Setting our sights slightly further afield this week, we trust you might be persuaded to explore beyond Singapore shores with this selection of events and happenings
Japan
When: From Nov 29
Where: Niseko, Hokkaido
Why: Powder bunnies can officially rejoice as the Niseko United ski season officially begins on Nov 29! Besides the famed ja-pow (in reference to Japan’s world-class powder-dry snow) to look forward to, there is also the new high-speed six-seater Ace Gondola in Grand Hirafu to check out, which comes with increased capacity and advanced features like Wi-Fi, a loading carpet and heated seats. A new restaurant is also scheduled to open on the second floor of the Ace Gondola Summit Station to offer modern fine dining with panoramic mountain views.
What else: Even if you have been faithful to your preferred hotel chain or cosy little lodge, the new Muwa Niseko luxury wellness resort and its just-launched “Luxury All-in-One” package might just tempt you to try something new this winter season. Nestled at the foothills of the Grand Hirafu ski area, expect a stay with all the bells and whistles on, including private infinity onsens, delicious cuisine by famous Tokyo names including Hito by Tacubo, a branch of the Michelin-starred Tacubo Italian restaurant, and Sukiyaki Hiyama, the Niseko outpost of the 113-year-old Ginza restaurant, direct ski-in, ski-out access, in-room open-air rotenburo baths and heaps more.
Photo: Shutterstock
Thailand
When: From now until Feb 28, 2026
Where: Nong Han Lake, Kumphawapi – Phibunrak – Prachaksinlapakhom districts, Udon Thani
Why: The symbol of love, passion and even a representation of the heart of the Buddha, the red lotus also signifies growth and triumph over difficult circumstances and adversity, as a beautiful flower rises from the mud. Also conveying spiritual awakening and a sign of good luck, it is no wonder that visitors aplenty flock to Udon Thani every cool season to admire one of Thailand’s most stunning natural spectacles. Thousands of red lotus blossoms or bua sai will fan out across the tranquil, shallow waters of Nong Han, the country’s largest natural lake. Highly picturesque, you would need to rent a boat to fully appreciate the beauty of the surroundings, complete with scenic old villages that hug the water’s shoreline.
What else: There are also a number of attractions in the area, including Wat Pa Dong Rai, a modern temple complex situated in the middle of a lake and whose architecture also resembles a lotus flower. For a more historic experience, go to Wat Pa Sawang Tham or even the Ban Chiang National Museum, which provides insight into the region’s archaeological past.
See also: Season’s best
Malaysia
When: Nov 28 to 30
Where: George Town, Penang
Why: The George Town Literary Festival is one of Malaysia’s best-recognised platforms for free speech, with a specific focus on world literature. Established in 2011, it is held annually within the charming Unesco World Heritage Site zone of the city. Expect a stellar line-up of local and international writers, poets and performers will converge to engage in topics and themes that are prescient and poignant. Past speakers include International Booker Prize winner Jokha Alharthi and Man Booker Prize shortlisted novelist Tan Twan Eng. This year, foundational poet and literary critic Wong Phui Nam, part of the country’s first generation of writers and poets who wrote and published literary work in English, is also expected to launch In the Mirror, an essential collection of poems and critical writing.
What else: All that thinking and talking can make one hungry. And Penang is a veritable foodie’s paradise. Not too far away from all the literary goings-on is Lebuh Presgrave. Come evening, the area is lively and bustling with stalls hawking fabulous prawn noodles and oyster omelettes. If you must eat in comfort, the Bib Gourmand-rated Communal Table by Gen is also in the vicinity, offering modern culinary takes using local ingredients.
See also: Rest. Relax. Rejuvenate.
China
When: From now until Nov 23
Where: Shanghai Culture Square, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Why: Who doesn’t love a good family-friendly musical? As Charlie and the Chocolate Factory the Musical makes its long-awaited China debut this year, expect a Broadway musical absolutely bursting with candy, magic and childhood wonder. Based on the much-beloved book by Roald Dahl, relive your favourite memories of the legendary story of Willy Wonka and Charlie Bucket as they navigate a world where mischievous nut-sorting squirrels can come to life amid cascading waterfalls of chocolate and enchanted glass elevators while discovering along the way that kindness and honesty are the keys to the real prize. The musical debuted in 2017 and has thrilled audiences in London’s West End as well as New York’s Broadway.
What else: Since we are on the topic of sweets, pop over to Gelato Dal Cuore for a scoop of something icy and nice. Founded by Singaporean Gerard Low and his Gansu Province-born wife Lisa Yang, the flagship in Jing’An is where you can enjoy all the traditional flavours as well as clever new ones, like scallion noodle and kaya toast. Dal Cuore also recently had a crossover collaboration with Hennessy V.S.O.P to launch two co-branded flavours and specialty drinks.
Indonesia
When: Nov 21
Where: The Kasablanka Hall, Jakarta
Why: Fans of Demon Slayer would appreciate this special orchestral concert that celebrates what is arguably anime’s most epic series via live symphonic renditions of its epic soundtrack. For one night only and unlike typical concerts, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba in Concert will take fans through emotional and unforgettable moments and scenes, blending music with visual storytelling, from main protagonist Tanjiro Kamado’s journey with the Demon Slayer Corps to avenge his family who were slaughtered by demons while also finding a way to return his sister Nezuko to human form. After Jakarta, the global concert tour will continue onwards to key cities in Europe.
What else: If you happen to still be in a mood for all things Japanese, head over to the 63rd floor of The Langham, Jakarta in vibrant Senayan where celebrated Japanese Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s first restaurant in Southeast Asia awaits. Feast on sushi and sashimi, washed down with wine and sake, or opt for Chef Juntaro’s specialty rolls, namely the lobster tempura roll with sesame and spicy sauce or the fried spicy tuna maki with ponzu.
