Buzz
As spring air gently arrives, cherry blossoms begin to bloom, marking the perfect time for early spring excursions. If you've ever dreamt of visiting South Korea and witnessing the beauty of cherry blossoms, this is your golden opportunity.
SEOUL
1. Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival (April)
In addition to enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms, indulge in delicious treats at food stalls within the area. You can also savor performances and events as part of the festival.
- Address: Tongsin-dong, Jinhae-gu, Changwon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Nearest Station: Yeouido Station (Exit 5 or 9) or Yeoinaru Station (Exit 1) or National Assembly Station (Exit 6)
2. Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival (April)
Photo: Flickr
The perfect time to visit Seokchon Lake is in spring, around April, when cherry blossoms along the lake burst into full bloom. It coincides with one of the most anticipated festivals of the year – the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival.
Spend the entire day strolling amidst vibrant pink blossoms, participating in experiential activities, and enjoying performances and exhibitions during the festival.
Klook Tip: Book your Lotte World tickets through Klook to skip long queues and indulge in the exciting activities on-site.
Seokchon Lake Park
- Address: 148, Jamsil-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
- Nearest Station: Jamsil Station, exit 2 or 10.
Lotte World
- Address: 240 Olympic-ro, Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul
- Nearest Station: Jamsil Station, exit 4 on subway line 2 or 8.
3. Namsan Park (April)
One of Seoul's most famous parks – Namsan Park is just a short walk from the iconic N Seoul Tower. Sitting at an elevation of 262 meters, atop a hill, this park is naturally adorned with cherry blossoms blooming throughout spring!
Of course, while at Namsan Park, you must also visit N Seoul Tower and enjoy panoramic views of cherry blossoms from above. With tickets from Klook, plan your visit to N Seoul Tower effortlessly for the best observation experience.
Namsan Park
- Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Nearest Station: Namsan Cable Car
N Seoul Tower
- Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2 (i) ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Nearest Station: Namsan Cable Car
4. Gyeongbokgung Palace (April)
As a top iconic landmark in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also an ideal place to admire cherry blossoms. Take a stroll around the palace gardens and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Good news! You'll get free entrance if you dress in traditional Hanbok attire! Rent your Hanbok at Klook to enjoy this special offer. Not only will you have free entrance, but you'll also capture timeless photos reminiscent of Korean royalty!
Pro tip from Klook: There are other beautiful palaces around Seoul during cherry blossom season: Changdeokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Unhyeongung Palace, and Changgyeonggung Palace.
- Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Nearest Station: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5 on Line 3. Anguk Station, Exit 1 on Line 3.
To maximize your cherry blossom experience in Seoul, you can Klook a cherry blossom day tour. With a one-day tour, you'll visit the most beautiful cherry blossom spots based on the weather and your available time in Seoul.
>> What to do in Seoul? Find out now!
INCHEON
5. Jayu Park & Incheon Grand Park (Mid-April)
Photo: Flickr
What's in Incheon besides having a major international airport? You'll be delighted to know that Incheon is home to enchanting cherry blossom viewing spots! So, take advantage of your layover and visit nearby locations to savor the cherry blossoms in Incheon!
One must-visit spot in Incheon is Jayu Park, where you can see pink cherry blossoms from afar. The park is just a short walk from the Folk Village of Songwol-dong, making it a perfect leisurely stroll. Additionally, don't miss the Incheon Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival, where you can witness the spectacle of cherry blossoms scattered throughout the park, and locals enjoying biking or picnicking.
Jayu Park
- Address: 25 Jayugongwonnam-ro, Bukseong-dong 3(sam)-ga, Jung-gu, Incheon
- Nearest Station: Incheon Station, Exit 1 (Subway Line 2)
Incheon Grand Park
- Address: 180 Jangsu-dong, Namdong-gu, Incheon
- Nearest Station: Incheon Grand Park Station (Incheon Subway Line 2)
>> What to do in Incheon? Find out now!
GANGWON-DO
6. Nami Island (Early April)
Surrounded by picturesque scenery, it's hard to resist the allure of Nami Island. It's no wonder it became a tourist hotspot after being featured in a Korean TV drama.
The island is considered beautiful throughout the year, but witnessing Nami Island transform into a pink paradise of cherry blossoms is an irresistible beauty. Capture the best photos along the rows of cherry blossom trees by the Water Stages.
- Address: 1 Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do
- Transportation: The simplest way is to book Klook's car service. Additionally, you can join a tour to Nami Island including visits to Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, etc.
>> What to do in Gangwon? Find out now!
JEJU
7. Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival, Seogwipo (Late March)
Away from the bustling city, Jeju Island is the home of rare Emperor cherry blossoms – one of the most distinct and rarest cherry blossom species, providing a unique opportunity to witness them up close.
The cherry blossom trees can be found all over the island, with major scenic spots in Jeju located in Seogwipo city center and Jeju Sports Complex. These charming blossoms only last for 2-3 days, so keep an eye on the blooming schedule not to miss this fleeting beauty!
However, even if you miss the cherry blossom season, you can still enjoy the spectacular scenery around Jeju Island. Around mid-April, you might encounter fields of vibrant yellow canola flowers!
- Address: Jeonnong-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
- Nearest Station: National University of Jeju Bus Stop (Bus #6, 7, 10, 11, 37, 46, 55, 97, 500, 502)
>> What to do in Jeju? Explore now!
CHANGWON CITY
8. Jinhae Gunhangje Festival (Early April)
When it comes to cherry blossom festivals in Korea, the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival undoubtedly makes the list. It's one of the largest nationwide, attracting visitors from around the globe to witness the stunning pastel pink hues of cherry blossoms.
Top spots to admire cherry blossoms include Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station. Alongside the scenic beauty, don't miss out on trying the sweet Cherry Blossom Cakes, available only during the spring season when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
- Address: 9 Tongsin-dong, Jinhae, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Transportation: Join a Jinhae Gunhangje Festival day tour from Seoul or nearby Busan. If planning your own trip, remember to book a Korea Rail Pass from Klook.
BUSAN
9. Namcheon-dong (Late March)
Photo: Flickr
Namcheon-dong in Busan, also known as Cherry Blossom Road, is a noteworthy landmark! With cherry blossom trees densely lining both sides of the street in Samik Beach town, it feels like you're traveling through the gateway to a cherry blossom paradise.
Some of the trees here are over 30 years old! A popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the blossoms, it's close to other famous attractions like Gwangalli Beach.
- Address: Namcheon-dong, Suyeong-gu, Busan.
- Transportation: From Geumnyeonsangan subway station (exit 5), a 10-minute walk or a short taxi ride. If traveling to Busan from Seoul, remember to book the KR Pass from Klook.
Klook Pro Tip: There are other notable cherry blossom spots in Busan, including Dalmaji-gil in Haeundae, Igidae Park, Hwangnyeongsan Circular Road, and Oncheonchon Stream Park.
>> What to do in Busan, explore now!
GYEONGJU
10. Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Running Trail (Early April)
Bomunho Lake
Another way to chase cherry blossoms, the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Running Trail is a delightful blend of running, pausing, and inhaling the fragrance of cherry blossoms. Run along the shaded cherry blossom-lined paths and the beautiful Bomunho Lake, one of Gyeongju's most scenic landmarks.
It's a marathon where you won't mind slowing down to admire the scenery without worrying about burning feet or sore muscles. Whether you're a runner or a casual jogger, no one will complain if you take your time to appreciate the surroundings.
If you're not a fan of running, you can join a day tour in Gyeongju from Seoul. Explore the city, visit iconic historical sites like Donggung Palace, Wolji Lake, and Bulguksa Temple. You can also try on traditional hanbok and stroll through the ancient paths of Gyhol Hanok Village!
GWANGJU / DAMYANG
11. Gwangju Bamboo Forest (Early April)
Another intriguing spot to admire cherry blossoms is the Gwangju Bamboo Forest, also known as Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. Witness the explosion of pink and pastel white blossoms amidst towering bamboo trees.
Reminiscent of Japan's famous Arashiyama bamboo grove, venture to this unique bamboo forest to experience unforgettable scenes. As you stroll through the tranquil forest, take a moment to gaze and immerse yourself in the refreshing spring weather.
- Address: 119 Jungnogwon-ro, Damyang-eup, Damyang, Jeollanam-do.
- How to get there: A few hours from Seoul by train, the best way to reach is by KTX, and you can use the Korea Rail Pass.
Essentials for your cherry blossom trip in Korea
After having the list of must-visit places, you'll need these essentials to complete your journey. A 4G WiFi device will be handy for all your photo-sharing moments and to look up information, locations in Korea. You'll also need a Korea Railplus card to reach those cherry blossom spots.
>> Dive deeper into the wonders of South Korea!
