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Best destinations to visit in April in Asia

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Kyoto
Temples, geisha districts and kaiseki dining
9.2
Elegant and old, this former capital has more than a thousand temples and shrines. Cherry blossoms are the highlight of April along the Philosopher's Path and in Maruyama Park. Geisha in the Gion district perform the Miyako Odori dance in spring. Book hotels months ahead because crowds are large.
Highlights:
  • ⛩️ Climb the vermillion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine
  • 🍱 Experience Japan’s beautifully presented Kaiseki dining at a traditional restaurant
  • 🎋 Stroll through the magical Arashiyama bamboo forest early in the morning
Kanazawa
Samurai streets, gold leaf and Kenrokuen garden
8.2
The Maeda clan ruled this city for centuries and built Kenroku-en, one of the three great gardens of Japan. Cherry blossoms are at their peak there in early April. The Higashi Chaya district has wooden teahouses from the Edo period. Fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan is served in the markets.
Highlights:
  • 🍵 Wander the preserved tea houses of Higashi Chaya District
  • 🏯 Explore Kanazawa Castle and its impressive defensive grounds
  • 🌸 Stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s finest landscapes
Sendai
Tohoku's biggest city with samurai roots
7.3
Blossoms in this city usually peak in mid April, later than in Tokyo. Nishi Park and Aoba Castle are good places to see them. A statue of the lord Date Masamune stands at the castle site. Matsushima Bay, a short train ride away, has pine covered islands. Grilled beef tongue is the local dish.
Highlights:
  • 🥩 Taste Sendai’s legendary grilled beef tongue, gyutan
  • 🌳 Walk the lush Jozenji-dori Avenue lined with zelkova trees
  • 🎎 Visit the ornate mausoleum of Date Masamune at Zuihoden
Lake Kawaguchi
Mirror-like lake with the best Fuji views
Calm and scenic, this lake at the foot of Mount Fuji is one of the Fuji Five Lakes. Cherry trees bloom around the shore in mid April, later than in Tokyo. The mountain is still capped with snow. A ropeway climbs Mount Tenjo for wide views of the lake and Fuji.
Highlights:
  • ♨️ Relax in an onsen overlooking Mount Fuji
  • 🛶 Cruise across Lake Kawaguchi for mountain views
  • 📸 Capture Mount Fuji’s perfect reflection on the lake
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