St Patrick’s Day is not only a big deal in Ireland, but also in many parts of Asia, where millions of people join in the festivities every year. Whether you’re looking for a parade, a party, or a cultural experience, there’s a place for you to enjoy this Irish holiday in Asia. Here are some of the best places to celebrate St Paddy’s Day in Asia, and what some of the locals and visitors have to say about them.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is the place to be if you want to witness the oldest, largest, and most extravagant St Patrick’s Day parade in Asia. Since 1992, the Irish Network Japan has been organizing this annual event, which attracts thousands of participants and spectators. The parade features people dressed in green costumes and accessories, marching along the Omotesando Avenue, one of the most fashionable streets in Tokyo. The parade is followed by a lively festival with Irish music, dance, food, and drinks. Even the Tokyo Tower, the iconic landmark of the city, is illuminated green for the occasion.

“I visited Tokyo for the St Patrick’s Day festival last year, and it was amazing. The parade was so colorful and fun, and the festival was like a big party. I met so many friendly people, both Japanese and Irish, and we had a great time together. I felt like I was in Ireland, but with a twist of Japan.” – Sandra Roman, a tourist from New Jersey, USA.

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul also hosts a popular St Patrick’s Day parade and festival, organized by the Irish Association of Korea. The parade takes place in the Insadong neighborhood, a cultural and artistic hub of the city, where foreigners and locals gather to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. The parade features colorful floats, bands, dancers, and performers, as well as a costume contest and a lucky draw. The festival offers Irish food and drinks, live music, games, and activities for all ages.

“I live in Seoul, and I always look forward to the St Patrick’s Day parade and festival. It’s a great way to learn about and appreciate the Irish culture, and also to have fun with my friends and family. The parade is very lively and entertaining, and the festival is very cozy and welcoming. I especially love the Irish music and dance, they make me feel happy and energetic.” – Lee Min-ji, a resident of Seoul, South Korea.

If you can’t make it to Chicago, New York or Ireland, there are still some great places in Asia to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Shanghai, China

Shanghai is another Asian city that embraces St Patrick’s Day with enthusiasm. The city holds a parade along the Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s most famous and busiest street, attracting many visitors and locals. The parade showcases various aspects of Irish culture, such as music, dance, sports, and history. The city also turns some of its landmarks green, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and the Shanghai World Financial Center, creating a stunning contrast with the night sky. Many Irish pubs and restaurants in Shanghai also offer special deals and events for St Patrick’s Day.

“I’ve used to live in Shanghai from 2016 to 2019, and I always got to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style. It’s a very festive and fun occasion, and I loved seeing the city in green. The parade is very impressive and diverse, and the green buildings are very beautiful.” – Liam Murphy, an expat from Cork, Ireland.

Singapore

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and St Patrick’s Day is no exception. The city organizes a three-day festival along the Singapore River, featuring a parade, a carnival, a concert, and a street party. The festival celebrates the contributions of the Irish community in Singapore, as well as the friendship between the two countries. The festival also showcases Irish music, dance, food, and drinks, as well as local and international acts. The festival is supported by the Embassy of Ireland, the St Patrick’s Society of Singapore, and the Singapore Tourism Board.

“I went to the Singapore St Patrick’s Day festival last year, and it was awesome. The festival was very well-organized and had something for everyone. The parade was very colorful and cheerful, and the carnival was very fun and exciting. The concert and the street party were very lively and energetic, and the music and dance were very catchy and enjoyable. I had a blast.” – Tan Wei Ling, a tourist from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.