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Best hidden gem destinations in Asia

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Gifu
Cormorant fishing, castle and old merchant lanes
7.1
Gujo Hachiman's clear streams run through the centre of this small castle town. Locals gather each summer for the Gujo Odori, a folk dance held on the streets for over 30 nights. Visitors can drink from public fountains fed by the same clean water. A wooden castle overlooks the town from a hill above.
Highlights:
  • 🛤️ Walk through the historic Kawaramachi streets lined with old houses
  • 🐦 Watch traditional cormorant fishing on the Nagara River
  • 🏯 Ride the ropeway to Gifu Castle for mountain views
Azerbaijan
Baku skyline, Silk Road towns and mountains
7.0
Yanar Dag, meaning burning mountain, has kept a natural gas flame alight on a hillside for decades. Locals discovered the fire after a shepherd accidentally ignited a gas seep. Visitors can walk right up to the flames along a low wall at dusk. Mud volcanoes near Gobustan bubble away a short drive from the capital.
Highlights:
  • 🪨 Visit Gobustan to view ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes
  • 🌆 See the Flame Towers light up the Baku skyline at night
  • 🏰 Walk through the walled Old City of Baku, Icherisheher
Bhutan
Himalayan monasteries, dzongs and trekking trails
8.5
Bhutan measures national progress through Gross National Happiness instead of only economic output. Paro Taktsang, known as the Tiger's Nest, clings to a cliff face 900 metres above the valley. Visitors can hike several hours up a forested trail to reach the monastery. Prayer flags snap in the wind along much of the climb.
Highlights:
  • 🌄 Admire Himalayan panoramas from Dochula Pass’ 108 chortens
  • 🎉 Join a colorful Buddhist festival at Punakha Dzong
  • 🏔️ Hike to the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro
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