Aside from Japan‘s sakura craze, South Korea cherry blossom season can be a sought-after occasion in Asia — particularly as a result of it may be fairly quick! As such, this is likely one of the finest occasions to discover the nation and witness the distinctive magnificence and vibe that the blossoms add to the native landscapes and sights.
Your top-of-mind vacation spot will certainly be the capital, Seoul, however I urge you to attempt to make time in exploring different locations like Busan or Jeju Island.
RELATED READ:
– Spring Flowers in Korea: When & The place to Go
– Seoul Itinerary
– South Korea Journey Guides
South Korea Cherry Blossom Map Forecast
- DISCLAIMER: The above knowledge is as of March 2023. Take word that sudden adjustments in temperature, rainfall, and wind power can speed up, delay or shorten the forecast above — however you possibly can already use this preliminary forecast as a preliminary information. Relaxation assured, I’ll maintain this publish up to date as soon as dates occur to vary so come drop by occasionally!
In most elements of South Korea, the cherry blossom’s blooming dates begin across the final week of March (beginning in Jeju Island) and lasts till the primary week of April; however Seoul, specifically, has blooms that come a bit later.
Koreans usually name cherry blossoms beot-kkot (벗꽃) and they aren’t to be confused with similar-looking blooms like that from the almond, apricot, peach, and plum bushes. Moreover, South Korean cherry blossoms have a distinctive pink hue and a beautiful scent that’s considerably totally different from that of Japan.
NOTE: The Korean cherry tree which is also called ‘King Cherry’ originated from Jeju Island and it barely differs from most different cherry blossom bushes resulting from the truth that its flowers are bigger. In addition they solely bloom in full for less than a few days!
All in all, for those who’re planning a visit to South Korea any time quickly, you need to pay attention to these high locations from ALL of the areas within the nation that offers you lovely cherry blossom views, in addition to an opportunity to take part in bustling cherry blossom festivals!
Finest South Korea Cherry Blossom Spots
Different South Korean blooms to be careful for?
See this record of the preferred spring flowers in Korea — when to see them and the place to go!
South Korea has 9 (9) provinces, specifically: North Chungcheong, South Chungcheong, Gangwon, Gyeonggi, North Gyeongsang, South Gyeongsang, North Jeolla, South Jeolla, and Jeju Particular Self-Governing Province.
For this text, I’ve mixed north and south provinces; thus, narrowing it right down to solely six (6) to be able to higher see the highest South Korea cherry blossom spots that you should see all around the nation!
» Cherry Blossom Spots in Seoul & Gyeonggi Areas
Photograph by: Shutterstock
◘◘ Seoul
(March 28 to April 3)
As a dynamic capital, there are tons of key locations that you should see for viewing South Korea cherry blossom bushes. To call a couple of, they’re…
- Yeouido Park: This is likely one of the hottest locations to see cherry blossoms in Seoul and it even has its personal competition referred to as Yeouido Cherry Blossom Pageant or Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Pageant. It’s well-known for its 1.8k Korean Cherry bushes that line the boulevard and also you’re certain to discover a mass arrival of vacationers who wish to witness the fantastic thing about these cherry bushes. Because of its recognition, plenty of distributors, road performances, and outside leisure will even be unfold across the park. At evening, Yeouido Park even transforms right into a magical setting when the cherry blossom bushes are lit in numerous coloured lights.
- Pageant Date: (TBC) April 6 to fifteen
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- Pageant Date: (TBC) April 6 to fifteen
- Seokchon Lake: Discovered within the japanese a part of the town, this well-liked spot is beautiful all-year-round — nevertheless it’s additional particular throughout spring when it’s surrounded with colourful cherry bushes. Should you’re visiting the close by Lotte World Amusement Park, that is absolutely a cease that you should make! Apart from cherry blossom viewing, different actions right here embrace piano on the lake, cherry blossom market, and numerous performances.
. - Seoul Grand Park: This park is stuffed with nice surprises provided that it gives entry to each cherry blossoms viewing and an amusement park that includes a zoo and botanical backyard! So as to add, Seoul Grand Park additionally holds a big cherry blossom competition in the course of the first week of April the place vacationers can take pleasure in stay performances of kinds.
- Pageant Date: (TBC) April 8 to 17
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- Pageant Date: (TBC) April 8 to 17
- Seoul Forest: (Pictured Above) This can be a well-liked attraction in Seoul however with its grand area, you gained’t really feel the crowds as you take pleasure in the fantastic thing about the encompassing cherry bushes. Additionally, you will love the bridge that’s discovered in the course of the forest the place you view some lavender-colored blooms. There are even deers dwelling right here and also you’re free to feed them. Should you ask me, that is the right spot for a romantic picnic with the one you love!
. - Namsan Mountain: That is the place the well-known N Seoul Tower is discovered and it’s completely attractive within the spring. In any case, the trail in its Namsan Park is alleged to be the longest path of South Korea cherry blossom bushes within the metropolis! Moreover, additionally, you will witness fairly spring flowers like forsythias and azaleas.
. - Kyung Hee College: A wonderful Seoul campus made much more attractive in the course of the cherry blossom season! It’s thought of a hidden spot for cherry blossom viewing in Seoul the place the sunshine pink cherry blossoms give an attractive backdrop of the structure. You’ll really discover 200 cherry bushes lined from the primary gate to the primary constructing, so it makes for an incredible Instagrammable spot!
. - Seoul Nationwide Cemetery: Though this isn’t preferrred for picnics and leisure, this cemetery stays to be a well-liked cherry blossom viewing spot amongst locals. It’s also possible to take pleasure in different actions right here just like the altering of the guards in addition to photograph exhibitions.
. - Royal Palaces: Top-of-the-line locations to understand the well-known spring flowers is at Seoul’s royal palaces corresponding to Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Changgyeonggung. With its distinctive architectural design, it’s an absolute should to take photographs in these spots whereas carrying a hanbok rental, or the normal Korean costume, as it’s the most quintessential and dramatic Korean spring photograph.
. - Anyang Stream: This lengthy path is lined with cherry blossom bushes that present an incredible cover to the walkway. Positioned on the western facet of the town, it is a hidden attraction the place not plenty of vacationers crowd in — thus, making it a super place for viewing and photograph ops. Anyang Stream can be dwelling to some lovely surrounding flower fields and gardens that add extra magnificence to the place.
. - Yangjaecheon Stream: That is thought of one more hidden spot for South Korea cherry blossom viewing. The locals often go to this place to see the attractive spring flowers and benefit from the native Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom and Lantern.
- Pageant Date: (TBC) April 5 to 9
◘◘ Gyeonggi
(April 5 to 11)
- Nami Island: This crescent-shaped island is likely one of the hottest day journeys from Seoul provided that the entire of the world is roofed in numerous bushes that cycle superbly by way of the seasons. Naturally, in spring, the South Korea cherry blossom bushes line up a lot of the pathways like a cover, making it such a romantic vacation spot not just for {couples} however for households and associates alike. Aside from viewing the encompassing nature, you too can take pleasure in various actions right here corresponding to renting a motorbike, zip-lining, buying, and plenty of others.
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» Cherry Blossom Spots in Gangwon Area
Photograph by: Shutterstock
This northeast province of South Korea is mountainous and it’s well-known for its ski resorts — the truth is, the county of Pyeongchang has been a bunch web site for the Winter Olympics. However when it’s spring season, the top-of-mind metropolis to go to is Gangneung.
◘◘ Gangneung
(March 31 to April 6)
- Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Pageant: In Gangneung, Gyeongpo is well-known for its pure sights (e.g. seashores and lakes) and festivals; considered one of which is the Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Pageant. For the very best spots to view these South Korea cherry blossoms and revel in competition actions, they’re:
- Gyeongpodae Pavilion: This is likely one of the 8 scenic websites in Gwangdong that’s positioned on a hill north of Gyeongpo Lake.
- Gyeongpo Provincial Park: Inside its expanse is the Gyeongpodae Pavilion, however other than that, it additionally has different key historic websites corresponding to Geumnanjeong Pavilion, Banghaejeong Pavilion, Haeunjeong Pavilion, Ojukheon Home, Seongyojang Home, and Guesthouse Gate. And as you wander round in search of extra blossom sights, you’ll love how the park is simply subsequent to the famed Seoraksan Mountain and Odaesan Nationwide Park.
- Pageant Date: (TBC) April 6 to fifteen
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» Cherry Blossom Spots in Chungcheong Area
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Chungcheong is split into North Chungcheong Province (capital: Cheongju) and South Chungcheong Province (capital: Hongseong County), and the latter is alleged to be South Korea’s richest province!
◘◘ Jecheon
(March 30 to April 6)
- Cheongpunghoban Cherry Blossom Pageant: This competition is held in Cheongpung Lake the place yow will discover blooms not solely from cherry bushes but in addition from forsythias and azaleas. In the course of the competition, guests can take pleasure in exhibitions, performances and even actions like bungee leaping! Additionally, you will love the 13-kilometer Cheongpung Lake Highway that’s lined with 1000’s of Korea cherry bushes.
- Pageant Date: (TBC) April 6 to eight
◘◘ Daejeon
(March 27 to April 2)
- Town of Daejeon won’t be on most vacationers’ must-see lists — nevertheless it needs to be! In any case, it has a number of wonderful South Korea cherry blossom viewing spots, specifically…
- Gyeryong Mountain or Nationwide Park: Discovered inside this space is the Donghaksa Temple and the environment have a formidable show of pink bushes that you’ll love taking footage in! There may be additionally a competition that’s being held for this location however it’s not as effectively marketed to international vacationers.
- Chungnam Nationwide College: Identified to have the most important gathering of cherry bushes within the metropolis!
- KAIST College: Has the second largest gathering of cherry bushes in Daejeon and the very best spot is alleged to be throughout the Sports activities Complicated.
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» Cherry Blossom Spots in Gyeongsang Area
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Gyeongsang can be divided into two provinces: North Gyeongsang (capital: Daegu) and South Gyeongsang (capital: Changwon) — and it’s on this latter province the place you’ll find the massive cities of Busan and Ulsan.
◘◘ Changwon
(March 23 to 30)
- Jinhae Gunhangje Pageant: It’s typically stated that that is the most important South Korea cherry blossom competition whereby over greater than 2 million folks flock to the south coastal metropolis of Changwon to get a glimpse of the famed bushes. This competition is often held on the Jinhae Jungwon Rotary Intersection and you’ll find various artwork and cultural performances which might be unfold about within the venue (corresponding to in Paldo Pungmul Market). Different key places are…
- Gyeonghwa Station: There may be an 800-meter part of flowers on this railroad you can admire, in addition to a close-by stream the place a number of cherry bushes are lined up. As pictured above, that is the place most guests attempt to look ahead to a practice to go by so as to get such an iconic image.
- Jehwangsan Mountain Park: If you need a panoramic view of the town in its pink glory, head over to this spot.
- Pageant Date: (TBC) March 30 to April 6
◘◘ Gyeongju
(March 24 to 31)
- Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Pageant: This competition was first held in 2017 and it coincided with the twenty sixth Cherry Blossom Marathon that the town is well-known for (and which you’ll be a part of for those who’re up for it!). Key highlights for viewing the blossoms are…
- Bomun Lake: About 9,000 cherry bushes across the lake will stunningly bloom and as you go the time away within the lake, you possibly can take pleasure in the next…
- Waterwheel Sq.: A well-liked photograph zone the place yow will discover an enormous waterwheel on a path.
- Bomun Pavilion (Bomunjeong): A wonderful pavilion that may be a favourite of plenty of photographers.
- Pedal a duck boat: Share this expertise with somebody by heading over to Hoban Sq. and paying for a duck boat! (Should you’re not eager, you too can hire a motorbike).
- Pageant Date: (TBC) March 30 to April 8
- Bomun Lake: About 9,000 cherry bushes across the lake will stunningly bloom and as you go the time away within the lake, you possibly can take pleasure in the next…
◘◘ Hadong/Jirisan
(March 22 to 29)
- Hwagae Cherry Blossoms Pageant: Held in Simni Cherry Blossom Highway, this 4-kilometer street connecting Ssanggyesa Temple and Hwagaejangeo Market is stuffed with over 1,200 cherry blossom bushes and plenty of locals flock to this small village simply to get a glimpse of its pinkish glory.
- Ssanggyesa Temple: A well-liked temple on this space of Jirisan that dates again to the eighth century.
- Simni Cherry Blossom Highway: It is a densely-packed street filled with cherry bushes and it even has a nickname “Hollye-gil” which implies ‘Marriage Highway’ or ‘Marriage ceremony Highway’. There’s a native perception that for those who and the one you love stroll on this street collectively, you’ll finally marry and stay fortunately ever after. Who is aware of if it’s true, nevertheless it’s price a shot, proper? -wink-
- Pageant Date: March 30 to April 5
◘◘ Busan
(March 24 to 31)
- Samnak Ecological Park (Sasang-gu): An extended path lined with over a thousand of cherry bushes, that when in bloom appear to kind a tunnel over the park’s path. With this function, it has simply develop into one of many topmost lovely spots in South Korea!
- Dalmaji Hill (Haeundae-gu): Discovered southeast of Haeundae Seashore, that is usually known as a romantic vacation spot the place {couples} hang around throughout spring.
- Oncheoncheon Stream (Dongnae-gu): Operating by way of two districts of Dongnae and Yeonje, this riverside walkway is fondly referred to as a ‘flower street’ and it’s a type of iconic spots that you simply typically see in photographs of South Korea. The stream spans 10 kilometers lengthy and the stream itself is usually adorned in colourful umbrellas.
- Samik Seashore Residence (Suyeong-gu): Discovered close to Gwanganli Seashore is a favourite of locals which is the Cherry Blossom Highway — an extended stretch of previous cherry bushes that overlook the Gwangan Bridge. It’s also possible to take a look at the close by Hwangnyeongsan Ring Highway for extra cherry bushes.
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» Cherry Blossom Spots in Jeolla Area
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Jeolla is split into North Jeolla (capital: Jeonju) and South Jeolla (capital: Muan County). If there may be one place it’s essential embrace in your South Korea itinerary, it’s to…
◘◘ Gwangju
(March 22 to twenty-eight)
- Seomjin River Cherry Blossom Pageant: Among the many 5 main rivers within the nation, the Seomjin River is alleged to be the cleanest, and its 3-km lengthy cherry tree street that’s speckled with different colourful mixes of flowers is known as one of many ‘100 Most Stunning Roads in Korea’. Through the competition, you’ll discover quite a lot of stay live performance performances which might be extra intimate, thus giving the place a sense of quaintness. Don’t miss out on seeing this spot for those who’re ever within the Jeolla area!
- Pageant Date: (TBC) Late March or Early April
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» Cherry Blossom Spots in Jeju Area
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Identified for its pristine coastlines and volcanic landscapes, Jeju Island may simply be an incredible spring vacation spot for you particularly since it’s the place South Korea’s first cherry blossom bloom occurs!
◘◘ Jeju Island
(March 20 to 27)
- Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival: Jeju prides itself for having been the place the place the King Cherry Tree originated; the cherry tree that produces the most important cherry blossom petals! As I’ve talked about earlier than, the flowers of this specific tree solely final for two to three days so it’s a should that you simply time your go to right here effectively. Throughout the entire of the competition, don’t additionally neglect to drop by these essential places each evening and day (since they typically illuminate some cherry tree streets when it’s darkish).
- Jeonnong-ro Avenue
- Entrance to Jeju Nationwide College
- Jangjeon-ri, Aewol-eup
- Jeju Stadium or Sports activities Complicated
- Seogwipo Downtown
- Pageant Date: (TBC) March 24 to April 12
Finest Excursions in South Korea?
Come and take a look at this record of the high issues to do in South Korea which options the very best actions and excursions to do in locations like Seoul, Busan and extra!
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South KoreaTravel Information
» Finest Time to Go to
Any time and any season! Regardless of if it’s spring, summer season, autumn, or winter, South Korea has a ton of locations and actions to replenish your itinerary! However if you wish to keep away from the height seasons, you need to go to both throughout autumn or winter. Why not summer season? It’s when colleges and Korean corporations take a trip so plenty of locals might be up and about; and naturally, spring is extraordinarily well-liked due to the cherry blossom season.
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» Getting in to South Korea
By air. Worldwide guests usually arrive on the essential airport referred to as Incheon Worldwide Airport (ICN). To get right here, I like to recommend searching by way of Skyscanner to search out the very best flight offers out of your level of origin.
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» Visa for South Korea
Should you’re NOT a citizen of any of South Korea’s exempted international locations, you’re then required to avail of a visa beforehand. (Should you’re from the Philippines, you possibly can learn my information on the best way to get a South Korea visa in Manila right here.)
- Verify full visa necessities right here as per your nationality.
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» The place to Keep (South Korea Lodging)
To seek for the very best resort lodging in South Korea at the very best costs, I counsel cross-checking resort costs between Agoda and Reserving.com. However for those who’re relatively taken with renting comfy homes or flats, you need to search by way of AirBnB.
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» South Korea Forex
South Korean Received (KRW / ₩) whereby KRW 1,000 is the same as about USD $0.9~, €0.7~ or Php 49.00~ (that is as of March 2023). Within the occasion that you simply wish to change your cash for KRW, I extremely advise that you simply do NOT change your cash on the airport because the charges there usually are not aggressive.
- The right way to finest change your forex? Both change your cash at a financial institution or at a cash exchanger in your house nation or in Seoul’s metropolis heart. Higher but, simply withdraw from an ATM together with your debit/bank card (do one huge withdrawal to attenuate charges together with your financial institution). Talking of playing cards, plenty of Seoul’s institutions settle for bank cards nevertheless it’s all the time advisable to have money readily available.
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» Price of Journey in Korea
Whereas the price of dwelling in South Korea is way from being low-cost, your journey doesn’t have to interrupt the financial institution! To provide you an concept, you need to anticipate to journey in South Korea with a mean every day price of about USD $35~ per individual on a price range, or a minimum of $100~ if you wish to expertise extra consolation on actions, excursions, motels, and extra. (Values under present low price range to medium price range ranges).
- Inns: $20 to $100 USD / day
- Meals: $10 to $30 USD / day
- Enjoyable: $10 to $25 USD / day
- Transport: About US$1 per subway trip*
*Purchase a T-Cash card that saves you ₩100 on all journeys.
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» The right way to Get Round South Korea
By aircraft. South Korea has an incredible community of home flights that can take you, as an example, from Seoul to Busan, Jeju, Daegu, and so forth., and vice versa. Some airways that function these routes are Asiana and Korean Air in addition to low-cost ones like Air Busan and Jeju Air. To search for the very best flight offers, all the time e-book by way of Skyscanner.
By practice. Quite a lot of the most important cities in South Korea are linked by the nationwide practice operator referred to as Korail. As a foreigner, you possibly can reap the benefits of the KR Cross that grants you limitless journey on any Korail Practice for two, 3, 4 or 5 days.
In the meantime, whenever you’re mapping out your day-to-day route, simply use Google Maps as a result of it would present intimately the quickest connections you are able to do (by strolling, by automobile, by bus, and by practice).
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» Staying Related in South Korea
South Korea is alleged to have the quickest web on the earth (and yep, it’s true!) so that you’ll be assured of nice connection wherever you go. So as to add, most locations even provide FREE WiFi — however so as to constantly keep linked on-line throughout your Seoul journey, I like to recommend getting your personal pocket WiFi or SIM Card.
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» Security in South Korea
The Republic of Korea or South Korea stays to be one of many most secure international locations on the earth — and in addition one of many most secure international locations for solo feminine vacationers. Petty theft could occur however they’re fairly uncommon; so, simply follow widespread sense always and also you’ll be high quality!
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» Useful Korean Phrases
English shouldn’t be extensively spoken in South Korea even whether it is taught in plenty of colleges, however you’ll have higher luck within the capital of Seoul the place lots of people put time, effort and cash in studying English. Nonetheless, it doesn’t harm to study a little bit of the native language!
Howdy (formal): Annyeong haseyo
Howdy (casual): Annyeong
Thanks: Gamsahamnida
You’re welcome: Cheonmanyeyo
Sure: Ye/Ne
No: Aniyo
Goodbye (to individual leaving): Annyeonghi gaseyo
Goodbye (to individual staying): Annyeonghi gyeseyo
Goodbye (casual): Annyeong
Excuse me (getting consideration): Sillyehamnida
I’m sorry: Joesonghamnida
Is there somebody right here who speaks English?: Yeogi-e yeong-eoreul hasineun bun gyesimnikka?
Assist!: Dowajusipsio!
Cheers!: Geonbae!
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Total
Witnessing South Korea cherry blossoms of their full bloom is really a singular expertise!
So don’t neglect to make use of this text as your information to the place you possibly can finest respect their magnificence.
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