In pictures: Chinese New Year

Millions across Asia have been celebrating the beginning of the lunar New Year. They are welcoming in the Year of the Goat, generally seen as auspicious, except for babies who, it is believed, will face a life of challenges if they are born in the year.

These Malaysian Chinese are visiting a temple to pray for prosperity in the year of the goat

Beijing residents spent the first day of the new year in temples, throwing coins in wells for good luck

Millions celebrated with firecrackers, prayers and dragon dances

Thousands flocked to Manila's bustling Chinatown to watch street performances by lion dancers

People burned incense to ensure the Year of the Goat would be favourable for them

Hundreds lined Hong Kong's streets to watch a smaller than usual parade amid worries for the financial future

In London, the New Year was marked with a spectacular display by Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang at the Tate Modern museum