[SAVE NOW] The Most Detailed 2024 South Korea Cherry Blossom Viewing Schedule

When is the cherry blossom season in South Korea?

The cherry blossom season in South Korea typically begins in late March and lasts until early May, coinciding with spring in the country. However, the exact timing may vary each year depending on the weather. Cherry blossoms usually bloom when temperatures range between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. The warmer and more humid conditions during this period accelerate the blooming process.

Cherry blossom viewing attracts visitors with its delicate, elegant, and serene beauty. Traveling to South Korea during the cherry blossom season offers the chance to witness the landscape blanketed in pristine blossoms. A gentle breeze can transform the streets into a romantic cascade of pink petals.

The romantic cherry blossom season in South Korea (Image source: @applesuit12)

In addition to strolling under the cherry trees, taking photos, and enjoying the blossoms, participants in South Korea's cherry blossom festivals often immerse themselves in traditional dances, cultural performances, and local folk art displays.

2024 South Korea Cherry Blossom Viewing Schedule

The 2024 cherry blossom viewing schedule in South Korea is expected to run from late March to mid-April. Save this guide to the best viewing spots for an unforgettable experience.

2024 South Korea Cherry Blossom Viewing Schedule, according to the latest update from the Korea Forest Service

• Seoul: The cherry blossom season in Seoul is expected to start around March 24 this year. Visitors can explore famous spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, Yeouido Park, and Kyung Hee University.
• Busan: Starting around March 24, Busan offers stunning locations such as Gaegeum-dong Street, Democracy Park, Samnak Ecological Park, and Oncheon Hot Springs.
• Daegu: Cherry blossoms in Daegu are predicted to bloom from March 23. Key spots include Ayang Bridge, Kkotbora Dongsan, and E-World.
• Jeju Island: As the earliest blooming region in South Korea, Jeju expects blossoms from March 20. Popular sites include Hallim Park and Seogwipo.
• Incheon: Blossoms in Incheon are expected from April 3. Enjoy a romantic stroll along the cherry blossom paths at Wolmido, combining ocean views and sunsets.
• Gwangju: Starting around March 27, don’t miss Sajik Park, the Observatory, and Gwangju Museum.
• Chuncheon: Located in the north, Chuncheon’s blossoms are expected from April 3. Visit Gyeryongsan and Gongju Jungdong for breathtaking views.
• Gyeongju: Blossoms are predicted from March 23. Alongside Donbu District and Bomun Lake, the annual Cherry Blossom Marathon adds to the excitement.
• Jeolla: Festivals and viewing activities are planned from March 28 along the Seomjingang River, Boseong Daewonsa Temple, and Wolmyeong Dong.
• Gangwon-do: From around March 30, cherry blossoms will brighten Namdaechon Street and Yeongrang Lake.

Top Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in South Korea for 2024 (Image source: @hyoshinkwak)

Stunning Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in South Korea

In Seoul

Nami Island

• Address: Nami Island: 1 Namiseom-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do.
• Ticket price: 16,000 KRW/adult (298,000 VND); 13,000 KRW/ages 13-18 (242,000 VND); 10,000 KRW/ages 3-12 (185,000 VND).
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM.

Known as a romantic island, Nami transforms in spring with a blanket of pink cherry blossoms. Beyond flower viewing, visitors can stroll under the trees, breathe in the sweet, serene scents, and enjoy the island's unique tranquility.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

• Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
• Ticket price: 3,000 KRW/adult (56,000 VND); 1,500 KRW/ages 7-18 (28,000 VND).
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

If you plan to enjoy cherry blossoms in the capital, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a perfect choice. The palace’s spring beauty combines its ancient charm with the vibrant pink of cherry blossoms. Visitors often wear traditional Hanbok to immerse themselves in the unique architecture and atmosphere of this historic site.

Gyeongbokgung Palace During Cherry Blossom Season (Image source: @dotzsoh)

Namsan Tower

• Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
• Ticket price: Namsan Tower Observatory 18,900 KRW (350,000 VND). Namsan Tower Observatory + Round-trip Cable Car 33,500 KRW (620,000 VND).
• Opening hours: Namsan Park is open 24/7. The Namsan Cable Car operates from 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM. The tower and observatory are open from 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM on weekends and holidays.

Known for offering panoramic views of Seoul, Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower) is also a romantic spot for cherry blossom viewing in the heart of the capital. What makes it special is the ability to enjoy blossoms from every angle—whether from the slopes leading to the tower or the breathtaking views from the top, creating a truly unique experience.

Namsan Tower During Cherry Blossom Season (Image source: @leonardosuwoto)

Kyung Hee University

• Address: 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
• Ticket price: Free entry to explore the campus.
• Opening hours: Open 24/7.

Though a university, Kyung Hee attracts visitors from far and wide due to the stunning pink cherry blossoms lining the path from the main gate into the campus. Strolling under the blooming trees or having a picnic beneath them has become an essential experience for anyone visiting this picturesque location.

In Busan

Gaegeum-dong Cherry Blossom Cultural Street

• Address: 765 Gaegeum-dong, Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea.
• Ticket price: Free entry.
• Opening hours: Open 24/7.

True to its name, Gaegeum-dong Cherry Blossom Cultural Street embodies the historic charm and unique architecture of Busan. Though short, this path is lined with vibrant pink cherry blossoms, complemented by wooden fences and colorful houses. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking the tranquility and romance of spring.

Gaegeum-dong Cherry Blossom Cultural Street in Busan (Image source: @eenomsiki)

Democracy Park, Junggu District

• Address: 19, Minijugongwon-gil, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea.
• Ticket price: Free entry.
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Democracy Park in Junggu District is a renowned cherry blossom destination in South Korea, famous for its variety of single and double cherry blossoms. Walking along the path from the base to the summit, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of blossoms lining the road and a panoramic sight of Busan Tower from above.

Samnak Ecological Park

• Address: 686 Samnak-dong, Sasang-gu, Busan, South Korea
• Ticket price: Free entry.
• Opening hours: Open 24/7.

Samnak Ecological Park, located along the river, serves as Busan’s green lung with its diverse vegetation. In spring, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the cherry blossoms here. Towering trees form a stunning pink floral tunnel along the riverbank, creating a dazzling display in the spring breeze.

Oncheon Stream

• Address: 451-1, Oncheoncheon-ro, Dongnae-gu, Busan, South Korea.
• Ticket price: Free entry.
• Opening hours: Open 24/7.

Oncheon Stream, also known as Oncheon-cheon, is a branch of the Suyeong River in Busan. A park adjacent to the stream features rows of cherry blossom trees, creating a serene environment. It’s a paradise for cyclists and joggers, offering a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere throughout the year.

Oncheon-cheon Stream During Cherry Blossom Season (Image source: @landinginkorea)

In Other Cities

Daegu Arboretum Riverside Park

• Address: 342, Hwaam-ro, Dalseo-gu, Daegu, South Korea.
• Ticket price: Free entry.
• Opening hours: Open 24/7.

Daegu Arboretum Riverside Park during cherry blossom season offers a refreshing atmosphere. Locals and tourists often visit for picnics, sitting under the cherry trees to enjoy the blossoms and the warm sunlight filtering through the branches.

Kkotbora Dongsan Park

• Address: 1384-1 Sankyeok-dong, Buk-gu, Daegu, South Korea
• Ticket price: Free entry.
• Opening hours: Open 24/7.

As one of the main cherry blossom spots in Daegu, Kkotbora Park is located next to Sincheon Stream and features a central path lined with cherry trees. Visitors can not only enjoy the blossoms but also take photos on the beautifully decorated and painted pathways.

E-World

• Address: 200 Duryugongwon-ro, Duryu-dong, Dalseo-gu, Daegu, South Korea.
• Ticket price: 49,000 KRW/adult (915,000 VND), 44,000 KRW/child (822,000 VND).
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM.

E-World is not just an amusement park but also a famous cherry blossom destination in South Korea. Visitors can enjoy the dazzling night lights, with LED decorations illuminating everything from buses to cherry blossom trees, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere.

E-World Amusement Park in Daegu During South Korea's Cherry Blossom Season (Image source: @sona_tree)

Famous Cherry Blossom Festivals in South Korea

Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival

As one of South Korea's most iconic annual festivals, the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival is renowned for its variety of cherry blossoms alongside azaleas and forsythias. During the day, the area is blanketed in shades of white and pink, while at night, it transforms into a dazzling spectacle with colorful lights and art exhibitions.

During the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in South Korea, locals and visitors enjoy strolling along the Han River, immersing themselves in street performances, and savoring traditional Korean street food.

• Location: 68 Yeouigongwon-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Event dates: Expected from March 27 to March 31

Cherry Blossom Season in Yeouido, South Korea (Image source: @midam.pic)

Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival

Known as a tropical paradise or the Hawaii of South Korea, Jeju Island offers a completely different charm during cherry blossom season. The festival showcases hundreds of rare cherry blossom varieties, including the island's signature King Cherry blossoms.

At the Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival, visitors should explore famous spots like Aewol, Jeonnong-ro Street, and Jeju University. Picnicking, strolling under cherry trees, and enjoying romantic melodies at the festival are must-try experiences on the island.

• Location: 721-14 Samdoil-dong, Jeju-si, Jeju, South Korea
• Event dates: Starting from March 20

Vibrant Cherry Blossom Season on Jeju Island, South Korea (Image source: @b_taeng)

4.3. Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival

Located next to Lotte Park and at the base of Lotte World Tower, the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts. The vibrant cherry blossoms reflecting on the lake create a unique and unforgettable scene.

During the festival, Seokchon Lake is bathed in pink hues. Visitors can enjoy the blossoms while experiencing traditional Korean performances like Seoul Nori Madang, Pansori, theater, and Pungmulnori, offering a deeper insight into Korean culture.

• Location: 47 Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
• Event dates: Starting from March 24

Cultural Performances at the Festival (Image source: @gody)

Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival

Famous for its cherry blossom-lined path alongside the largest beach on South Korea's east coast, the Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival offers a unique seaside flower-viewing experience unlike any other during the cherry blossom season.

To fully enjoy the Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival and witness the most stunning blooms, visitors can head to Gyeongpodae Pavilion, home to the most diverse collection of cherry blossoms around Gyeongpoho Lake.

• Location: 459-2 Chodang-dong, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea.
• Event dates: Expected from March 30

Jinhae Gunhangje Festival

Traveling to South Korea during cherry blossom season is incomplete without experiencing the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, the country's largest spring festival. The festival begins as the town is painted in vibrant pink hues, with blossoms lining the riverbanks, streets, and even railway tracks, creating picturesque scenes in Jinhae.

The Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival transforms the entire town into a stunning pink wonderland. Visitors can explore famous spots like Yeojwacheon Stream, Jeojwa Stream, Kyeongwha Station, Gyeonghwa Station, Ammin Hill, and Jangboksan Sculpture Park to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the season.

• Location: Jinhae-gun, Changwon, Gyeongnam, South Korea.
• Event dates: March 24

Famous Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae Gunhangje, South Korea (Image source: @korea_travel_gsnd)

Tips for Traveling to South Korea During Cherry Blossom Season

Preparing Your Visa

How early should you apply for a South Korean visa to enjoy the cherry blossoms? This depends on whether you’re applying for a single-entry visa (valid for one entry within three months) or a multiple-entry visa (valid for multiple entries over a set period).

For short trips, a single-entry visa is usually sufficient. Processing takes about 16 days, and the visa is valid for three months. The cost for a South Korean tourist visa is approximately 3,000,000 VND when using reputable travel agencies like Mytour Travel.

In addition to faster processing and higher visa approval rates, using travel agencies for visa services ensures detailed evaluations and comprehensive guidance for preparing your application.

A South Korean visa application typically includes the following documents:

• Passport: Valid for at least six months, and include old passports if available.
• Application form: Completed in both English and Vietnamese using the provided template.
• Photo: x 4.5 cm, white background, facing forward, no accessories, ears visible.
• Financial proof: Bank statement with a minimum balance of $5,000 per person.
• Employment proof: Employment contract or business registration.
• Other documents: Notarized ID card, translations, travel itinerary, hotel booking, flight tickets, etc.

Clothing

Spring cherry blossom viewing in South Korea often calls for light and comfortable attire. Depending on your travel plans, pack suitable outfits to fully enjoy the stunning cherry blossom season.

To fully immerse yourself in the cherry blossom festival atmosphere and activities in South Korea, opt for warm and comfortable clothing for ease of movement. For flower viewing, leisurely strolls, and capturing beautiful photos, renting a traditional Hanbok is a perfect choice, complementing the romantic spring vibe.

Below are some popular Hanbok rental locations in South Korea with affordable prices starting from 8,000 KRW (147,000 VND). Most of these rental shops are conveniently located near cultural tourist spots, ancient villages, and palaces, making it easy for visitors to rent and explore.

Seoul:

• Gigibebe Hanbok: 3rd floor, 18 Jahamun-ro 2-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
• Hello Hanbok: 2nd floor, 19 Bukchon-ro 5na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
• Hanboknam Bukchon Store: 109 Sogyeok-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.

Busan:

• Hanbok It House: 115, Okcheon-ro, Saha-gu, Busan.
• Chulsoo & Younghee: 123 Okcheon-ro, Saha-gu, Busan.
• Hanbok Ibgogage: 180-1, Gamnae 2-ro, Saha-gu, Busan.

Preparing Outfits for South Korea's Cherry Blossom Festival (Image source: @elizabeth._.photo)

Other Essentials

Say goodbye to packing stress for your South Korea trip with these three lifesaving tips:

Travel SIM Card

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip during South Korea's cherry blossom season, it's advisable to purchase a travel SIM card in advance from Vietnam. This eliminates the need for complex registration processes or providing personal information as required in South Korea, while also offering support throughout the activation process.

Travel SIM cards for South Korea typically start at around 100,000 VND, with prices varying based on usage duration, call features, and data access.

Portable Charger

A lifesaver for phones constantly capturing moments during the cherry blossom season, always carry a portable charger to ensure your journey remains uninterrupted.

Power Adapter

South Korea uses 220V electricity with round 2-3 pin sockets. It's recommended to bring a universal adapter or a compatible converter for convenience.

South Korea uses round 2-pin sockets (Image source: @one-eight-one)

We hope the 2024 South Korea cherry blossom viewing schedule provided here gives you a comprehensive overview of the upcoming season. Save these helpful tips and have a memorable and fulfilling trip to South Korea during the cherry blossom season!

Dung

Image source: Internet