort in Orlando. On this ride, visitors can visit Elsa’s Ice Palace during Summer Snow Day. The other is a family-friendly roller coaster, Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs, which takes riders through a scenic journey around the mountains. It is powered by Olaf and Sven!

Meanwhile, Playhouse in the Woods serves as Anna and Elsa’s childhood playhouse. Visitors can have a unique playing experience here in celebration of Summer Snow Day. Golden Crocus Inn is the go-to place for dining while Tick Tock Toys & Collectibles will be selling keepsakes and merchandise.

Tokyo DisneySea will open its own version next spring while Disneyland Paris will follow in 2025.

The park is now open for more days a week

Hong Kong Disneyland is now operating six days a week. Previously, it was only open for five days due to the pandemic. With this expanded opening and a new attraction, there is hope that more tourists and locals will visit.

This year, Walt Disney also celebrates its 100th anniversary as well as the Hong Kong park’s 18th year. As such, beloved characters from various Disney stores appeared in a series of events during the centenary festivities. The Walt Disney and Mickey House statue Dream Makers was recently unveiled on October 16.

This story first appeared here.

Related: The Best Times To Visit Disneyland For Fewer Crowds, Gorgeous Weather, And Lower Prices

With the festive season in full swing, India is decking up in lights, sparkles and divinity. The end of the nine-day Navratri celebrations and Dussehra makes way for the eagerly awaited Diwali, or Deepawali, which falls on November 12, 2023. 

The Hindu festival is celebrated by millions worldwide across a series of occasions, signifying good over evil, prosperity and the triumph of light over all our dark desires. 

Diwali, which derives its name from the Sanskrit word ‘Deepa,’ meaning clay lamps, and ‘āvali,’ meaning a row or continuous line, also goes by the names of Jain Diwali, Bandi Chhor Diwas, Tihar, Sowanti, Sohrai, Bandna and so on.

The festival occurs in the Hindu months of Ashwin and Kartik (coinciding with mid-October to mid-November of the Gregorian calendar). The celebrations, spanning five days, include Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali, Diwali (the main festival falls on the third day), Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj, each carrying its own significance. 

According to ancient texts, although Diwali started as a harvest festival, it has transcended to incorporate themes like removing spiritual darkness, embracing one’s inner light, the triumph of good over evil and ushering in prosperity and wisdom over centuries. 

Know more about the significance of Diwali, how it is celebrated and what does it mean

Diwali celebrations in different parts of India

Though Diwali is celebrated across the country, each region holds distinct connotations and rituals, all rooted in the rich mythology of ancient India. 

Northern India celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile, during which he defeated the demon king Ravana. People decorate their houses with lights, diyas (earthen lamps) and flowers, just the way the people of Ayodhya had welcomed their king, as described in the ancient texts. They worship Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity and Lord Ganesha for wisdom.

On the other hand, South India celebrates the Festival of Lights to commemorate Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. In the western part of the country, Diwali marks the day when Lord Vishnu sent the demon Bali as the king of the nether world, while Goddess Kali is worshipped in eastern states like Bengal.

Whatever the significance is, the threads of togetherness, cleaning the house to remove dark shadows and welcome the deity, buying traditional clothes, exchanging gifts and enjoying a time of fun and frolic unite everyone during Deepawali.

Diwali celebrations: Traditions, rituals and lores

Lighting lamps, making colourful rangolis (decorative designs made with ground rice and colours), arranging flowers on doors and windows, exchanging sweets and dressing up in bright traditional clothes are some of the essentials of celebrating Deepawali. Every Indian household starts prepping for the festival by sprucing up their abode and decorating it with lights and flowers. Many also opt for renovating their homes and buying new appliances and decor items.

The five-day festival starts with Dhanteras (November 10, 2023), where ‘dhan’ and ‘teras’ mean wealth and number 13, respectively. The occasion falls on the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha during the month of Ashwin in the Hindu calendar. It is considered auspicious to buy utensils, gold jewellery and home appliances on this day.

On Dhanteras, there is a custom of lighting up the house with 13 used diyas from the previous year’s celebrations. Each of these diyas has its own significance in Hindu tradition. For instance, the first one is lit in the southern corner on the outer side of the house to ward off death, while the second one is lit with ghee and kept at the altar inside the house. The third is placed at the goddess Lakshmi’s idol for prosperity and good fortune.

The day before Diwali 2023, the second day of the festivities, is fondly known as Choti Diwali (November 11, 2023) and serves as a grand rehearsal for the main event. Also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, it falls on the 14th day of the Hindu calendar month of Ashwin or Kartik. It marks the day Krishna defeated Narakasura (the lord of hell). Homes are decked up with rangoli, flowers and earthen lamps. Final touches are given to decorations, and last-minute errands are taken care of. 

In the eastern regions of the country, a custom similar to the lighting of 13 lamps on Dhanteras is part of the various rituals performed on Choti Diwali. Bengalis usually light 14 diyas on this day. Known as ‘chothyo prodeep‘, the diyas are lit to pay respects to ancestors, and a meal called ‘chothyo saag’ is prepared with 14 varieties of green leafy vegetables and is served with rice. 

Goddess Kali is the worshipped deity. Legend has it she was born to save the earth and heaven from the clutches of notorious demons. However, after defeating them, goddess Kali lost control over her fury and started a slaughtering spree, not sparing anything that came her way. Lord Shiva had to intervene and lay on her path. When the goddess stepped on him, her tongue came out in shame, and she finally calmed down.

Family members get together to prepare ‘bhog’ (food offered to deities) for the devi and later distribute it among the devotees.

With the arrival of Diwali (November 12, 2023), the festive spirit is at an all-time high as people adorn themselves in their finest attire. The homes come alive with decorative lights, welcoming the gods and goddesses. As the sun sets, deities Ganesha and Lakshmi are worshipped. 

Although some do burst crackers with their friends and family, many have become aware of their impact on the already depreciating air quality in India. Along with worsening air pollution, the loud noise caused by fireworks affects everyone, including animals. 

Some people also play cards and gamble as a mark of inviting wealth and good fortune, followed by a Diwali bash. And, how can there be any party without delicious food? Sweets, snacks, dry fruits and a whole lot of other delectable fare make the occasion scrumptious.

The fourth day is Govardhan Puja (November 14, 2023), or Annakut Puja or Balipratipada, which marks the victory of Lord Krishna over Lord Indra. Food items like wheat, rice, curry made of gram flour and leafy vegetables are prepared to offer Lord Krishna.

Customs on this day differ in various regions. In North India, people dedicate their mornings to worshipping the tools of work, businessmen worship their ledgers and artists express their gratitude towards their brushes and colour palettes.

The fifth and final day of Deepawali celebrations is celebrated as Bhai Dooj (15 November 2023). Also known as Bhau Beej, Bhai Tilak or Bhai Phonta, the day is much like Raksha Bandhan and sisters put a coloured dot (called tilak in Hindi) on their brother’s forehead as a mark of love and respect. They exchange gifts, and while brothers promise to protect their sisters, sisters pray for their well-being.

Deepawali and other religions

In the diverse Indian culture, Deepawali celebrations also have varied significance for different religions and faiths. For the Jain community, Diwali is the period of enlightenment of Mahavira, the Jain Tirthankara (leader), to attain moksha or liberation.

For the Sikh community, the festival period is the time of Guru Hargobind’s return to Amritsar from captivity in Gwalior. This 18th-century tale resonates with the spirit of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.

Deepawali may not be a significant occasion for the Buddhist community, but it marks the day when Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism in the third century BCE. Vajrayana Buddhists celebrate by lighting lamps and decorating monasteries. 

What do people wear on Diwali

The festival of lights is all about brightness and sparkle. People wear traditional clothes like ornate sarees, lehenga and choli, salwar suits and dresses. Traditional jewellery and flower garlands to adorn the hair are also part of the significance of Deepawali. Men, on the other hand, opt for kurtas and sherwani suits to usher in the festive joy. 

Deepawali delicacies 

Diwali is a time to gorge on mouth-watering snacks, seasonal dishes and loads of sweets. 

From savoury snacks like samosas (a triangular savoury pastry fried in oil, containing spiced vegetables, especially potato) and aloo tikki (fried potato patties) to farsan (Gujarati snack made of gram flour) and dhokla (Gujarati snack made of rice and split chickpeas), the Festival of Lights is also a festival for foodies. Daal (lentil curry), naan (an Indian bread), chole bhature (spicy chickpea curry with fried bread), nankhatai (flaky slated biscuit) and chai are some of the most awaited foods of the season. 

However, desserts undoubtedly steal the show.

People love to treat themselves with ladoos (fried and sweetened gram flour balls), gulab jamuns (flour balls deep fried and served in a sugar syrup flavoured with roses), jalebis (spiral-shaped sweets made of flour and sugar syrup) and barfis (milk-based fudgy blocks of sweets). Halwa (semolina boiled with milk, almonds, sugar, butter and cardamom) and kheer (rice pudding) are also relished by many.

This story first appeared here. 

(Hero image credit: Sash Sriganesh/ @sashwathi/ Unsplash; Feature image credit: Joshuva Daniel /@joshuvadaniel/ Unsplash)

Related: Is This the Most Luxurious Wellness Festival in Asia?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What is the significance of the Diwali festival? 
The festival of lights is a celebration of light over darkness, good over evil and represents wealth and prosperity. The Hindu festival represents the spiritual victory of all things dark, gloomy and evil and ushers in prosperity.

-What are the five days of Diwali? 
The five days of Diwali are Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Diwali, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj.

-Why is Diwali important to us?
Diwali is celebrated to pray for happiness, prosperity and fortune. People light lamps to eradicate darkness and evil spirits and usher in light and sparkle.

-What is the meaning of Diwali? 
Diwali or Deepawali is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘deepa’, meaning lamp and ‘avali’, meaning rows or series.

While many may assume that dollhouses are only made for children, these expensive dollhouses in their most original forms require high attention to detail and come at a staggering price.

Barbie houses are not what you will see here. The original dollhouses came into existence in the 1500s, used as representations of royal courts, palaces, and manors. They’re built and decorated with valuable materials and precise design. Far from being just toys for children, these most expensive dollhouses are representative pieces of wealth.

Some of the Most Expensive Dollhouses in the World

Japanese Dollhouse

Huguette Clark, daughter of an American senator and industrialist William A. Clark, commissioned craftsmen for this expensive dollhouse in the early 1900s. Among the valuable toys and dolls she owned; this special Japanese dollhouse had to gain permission from the Japanese government to use the imperial-building-grade cedar in this model.

Price: USD 80,000 (HKD 626,720)

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English Gothic House

Peter Riches, owner of a construction company, took 15 years to complete this Victorian-style mansion. After years of delicate building, piece by piece, the artwork was finally completed with 23 rooms, a servant quarter, a game room, a grand piano, a pool table, and a library room. The house was later sold to a Canadian dollhouse enthusiast.

Price: USD 82,000 (HKD 642,388)

Titania’s Palace

It is said that Sir Nevile Wilkinson designed Titania’s Palace for his daughter, Guendolen, who wanted to give fairies a home. The dollhouse is more like a palace, comprising 18 rooms and over 3,000 miniature works. It was bought by Legoland in Denmark in 1978 and is now placed at Egeskov Castle.

Price: USD 256,500 (HKD 20,09,422)

Chicago’s Fairy Castle

Chicago’s Fairy Castle is an iconic dollhouse that took seven years and over 700 craftsmen to complete. One of the participants was Walt Disney, who took part in painting the murals on the wall. Antique Chinese royal jade and quartz, as well as gold and diamond chandeliers, decorate the house. There are paintings of fairy tale scenes from Cinderella and Snow White & the Dwarfs all around. These days, Chicago’s Fairy Castle is on show at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

Price: USD 500,000 (HKD 39,17,002)

The Stettheimer Dollhouse

The Stettheimer Dollhouse was created by one of the Stettheimer sisters, Carrie, over the course of 25 years. The sisters were friends with some of the well-known artists in the Jazz Age, like Louis Bouché, Gaston Lachaise, and William Zorach, who contributed by adding small details to the house. It was a reflection of the Stettheimers’ fashionable apartment, now on show at the Museum of the City of New York.

Price: USD 1 Million (HKD 78,34,005)

The Astolat Dollhouse

The Astolat Dollhouse is considered by some as the most expensive dollhouse in the world. It was built by Elaine Diehl between 1974-1987, consisting of over 100,000 handcrafted pieces. The dollhouse has a very realistic look, given that the artist used a 1:1 scale. Inside, it is filled with gold chandeliers, oil paintings, a library, a wine cellar, a fireplace, and a lighting system to light up the whole house. The house is now owned by Dr Michael Freeman and his wife Lois, now on show at Nassau County Museum of Art in Long Island, New York.

Price: USD 1.1 Million (HKD 86,17,405) 

Queen Mary’s Dollhouse

Princess Marie Louise and Sir Edwin Lutyens gifted this dollhouse to Queen Mary for her dedication to World War I. It was a portrayal of what the aristocratic homes must have been like at that time. The details include copies from famous companies, like Coleman’s Mustard, Cadbury chocolates, a Cartier clock, Rolls-Royce cars, a bottle of Chateau Lafitte 1875, famous paintings, and more. The dollhouse is now on show at Windsor Castle in England.

Price: invaluable

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This story first appeared here.

[Hero and feature image credit: The Astolat Dollhouse]

Related: Pretty In Pink:15 Places Around The World To Live Out Your Real-Life Barbie Fantasy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What is Barbie Dreamhouse made of?
Cardboard

What is an original Barbie Dreamhouse worth?
Around USD 100-200 (HKD 783-1,566)

When were Barbie Dream Houses made?
In 1962

Which dollhouse is the most expensive?
Astolat Dollhouse Castle

The world’s largest celebration of beer, Bavarian culture, and brotherhood, Oktoberfest 2023 is rearing to trump all parties and show us how it’s really done. This German festival is headlined by local beer, Lederhosen (traditional leather breeches), Dirndl (customary Bavarian women’s dress), regional bites, and music! Every year, millions of people gather on the Oktoberfest grounds; merry-making rings true as they head to beer tents bedecked with benches, hop on exhilarating carnival rides, and cultivate friendships over Festbier (festival beer).

The OG Oktoberfest in Munich inspires several local celebrations across the globe, so much so that it’s become a household term for party-goers. So it’s likely that you’ve heard of a rendition of the Oktoberfest at your city’s biggest mall, but if you’re determined to taste the iconic carbohydrate-laden, upbeat commemoration at where it all began, we recommend you shift the gears to Munich.

If this is your first time attending the annual revelry, read on for all things Oktoberfest 2023 – dates, history, what to wear, things to eat, and everything in between.

What is Oktoberfest?

The largest and most magnificent folk festival in the world, Oktoberfest is a true celebration of the senses. Held annually in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, this cultural extravaganza pays homage to the Bavarian way of life. Have you ever noticed something unique about the festival’s spelling? In the German language, ‘October’ is spelled with a ‘K’. Therefore, in reverence to the festival’s origins, the original spelling, ‘Oktoberfest’, is preserved.

The colossal celebration features a flurry of indigenous beer options, the beats of ceremonial German music played by live bands, the Riflemen’s Procession, cultural performances, and carnival swings.

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Oktoberfest History

The origins of this German festival can be traced back to the 1800s. It all started with the royal wedding of King Ludwig I and Crown Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen on October 12, 1818. The citizens of Munich were invited to witness the royal festivities, which included horse races, drinks, and dance. The joyous celebrations sparked such enthusiasm that it evolved into an annual tradition for the residents, eventually becoming known as Oktoberfest. The wedding was held at Theresienwiese (Therese’s Meadow), which still serves as the festival’s venue today.

Oktoberfest menu — food & drink

When at Oktoberfest, make sure to sample the traditional fare that spans a slew of regional delicacies. Sausage salad (Wurstsalat), headcheese (Presssack), sweet dumplings, apple strudel (Apfelstrudel), fish rolls (Fischsemmel), and Bavarian meatloaf (Leberkas) should definitely be on your radar.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the diverse beer selection sourced from renowned Munich breweries like Paulaner and Augustiner (Munich’s oldest brewery). If beer isn’t your preference, don’t worry; Oktoberfest offers a multitude of alternative beverages, including wine, champagne, Radler (beer mixed with lemonade), gin, vodka, Jägermeister, non-alcoholic beer, coffee, and soft drinks, among others.

It’s worth noting that the beer barrels at Oktoberfest don’t contain just any ordinary beers; they hold specific brews produced in accordance with the Rheinheitsgebot, the German law that dictates the ingredients of beer. According to this mandate, these beers must be brewed within Munich’s city limits and must fall into the categories of Marzen or Festbier. The traditional dark amber Marzen (March beer) is known for its delicate notes of German hops, while Festbier is lighter in color and less sweet by comparison.

Things to explore at Oktoberfest

Penning down your checklist for Oktoberfest 2023? Make sure to include special events like the Costume and Hunters’ parade, iconic Bavarian concerts, witnessing the landlords of the beer tents make an entrance on horse-drawn carriages and the traditional gun salute that marks the culmination of the fest for the year. We also recommend attending the free Wiesn Landlords’ concert by the Lady Bavaria statue. Elevate the fun by hopping onto one of the many carnival rides like the Ferris wheel, Toboggan, Hau den Lukas and Teufelsrad (Devil’s Wheel). Additionally, the unofficial closing ceremony in the Hacker Pschorr tent is a sight to behold.

Oktoberfest — tickets & dates

In 2023, Munich will host the 188th Oktoberfest, which will run from September 16 to October 3. The festival will kickstart with the Parade of the landlords and breweries on day one, followed by the opening and tapping of the beer fest. On September 17, thousands of folklorists will parade through the city centre. Four days later, on September 21, the Ecumenical mass will take place in the Marstall festival tent. The fourth Sunday of the month, September 24, 2023, will feature the musical highlight of Oktoberfest, culminating in the grand finale on October 3.

Regrettably, Oktoberfest tickets cannot be purchased online; they must be obtained directly from the respective beer tents. Purchasing tickets from third-party vendors is illegal. However, there is a silver lining: if you plan to attend the festival in the morning or on a weekday, you won’t need a ticket at all. But if you wish to witness the opening and closing day ceremonies and revel into the early hours of the morning, having a ticket is essential.

Oktoberfest dress code

While there’s no hard and fast dress code, it’s recommended to don the traditional garb (or elements thereof) to savour the Oktoberfest experience to the fullest. Wondering how to add Bavarian elements to your attire? We recommend traditional dirndl dresses for women, lederhosen shorts for men or a classic Bavarian jacket. Additionally, ensure that your bag is as small as possible. Larger bags are not only inconvenient to carry but are also not permitted inside the beer tents.

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Main and Feature Image Credit: Brett Sayles/Pexels

Related: These Are The Must Have Travel Apps You Need Before Visiting A New Country

FAQs

When does Oktoberfest take place?
Oktoberfest is usually held between mid/late September to the first Sunday of October. The official duration of Oktoberfest 2023 is September 16 to October 3.

Where is Oktoberfest held?
It is held in Bavaria’s capital city, Munich, in Germany.

Is Oktoberfest all about beer, or are there other attractions?
There’s more to Oktoberfest than just beer. Other attractions include carnival rides, traditional German fare, and the Costume and Riflemen parade. One can also indulge in music, dance, and shared experiences that make Oktoberfest a global phenomenon.

What types of beer are served at Oktoberfest?
At Oktoberfest, you can savor traditional German beer that is brewed within Munich’s geographical boundaries and adheres to German laws governing its ingredients. Specifically, you’ll find Marzen and Festbier varieties on offer.

Is there a dress code for Oktoberfest?
While there isn’t a formal dress code for Oktoberfest, we recommend wearing traditional attire or incorporating some elements of it into your outfit. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the experience, mingle with the locals, and capture unique photos to cherish forever.

Is Oktoberfest family-friendly? Can I bring my children?
Yes, you can bring your kids as they’re allowed on the festival grounds where they can enjoy the carnival rides. Additionally, they are allowed inside the beer tents. However, it’s important to note that children under 6 years of age must exit the tents by 8 pm.

Are there any special events or parades during Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest takes great pride in hosting a variety of renowned parades and ceremonies, including the opening ceremony, the Costume and Hunters’ parade, Bavarian concerts, and the traditional gun salute, among others.

Are there non-alcoholic or alternative drink options available at Oktoberfest?
Yes, Oktoberfest offers a wide selection of non-alcoholic choices, including coffee, soft drinks, lemon soda, and non-alcoholic beer. It also offers alternative alcoholic beverages like wine, champagne, gin, vodka, Jäger, and more to choose from.

How do I get to Oktoberfest?
Once you’re in Munich, Germany, you can easily reach the Oktoberfest venue using public transportation options such as the U-bahn, S-bahn, bus, and tram. Additionally, the venue is conveniently located within a 10-15 minute walking distance from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof).

Is Oktoberfest safe for tourists?
Yes, it is safe for tourists. However, as with any major festival, attendees should be mindful of their surroundings and keep their belongings safe at the Oktoberfest celebrations.

Can I bring my food and drinks to Oktoberfest?
While it’s allowed to bring beverages to the festival ground, you cannot carry them to the tents or beer gardens. Additionally, carrying the beverages in glass bottles is not permitted.

Get away from it all in Kyoto’s most exclusive enclave, populated by nobles for over 1,000 years.

FOR DISCERNING GUESTS seeking a unique luxury experience — including immersion into Japan’s culture and architecture — Park Hyatt Kyoto delivers in one of the country’s most stunning locations. 

The luxury guesthouse, nestled high in Higashiyama Hills, fuses Kyoto’s cultural sophistication with Park Hyatt’s graceful brand of hospitality. Facing the famed Ninenzaka Slope, with its picturesque collection of heritage buildings clustered around Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Park Hyatt Kyoto affords incredible views of Yasaka Pagoda, Kyoto Tower and the city beyond from its prime position.

Higashiyama Hills, Kyoto’s most famous historic district, has long been a retreat for Japanese noble families, offering a forested hillside destination to reflect on life and live closer to nature. 

On the property, each facet of the architecture has been designed to harmoniously exist with the area’s historic homes and gardens — including those of Kyoyamato, a seventh-generation family-owned kaiseki restaurant that shares land with the hotel.

Home Away from Home

Park Hyatt Kyoto strives to ensure a perfect stay for every guest. With 70 rooms and nine suites inspired by the seasons and the senses, the hotel provides stillness and serenity while incorporating local craftsmanship and materials, including fragrant ash wood, original artwork and garden views.

Ringed by traditional regional landscaping, the hotel encourages visitors to be immersed in the feeling of local life, including providing opportunities to experience various Japanese cultural experiences to ride on Rickshaw, to wear Kimono and practice Zen meditation at nearby temples.

The Oasis Center, on the hotel’s third floor, offers a sophisticated range of wellness options to keep the good energy flowing, including a spa specialising in authentic therapies and traditional Japanese rituals using Kotoshina organic green tea products. The fitness centre delivers the latest Technogym equipment while the onsite bathhouse has saunas for men and women alongside hot and cold plunge pools.

The Art of Cuisine

Park Hyatt Kyoto features a range of four dining establishments serving exquisite cuisine that spans from East to West — always focusing on local and seasonal ingredients of the highest quality.

Michelin-starred Japanese kaiseki restaurant Kyoyamoto has served authentic, seasonally-inspired multi-course meals since 1877. In collaboration with Park Hyatt Kyoto, the restaurant launched a series of traditional dining and tea ceremony experiences exclusively for hotel guests. The restaurant’s carefully curated cuisine features one-of-a-kind dishes that make use of the freshest and highest-quality ingredients with options to add on additional experiences such as geisha dance performances.

KYOTO BISTRO offers casual street-side dining with an expansive menu of international and Japanese comfort foods. The Living Room is the place for sumptuous teas served beside an open fireplace. Kohaku is where craft cocktails and spirits are served with dramatic views of Yasaka Pagoda, creating the perfect atmosphere for intimate and refined moments.

Yasaka’s New Chef de Cuisine

The hotel’s signature restaurant, Yasaka, known for its unique blend of teppanyaki cuisines and French, has welcomed Kentaro Koyama as the new Chef de Cuisine. In September, Chef Koyama will unveil an exciting new menu.

Chef Koyama began his culinary career as a chef at a French restaurant in Tokyo in 2008, and he honed his skills at various restaurants across France, including the renowned Michelin three-star establishment “Maison Lameloise” in Burgundy. Upon his return to Japan, he achieved a 3 Toques rating from Gault et Millau 2022 as a chef at a French restaurant in Tokyo.

Whether you visit Park Hyatt Kyoto for the stunning views, incredible cuisine or inviting and contemplative atmosphere, each stay guarantees to delight while immersing guests in the authentic heart of Japan’s ancient capital. 

Article Sponsored by Park Hyatt Kyoto.
Images courtesy of Park Hyatt Kyoto.

Hongkongers love festivals and holidays. This city observes everything from Easter to the Buddha’s Birthday. The Ghost Festival, or as it’s more popularly known, the Hungry Ghost Festival, is a Taoist and Buddhist festival. It traditionally falls on the 15th (or 14th in some places) night of the seventh month in Chinese calendars. The whole month is regarded as ghostly when spirits are believed to come out from the underworlds and realms beyond. Curious to know more? Keep reading as we explain the origins of the Hungry Ghost Festival in Hong Kong, including the superstitions and supernatural stories associated with it.

The Hungry Ghost Festival shouldn’t be confused with the Ching Ming Festival or Tomb Sweeping Day in April. Also, don’t mix it up with the Double Ninth or Cheung Yeung Festival in autumn. Despite being a famous festival in Hong Kong, the day of the Hungry Ghost Festival is not a public holiday. It’s still observed with food offerings, incense and joss paper burning, opera performances, and other festivities.

Origins of the Hungry Ghost Festival

There are a few origin stories for the Ghost Festival. The Yulanpen Sutra, an ancient Indian Buddhist account, recounts how Maudgalyayana (one of the Buddha’s closest disciples) found his deceased mother in the Hungry Ghost (preta) realm. A vegetarian, his mother had accidentally consumed soup made with meat. So, she ended up being sentenced to hell.

Maudgalyayana sought help from the Buddha, who advised him to offer food on the preta’s behalf to the monastic community. This act would allow former pretas to be reborn and released from suffering.

In Taoism, the festival serves as a judgment day for ghosts. Falling on Lord Qingxu’s birthday (the earth’s celestial official), the deity is believed to gather all spirits together and sift through their records. Then, they decide who will be forgiven and who will be punished.

Superstitions observed during Hungry Ghost Festival

The Hungry Ghost Festival falls during the full moon and the beginning of the new season. It is thought that the gates of both heaven and hell open up, leaving spirits free to roam our world.

Some are lost souls including ancestors of the living who weren’t given an adequate burial or send-off, were treated badly when alive or were simply forgotten after death. To appease the restless souls, believers stick to these practices.

• Making food offerings to keep the spirits well-fed 
• Burning joss paper
• Keeping all clothes inside the house at night. Clothes hanging outside are bound to be borrowed by spirits who may leave behind negative energy
• Make sure to close your doors and windows
• Keeping the lights on 
• Visiting a Chinese opera performance but making sure to not sit in an empty seat reserved for the dead
• Avoiding swimming as the spirit of a vengeful person who drowned may pull them under
• Avoiding the last round of transport at night
• Refraining from wearing a lot of black or red coloured clothing as it attracts spirits
• Keeping photo taking to the minimum
• Avoiding events such as moving into a new home, getting married, or starting a new business on the day

Supernatural stories in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has plenty of chilling tales for Halloween and the Hungry Ghost Festival month. Believers choose to stay away from these spooky spots during this time, but many also indulge in some ghost-hunting as the gates of the underworld open.

Bride’s Pool

This stream pool and waterfall spot in the New Territories is popular for its picturesque hike. Legends say that a bride was being carried to her wedding in a sedan chair by porters when one slipped on the rocks above the waterfall causing her to fall into the pool below. Tragically, her heavy wedding wear weighed her down and she drowned. Her spirit (often spotted dressed in the red cheongsam) lurks in the waters, waiting to drown unsuspecting visitors. So, be careful on Bride’s Pool Road as it’s known for tricky bends, blind spots, and the many accidents that have taken place on it.

Seven Sisters (Tsat Tsz Mui)

This neighbourhood east of North Point was formerly home to a Hakka village and beach. Its name comes from an urban legend, Tsat Tsz Mui, which means “seven sisters” in Cantonese. According to the story, seven girls once pledged to be sisters for eternity and vowed never to get married. They even tied their hair into buns to mark themselves as spinsters.

But their families had other plans, betrothing the third sister. Refusing to break her vow, she makes a plan to kill herself. When the other sisters learn of her intentions, they join her. So, they all jumped into the sea the day before the wedding together. As the myth goes, the bodies were never found, but seven boulders appeared the next day along the coastline. Villagers believed they were the seven girls, so the area was renamed Tsat Tsz Mui.

In 1911, a swimming shed was built in the area. But many believe it remains haunted, with frequent tales of men drowning. The former coastline was extended to the one we know today, and the village was gradually replaced with public housing estates and buildings.

Single Braid Road   

The Chinese University of Hong Kong is home to more than one supernatural story. The most well-known is the legend of the braided ghost girl. There are many versions of the tale, but its victims remain the same—male university students.

Legend has it that a beautiful girl was eloping with her lover from the mainland to Hong Kong. Some versions say the couple had an argument; others say they were fearful of being stopped by immigration officers at Kowloon. So, they decided to leap from the carriage to avoid being caught. But whatever the reasoning, the girl jumped alone from her carriage as the train went past the university campus. Her hair blew in the wind and a single braid was caught in the door of the train, ripping her hair and skin. Now, her faceless ghost roams the campus, haunting male students.

Murray House

This Victorian-era building stands in Stanley now, but it was originally built in 1846 in Central. Before being painstakingly relocated, Murray House literally had a murky history to exorcise. The building was first an officer’s quarter, then occupied by the Japanese and used as a command centre in the Second World War. Finally, it became an office building, and the government employees believed ghosts haunted the house. It was the detention centre and execution area for some Chinese citizens in the war, after all. The building was exorcised twice.

On May 19, 1963, about 90 Buddhist monks pacified the spirits in a 10-hour ritual complete with tablet burning. The building was exorcised once more in 1974 in a televised ceremony. Today there are few reports of ghosts, but you never know…

This story first appeared here. 

All image credit: Cheryl Chan/Flickr

Related:  From Island Trips To Museum Tours: 10 Things To Do In Hong Kong That Are Absolutely Free

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Hungry Ghost Festival a public holiday in Hong Kong?

– Hungry Ghost Festival is not a public holiday in Hong Kong.

What is the purpose of the Hungry Ghost Festival?

– The Hungry Ghost Festival commemorates the legend of Mu Lian and his loyalty to his mother. This is also where the practice of making offerings and praying to deceased ancestors is believed to have come from.

KAWS: HOLIDAY has found its next vacation spot, making noise in Indonesia with a monumental bright pink ACCOMPLICE character placed at Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple of ancient Java.

Having appeared in cities including Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, Tokyo, Bristol, Melbourne and Singapore, Indonesia marks the tenth stop on its world tour. The project, led by AllRightsReserved with support from AKG Entertainment, sees KAWS’ bunny-eared ACCOMPLICE figure appearing in stark contrast to the natural surroundings and Hindu architecture for a thought-provoking pairing.

The Prambanan Temple Compounds consist of 240 structures built during the height of the Sailendra dynasty in the 8th century AD. Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991, the Prambanan continues to be used as an important religious centre for Hindu rituals and ceremonies to this day.

Limited-edition pieces in collaboration with ARR will be available via the DDT Store. Offerings include lanterns, tees, towels, vinyl figures and cups featuring KAWS’ ACCOMPLICE character. The exhibition itself will be held from August 19, 2023, to August 31, 2023. Take a closer look at the KAWS: HOLIDAY INDONESIA activations below.

KAWS: HOLIDAY INDONESIA
Location: Prambanan Temple Park Complex, Jl.,
Raya Solo – Yogyakarta No.16, Kranggan,
Bokoharjo, Kec. Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman,
Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55571, Indonesia

Who is KAWS?

KAWS, an alias for Brian Donnelly, is an American artist famous for his art toys that have been creating a buzz in the contemporary art world for years. Starting out as a graffiti artist, he ventured into vinyl figures in 1999 with his first toy COMPANION, which became an instant hit. The concept of KAWS came into existence in his teenage years when he created the KAWS tag (with letters that looked aesthetically pleasing together) and marked buildings and phone booths in Manhattan and New Jersey with it.

With references to pop culture and internet trends, KAWS’ artwork (including figures, merchandise and giant inflatable sculptures) serves as a take on global issues swathed in his statement, individualistic style and artistic flair. Marked with the English alphabet ‘X’ on the eyes and hands, the vinyl collectables are one of the most recognisable artworks of recent times.

Moreover, by leveraging social media, appropriating popular characters (The Simpsons, The Smurfs, Sesame Street characters and SpongeBob Square Pants) and collaborating with some of the biggest pop culture artists and brands, KAWS has managed to establish itself today as a million-dollar brand.

This story first appeared here.

(Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy KAWS/Instagram)

Related: Bali’s Eco-Friendly Desa Potato Head Offers A Heavenly Escape To The Island Of The Gods

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– How did KAWS start his career?

KAWS started his career as a graffiti artist, later stepping into the creation of toys and collectables. He has also previously worked as a freelance animator with Disney and painted backgrounds for series such as 101 Dalmatians, Daria and Doug.

– What is COMPANION in KAWS’ artwork?

COMPANION is the first of the figurative toys by KAWS. It was created in 1999 and was produced in an edition of 500 which sold out immediately. It is characterised by the shape that’s reminiscent of Mickey Mouse with X-ed-out eyes and exaggerated proportions and features.

– Can I purchase KAWS artwork or merchandise?

Yes, you can purchase these figures and merchandise. Some of the most authentic platforms to shop include StockX, DDT Store by AllRightsReserved and Kawsfigures.

– Has KAWS collaborated with other artists or brands?

Yes, KAWS has collaborated with multiple pop culture artists and streetwear labels such as A Bathing Ape (BAPE), Pharrell Williams, Travis Scott, Nike, Supreme, Dior, J-Hope (BTS) and Bearbrick.

– What are KAWS toys and collectables?

KAWS toys and collectibles are art toys (vinyl figurines) created by the American artist KAWS whose actual name is Brian Donnelly. These toys are produced in limited quantities and are often sold at a higher value in the resale market and are also auctioned off at exorbitant prices. They account for being one of the most popular collector items among toy connoisseurs.

(Prices of the products mentioned in the story are subject to change.)

Bangkok’s International Festival of Music and Dance is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023, and taking the opportunity to have audiences seeing stars and opening their waterworks. If you’re considering booking a cultural trip to Thailand, here’s why September and October are good bets.

FROM THE TOP-RANKED VIOLINST in the United States and the world’s greatest living conductor to six of the best female illusionists on Earth and the all-woman cast that makes up a traditional Chinese opera company, Bangkok’s International Festival of Music and Dance is has something for everyone this year. The longest-running international cultural festival in Thailand is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023, with opera, ballet, classical music, musical theater, flamenco and even breakdancing and magic. We’ve got all the details.

Bangkok’s International Festival of Music and Dance got the party started in June with its first performance. Switzerland’s oldest orchestra, the Lucerne Symphony opened with Beethoven’s Violin Concerto and Symphony No. 5, with soloist Augustin Hadelich, a Grammy-Award-winner who plays an astonishig 300-year-old violin named ‘Leduc, ex Szeryng.’

Now, from September 2 through October 22, the hits will keep coming fast and furiously.

How many conductors do you know have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame? Megastar Zubin Metha has been considered the best conductor alive for generations, and he appears in Bangkok with the Symphony Orchestra of Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, of which he spent decades as Principal Conductor and is now Honorary Director for life, in a performance supported by the Embassy of Italy and Officina di Santa Maria Novella.

Composed by Giuseppe Verdi in 1870. Aida is a tragic love story between an enslaved Ethiopian princess and an Egyptian commander, but while the narrative is set in the ancient era of the Pharaohs, this show by Helikon Opera is an aesthetically rich multimedia innovation with thoroughly modern style. 

Granada Flamenco Ballet is set to tap their way into our hearts with two riveting shows that feature live singers and musicians, both supported by the Embassy of Spain. Carmen, Georges Bizet’s sultry, thrilling story of love and jealousy – gosh, aren’t all the best ones? – in a spellbinding new interpretation. Then, Dance for Me journeys through the Andalusian performing arts, themselves rooted in a fascinating mix of gypsy, Moorish and Spanish creative traditions, and leans heavily on the flash of improvisation.

Over to France, where Cie Accrorap has us excited for their effervescent hip hop performance, The Roots. is not just the foremost representative of French hip-hop and contemporary dance, it is a movement, a revolution, an evolution! Energetic, innovative and exciting, the group led by barrier-breaking dance pioneer Kader Attou will entrance you with The Roots, an 11-man acrobatic celebration encompassing unbelievable dance moves and astounding visual arts. 

An homage to the power of platonic male friendships and collaborations, this show created by dance pioneer Kader Attou and supported by the Embassy of France is set to astound with breakdance, locking, popping, and sometimes gravity-defying moves borrowed from skating, burlesque movies, tap dance, boxing, and even miming. 

At a silver jubilee, it’s only fitting that a dance company born of royalty would perform the world’s most famous ballet, Swan Lake. Les Ballets de Monte Carlo was founded in 1985 in accordance with the wishes of Princess Grace of Monaco, is headed by Caroline, Princess of Hanover, her eldest child with Prince Rainier III, and is its national ballet theatre.

Keeping the tragic love stories coming, musical theatre enthusiasts will be psyched to know that Bangkok is one of the first cities in the world where the Jets and the Sharks will face off over the fate of star-crossed Tony and Maria in a show directed by Emmy Award-winner Lonny Prince. West Side Story features an all-American cast dancing the original choreography by Jerome Robbins, under the guidance of Julio Monge, an artistic consultant on Steven Speilberg’s film version.

Dating back to 1609, the Stuttgart Ballet is one of the top 10 ballet companies in the world and has received the Laurence Olivier Award in the UK for achievement in dance. So, who better to take us on a grand tour of a dozen of the most enchanting ballet pieces ever choreographed? Look out for dances from Romeo and Juliet and Don Quixote in this hit list of a show supported by the Embassy of Germany, GTCC and Thai-German Cultural Foundation.

How’s this for girl power? Six of the top female illusionists and magicians in the world will perform together for the first time ever, in the first magic show choreographed in Bangkok by the president of the International Magicians Society, from New York, prepped in just 10 days, and broadcast from Thailand on American TV with the support ot ICONSIAM. We suggest not blinking.

We also suggest another round of applause for the ladies, because the next show also shows off their star wattage. Flipping the conventions of traditional theatre, in which for centuries women were considered too delicate for the stage, Shanghai Yue Opera arrives with its all-female cast to show off one of the two most famous genres of Chinese opera, with the support of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. The truth-seeking, love-losing fable Dream of the Red Chamber has us crying already.

Don’t put away the tissues yet, because the Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance and Music is planning for its dramatic conclusion Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina set to Tchaikovsky’s score. Globally beloved, multi-award-winning Boris Eifman is bringing his eponymous ballet company to perform this classic fatal love story of literature and philosophy in Bangkok, elevating the Thailand Cultural Centre to the level of other major stages of the United States and Europe. 

Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance and Music 2023 line-up, at the Thailand Cultural Centre:

Zubin Mehta And Symphony Orchestra of Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Saturday 2 September 2023 at 7:00pm

Aida by Helikon Opera, Saturday 9 September 2023 at 7:00pm

Carmen by Granada Flamenco Ballet, Friday 15 September 2023 at 7:00pm

Dance for Me by Granada Flamenco Ballet, Saturday 16 September 2023, 7:00pm

The Roots by Cie Accrorap, Saturday 23 September 2023 at 7:00pm

Lac – Swan Lake by Les Ballets de Monte Carlo, Saturday 30 September 2023 at 7:00pm and Sunday 1 October 2023 at 2:30pm

West Side Story, Thursday 5 October 2023 at 7:00pm, Friday 6 October 2023 at 7:00pm, Saturday 7 October 2023 at 2:30 & 7:00pm, and Sunday 8 October 2023 at 2:30 & 7:00pm 

Gala Performance by Stuttgart Ballet, Thursday 12 October 2023 at 7:00pm

The Magnificent Six Top Female Illusionists, Saturday 14 October 2023 at 7:00pm

Dream of the Red Chamber by Shanghai Yue Opera, Tuesday and Wednesday 17 and 18 October 2023 at 7:00pm

Anna Karenina by Eifman Ballet, Saturday 21 October 2023 at 7:00pm and Sunday 22 October 2023 at 4:00pm

Tickets to Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance and Music 2023 available via www.thaiticketmajor.com.

Images courtesy of Bangkok’s International Festival of Music and Dance.

The biggest present for any Potterhead has to be a trip to Hogwarts on the famous Hogwarts Express. Growing up, that was a core fantasy we all had. Since platform 9 ¾ doesn’t exist IRL, the next best thing to settle for is Harry Potter items, collector’s edition. As some of them got to live their dreams, we look at the most expensive Harry Potter items ever sold at an auction.

As JK Rowling’s famous Harry Potter books were brought to life over the years with the Harry Potter film franchise, the fandom continued to grow in leaps and bounds. Today, it is one of the most loved and sought-after franchises in the entire world. So, it is not surprising that Harry Potter items are sold and bought for small fortunes around the world. We have listed the most expensive ones, because we at Lifestyle Asia, love the stories behind expensive things.

Most expensive Harry Potter items ever sold

Tales Of Beedle the Bard

One of my favourite Harry Potter trivia is that the most expensive Harry Potter book is not even a part of the original series. Featured in The Deathly Hallows as a story-within-a-story, this book is leather-bound and embellished with silver. But that’s not what contributed to its whopping selling price. This book containing five fairy tales was inscribed and illustrated by J.K. Rowling and has only seven copies. It was sold for nearly USD 4 million (HKD 31,251,640) at Sotheby’s auction in 2007.

The first edition of Philosopher’s Stone

The second most expensive Harry Potter item ever sold is the first edition of Philosopher’s Stone. This rare edition in mint condition fetched USD 471,000 (HKD 36,79,880), the highest amount ever for a piece of fiction in the 20th century. The auction happened in Texas in December 2021 and was bought by a mystery buyer. What makes this edition even more special is that the first edition had printed only 500 copies worldwide, out of which 300 copies were sent to libraries. This copy was one of the remaining 200.

J.K Rowling’s chair

No, this chair wasn’t a part of the books or the movies, but this chair has a different commemorative value. This is the one that Rowling sat on during writing the first two books. This chair belongs to the set of vintage dining room chairs that Rowling got in 1995. When the chair was sold, it came with a note from Rowling herself, which mentioned that she chose it because it was the comfiest of the lot. It was initially auctioned in 2002 at a charity auction for USD 21,000 (HKD 164,071) until it was auctioned again in 2013 by Sotheby’s, where it sold for USD 228,000 (HKD 1,781,343).

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Original Philosopher’s Stone cover illustration

The cover illustration of Philosopher’s Stone is just as iconic as the first edition of the book. The franchise had acquired cult status by 2001, which is when the cover illustration was bought by a private American collector of antiques for USD 110, 297.22 (HKD 861,740). The illustration was done by artist Thomas Taylor using watercolour. Interestingly, this was the only illustration done by Taylor for the Harry Potter franchise.

Harry Potter’s glasses

 

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If you thought only the books sought that kind of price at auctions, wait till you read about the Harry Potter items used in movies. The round, black, wire-framed glasses became synonymous with Harry Potter, as Daniel Radcliffe immortalised them. This legendary wardrobe piece in the films was sold for USD 20,000 (HKD 156,258) in the US in 2015. This was one of the many glasses that were used over the years for the films.

Sirius Black’s grey linen overcoat

An indispensable character in Harry Potter, Sirius Black’s graph was something that no one saw coming. Harry’s godfather, played by Gary Oldman, did not appear in all the movies, but he had a profound impact on Harry’s life. Throughout the movie, Sirius was seen wearing a grey linen overcoat with a suede collar and wooden buttons. This coat sold for USD 17,000 (HKD 132,819) at Bonhams in 2007.

Harry Potter’s Hogwarts acceptance letter

A part of Harry’s unforgettable Hogwarts experience was the owl delivering the Hogwarts acceptance letters at the doorstep of his Dursley home. While we saw the Dursley house being flooded with many envelopes from Hogwarts, one of them made it to a London auction. The priceless letter was sold for about USD 6,000 (HKD 46,877). This letter had the original wax seal on when it was sold.

This story first appeared here.

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy harrypotterny/Instagram

Related: Visit These Harry Potter Movie Locations On Your Next Trip To The UK!

There can be no denying that after a rough patch attributed to global Covid-19 restrictions keeping live entertainment in the back-burner, concerts have returned to full swing, as evidenced by the concerts in Southeast Asia that have been held since 2022.

In Malaysia alone, we’ve seen some of the biggest global entertainment names such as South Korean mega-group BLACKPINK and American alt-pop sensation Billie Eilish filling out stadiums once more, with others announcing their imminent arrivals on local shores in the coming months.

Be that as it may, the fact stands that Malaysia isn’t always going to wind up on the tour schedule for our favourite singers or bands. In this case, the best alternative is to look beyond our borders and check out the concerts that are taking place across Southeast Asia! From pop to R&B, here are some of the biggest concerts in Southeast Asia happening in the second half of 2023.

Concerts in Southeast Asia happening in the second half of 2023

NMIXX Nice to MIXX You Tour 

Debuting in February of last year under SQU4D, a sub-label of entertainment conglomerate JYP Entertainment, South Korean girl group NMIXX’s splash on the K-Pop landscape has since led to sizeable ripples across Asia, winning them a considerable legion of fans.

 

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This is courtesy of their genre-blending approach to music, which they have dubbed as ‘Mixxx Pop’, combining two distinct genres into a single, addictive composition. And with the success of their debut EP, Expérgo, being certified platinum thrice by the Korea Music Content Association, it’s safe to say that they’re off to a good start.

1. Bangkok (June 4) 
2. Jakarta (June 9) 
3. Singapore (June 23) 
4. Manila (June 30)

Buy your tickets here.

Agust D aka Suga D-Day World Tour

To those unfamiliar with Agust D, you may perhaps know him by his alternate stage name of Suga. Yes, the very same Suga from the South Korean mega-boy band BTS. While he has seen unparalleled commercial popularity as a member of the group, Min Yoon-gi has enjoyed a considerably successful career by releasing music as a solo artist, granting him a greater sense of creative autonomy over his output.

 

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After a series of projects under his solo alias, he eventually released his first debut album as Agust D in April of this year, entitled D-Day, to the tune of over 1 million units sold on its first day.

1. Bangkok (June 9, 10 & 11) 
2. Singapore (June 16, 17 & 18)

Buy your tickets here.

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RINI Past the Naked Eye 2023 Asia Tour

Australian-born Filipino singer-songwriter RINI is part of a new generation of R&B conduits that work on a velveteen bedrock of sensual, leisurely sound. Rising to prominence among intrepid listeners with notable tracks including My Favourite Clothes and Meet Me In Amsterdam, he was further catapulted into wider recognition with the release of his debut five-track EP, After The Sun.

1. Singapore (June 17)
2. Manila (July 19)

Buy your tickets here.

Bruno Mars 2023 Tour

Retro showman Bruno Mars is easily one of the most memorable names to have emerged from the 2010s, what with the sheer range of genres that he has introduced to considerable commercial popularity. Standing at over 130 million albums sold, Bruno also bears the enviable distinction of being one of the best-selling musical acts of all time.

 

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His most recent output was released in collaboration with American rapper Anderson. Paak under their Silk Sonic collaboration in 2021, which saw the release of the Grammy-winning single, Leave The Door Open. 

1. Bulacan (June 24 & 25)

Buy your tickets here.

The Boyz Generation Tour 

Although the 11-member boy band The Boyz has been a fixture in the South Korean music scene since their initial debut back in 2017, it wouldn’t be until 2021 that they gained wider commercial appeal through their fifth EP, Chase, and it’s lead single, The Stealer. This would be followed by two full-length albums, entitled Reveal and Breaking Dawn respectively, which granted them further exposure after their runner-up win on the Kingdom: Legendary War reality show.

1. Manila (July 15) 
2. Singapore (July 20) 
3. Jakarta (July 29) 
4. Bangkok (August 5 & 6) 

Buy your tickets here.

Sabrina Carpenter emails I can’t send Tour

Expertly weaving between both worlds of the screen and the stage, 24-year-old Sabrina Carpenter already holds a considerable list of credits to her name.

 

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With a career that was jump-started from her participation in The Next Miley Cyrus Project hosted by none other than Miley Cyrus herself, she went on to feature as a recurring character in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and a clutch of Netflix-backed projects. Music-wise, her debut 2022 album Emails I Can’t Send spawned two wildly popular singles, Because I Liked a Boy and Nonsense.

1. Quezon City (July 25) 
2. Singapore (July 27)

Buy your tickets here.

dhruv Live in Asia

You’ll be surprised to know that London-born Dhruv, otherwise known as Dhruv Sharma, has strong ties to the Southeast Asian region. For one, his family moved to Singapore when he was just two, where he would spend most of his time in, before eventually moving Stateside to pursue an education at Yale University.

 

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But as the fates would have it, his 2019 single, double take, gained viral traction online, charting a position in the top 5s in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. In 2022, he released his first full-length album entitled Rapunzel.

1. Singapore (July 27) 

Buy your tickets here.

Twice Ready to Be World Tour 

A stalwart name in the K-pop circuit, girl group Twice has gone from strength to strength after making their formal debut with their 2015 EP, The Story Begins, featuring their now signature bubblegum pop sound.

 

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Named the next ‘Nation’s Girl Group’, their popularity quickly transcended beyond the Asian market and into America, becoming the very first South Korean female act to top the Billboard World Albums and World Digital Song Charts simultaneously. Most recently, the group released their 12th EP, Ready to Be, in March of this year.

1. Singapore (September 2) 
2. Bangkok (September 23) 
3. Bulacan (September 30) 

Buy your tickets here.

Kodaline LIVE IN BANGKOK

One of the most recognisable musical exports to hail from Ireland, Kodaline first made its initial debut into music under the name 21 Demands. While experiencing some amount of traction for their music within Ireland, the band would only see a much wider fanbase for their work after making the decision to change their sound and consequently, name.

 

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They are most often remembered for the distinctively lilting chords and introspective themes of their 2013 single, All I Want.

1. Bangkok (Sept 16)

Buy your tickets here.

Sam Smith GLORIA the tour 

As an artist, Sam Smith has embarked upon an evolutionary journey that has defied both expectations and genres. Debuting on the international stage as the soulful vocalist behind Naughty Boy’s 2013 hit, La La La, he would go on to pivot into one of contemporary music’s most recognisable names after the release of his debut album, In The Lonely Hour.

 

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Since then, he has won five Grammy awards and performed the title track for the 2015 James Bond flick Spectre, in addition to dropping three other studio albums. His latest output, Gloria, has been especially controversial upon the release of its lead single, Unholy, with Kim Petras.

1. Bangkok (October 3) 
2. Pasay (October 21) 

Buy your tickets here.

This story first appeared here.

Feature and hero image credits: @samsmith/Instagram, @brunomars/Instagram

Related: Lollapalooza To Knotfest: Have A Blast At These Unmissable Music Festivals In 2023