Across Asia and even as far as Moscow, celebrations marked the beginning of the Lunar New Year and the arrival of the Year of the Snake.
In Hong Kong, hundreds gathered at the Wong Tai Sin Taoist temple, eager to be among the first to place incense sticks as midnight approached.
Ming So, a yearly visitor, shared his wishes: "I hope my family will be blessed, my business successful, and that my country finds peace. I wish for a better year ahead."
The Lunar New Year, known as the Spring Festival in China, Tet in Vietnam, and Seollal in Korea, is a significant holiday for communities worldwide. The Year of the Snake succeeds the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, welcomed the new year with firecrackers and lion dances at the Guan Di temple.
Worshippers offered incense, bowing before placing the sticks in golden pots as smoke filled the air.
Many Chinese workers journey back to their hometowns during the national holiday, creating the world's largest annual human migration. Beijing transforms, with quieter streets and closed shops.
Traditionally, families gather for dinner on New Year's Eve and visit temple fairs for entertainment, snacks, and souvenirs.
Many also use the holiday for travel, with popular destinations including Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, the United States, South Korea, Macao, and Vietnam, according to Trip.com.
Moscow launched a 10-day Lunar New Year festival with a vibrant parade featuring drummers, dancers, and dragon and snake figures.
Amidst strengthening ties between China and Russia, visitors in Moscow celebrated Chinese culture, enjoying food, performances, and art.
Observers noted the growing collaboration between the two nations since 2022, potentially influenced by perceived challenges to the established global order.