Other than Japan‘s sakura craze, South Korea cherry blossom season can also be a sought-after occasion in Asia — particularly as a result of it may be fairly quick! As such, this is without doubt one of the greatest instances 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 try 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 information 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’ll be able to already use this preliminary forecast as a preliminary information. Relaxation assured, I’ll preserve 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, particularly, has blooms that come somewhat 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. Apart from, 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 often known as ‘King Cherry’ originated from Jeju Island and it barely differs from most different cherry blossom bushes as a consequence of the truth that its flowers are bigger. Additionally they solely bloom in full for less than a few days!
All in all, in the event you’re planning a visit to South Korea any time quickly, it’s best to pay attention to these high locations from ALL of the areas within the nation that gives you stunning cherry blossom views, in addition to an opportunity to take part in bustling cherry blossom festivals!
Greatest South Korea Cherry Blossom Spots
Different South Korean blooms to be careful for?
See this listing of the most well-liked spring flowers in Korea — when to see them and the place to go!
South Korea has 9 (9) provinces, particularly: 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 all the way down to solely six (6) to be able to higher see the highest South Korea cherry blossom spots that you will need to see everywhere in 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 will need to see for viewing South Korea cherry blossom bushes. To call just a few, they’re…
- Yeouido Park: This is without doubt one of the hottest locations to see cherry blossoms in Seoul and it even has its personal competition referred to as Yeouido Cherry Blossom Competition or Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Competition. 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 need to witness the fantastic thing about these cherry bushes. On account of its recognition, quite a lot of distributors, road performances, and outside leisure may even be unfold across the park. At night time, Yeouido Park even transforms right into a magical setting when the cherry blossom bushes are lit in varied coloured lights.
- Competition Date: (TBC) April 6 to fifteen
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- Competition Date: (TBC) April 6 to fifteen
- Seokchon Lake: Discovered within the japanese a part of town, this standard spot is beautiful all-year-round — however it’s further particular throughout spring when it’s surrounded with colourful cherry bushes. For those who’re visiting the close by Lotte World Amusement Park, that is absolutely a cease that you will need to make! Except for cherry blossom viewing, different actions right here embody piano on the lake, cherry blossom market, and varied performances.
. - Seoul Grand Park: This park is stuffed with nice surprises on condition that it supplies entry to each cherry blossoms viewing and an amusement park that contains 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 get pleasure from stay performances of types.
- Competition Date: (TBC) April 8 to 17
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- Competition Date: (TBC) April 8 to 17
- Seoul Forest: (Pictured Above) This can be a preferred 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 midst 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. For those who ask me, that is the proper 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 spite of everything, 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 ravishing Seoul campus made much more attractive in the course of the cherry blossom season! It’s thought-about a hidden spot for cherry blossom viewing in Seoul the place the sunshine pink cherry blossoms give a fantastic backdrop of the structure. You’ll truly 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 preferred cherry blossom viewing spot amongst locals. You can too get pleasure from 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 reminiscent of Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Changgyeonggung. With its distinctive architectural design, it’s an absolute should to take pictures in these spots whereas sporting a hanbok rental, or the standard 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. Situated on the western facet of town, this can be a hidden attraction the place not quite a lot of vacationers crowd in — thus, making it a perfect place for viewing and photograph ops. Anyang Stream can also be dwelling to some stunning surrounding flower fields and gardens that add extra magnificence to the place.
. - Yangjaecheon Stream: That is thought-about yet one more hidden spot for South Korea cherry blossom viewing. The locals normally go to this place to see the attractive spring flowers and benefit from the native Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom and Lantern.
- Competition Date: (TBC) April 5 to 9
◘◘ Gyeonggi
(April 5 to 11)
- Nami Island: This crescent-shaped island is without doubt one of the hottest day journeys from Seoul on condition that the entire of the world is roofed in varied bushes that cycle fantastically by 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 mates alike. Other than viewing the encompassing nature, you too can get pleasure from plenty of actions right here reminiscent of renting a motorbike, zip-lining, procuring, 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 — in reality, the county of Pyeongchang has been a number website 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 Competition: In Gangneung, Gyeongpo is well-known for its pure sights (e.g. seashores and lakes) and festivals; certainly one of which is the Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Competition. For the perfect spots to view these South Korea cherry blossoms and luxuriate in competition actions, they’re:
- Gyeongpodae Pavilion: This is without doubt one of the 8 scenic websites in Gwangdong that’s situated 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 reminiscent of 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.
- Competition 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 Competition: 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. Throughout the competition, guests can get pleasure from 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.
- Competition Date: (TBC) April 6 to eight
◘◘ Daejeon
(March 27 to April 2)
- Town of Daejeon won’t be on most vacationers’ must-see lists — however it ought to be! In spite of everything, it has a number of wonderful South Korea cherry blossom viewing spots, particularly…
- Gyeryong Mountain or Nationwide Park: Discovered inside this space is the Donghaksa Temple and the environment have a powerful show of pink bushes that you’ll love taking footage in! There’s additionally a competition that’s being held for this location however it isn’t 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 perfect 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 also be divided into two provinces: North Gyeongsang (capital: Daegu) and South Gyeongsang (capital: Changwon) — and it’s on this latter province the place you will see that the big cities of Busan and Ulsan.
◘◘ Changwon
(March 23 to 30)
- Jinhae Gunhangje Competition: It’s usually 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 normally held on the Jinhae Jungwon Rotary Intersection and you will see that plenty of artwork and cultural performances which might be unfold about within the venue (reminiscent of in Paldo Pungmul Market). Different key areas are…
- Gyeonghwa Station: There’s an 800-meter part of flowers on this railroad which you could 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 try to look forward to a prepare to cross by so as to get such an iconic image.
- Jehwangsan Mountain Park: In order for you a panoramic view of town in its pink glory, head over to this spot.
- Competition Date: (TBC) March 30 to April 6
◘◘ Gyeongju
(March 24 to 31)
- Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Competition: This competition was first held in 2017 and it coincided with the twenty sixth Cherry Blossom Marathon that town is well-known for (and which you’ll be able to be a part of in the event you’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 cross the time away within the lake, you’ll be able to get pleasure from the next…
- Waterwheel Sq.: A well-liked photograph zone the place yow will discover an enormous waterwheel on a path.
- Bomun Pavilion (Bomunjeong): A ravishing pavilion that may be a favourite of quite a lot of photographers.
- Pedal a duck boat: Share this expertise with somebody by heading over to Hoban Sq. and paying for a duck boat! (For those who’re not eager, you too can lease a motorbike).
- Competition Date: (TBC) March 30 to April 8
- Bomun Lake: About 9,000 cherry bushes across the lake will stunningly bloom and as you cross the time away within the lake, you’ll be able to get pleasure from the next…
◘◘ Hadong/Jirisan
(March 22 to 29)
- Hwagae Cherry Blossoms Competition: Held in Simni Cherry Blossom Highway, this 4-kilometer highway connecting Ssanggyesa Temple and Hwagaejangeo Market is stuffed with over 1,200 cherry blossom bushes and quite a lot 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: This can be a densely-packed highway stuffed with cherry bushes and it even has a nickname “Hollye-gil” which implies ‘Marriage Highway’ or ‘Wedding ceremony Highway’. There’s a native perception that in the event you and the one you love stroll on this highway collectively, you’ll ultimately marry and stay fortunately ever after. Who is aware of if it’s true, however it’s price a shot, proper? -wink-
- Competition 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 type a tunnel over the park’s path. With this characteristic, it has simply develop into one of many topmost stunning spots in South Korea!
- Dalmaji Hill (Haeundae-gu): Discovered southeast of Haeundae Seaside, that is usually known as a romantic vacation spot the place {couples} hang around throughout spring.
- Oncheoncheon Stream (Dongnae-gu): Operating by two districts of Dongnae and Yeonje, this riverside walkway is fondly referred to as a ‘flower highway’ and it’s a type of iconic spots that you just usually see in pictures of South Korea. The stream spans 10 kilometers lengthy and the stream itself is usually adorned in colourful umbrellas.
- Samik Seaside Condo (Suyeong-gu): Discovered close to Gwanganli Seaside is a favourite of locals which is the Cherry Blossom Highway — a protracted stretch of previous cherry bushes that overlook the Gwangan Bridge. You can too try 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 worthwhile to embody in your South Korea itinerary, it’s to…
◘◘ Gwangju
(March 22 to twenty-eight)
- Seomjin River Cherry Blossom Competition: 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 highway that’s speckled with different colourful mixes of flowers is known as one of many ‘100 Most Lovely Roads in Korea’. Through the competition, you’ll discover a wide range 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 in the event you’re ever within the Jeolla area!
- Competition Date: (TBC) Late March or Early April
– – –
» 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 just time your go to right here effectively. Throughout the entire of the competition, don’t additionally overlook to drop by these most important areas each night time and day (since they usually 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
- Competition Date: (TBC) March 24 to April 12
Greatest Excursions in South Korea?
Come and take a look at this listing of the high issues to do in South Korea which options the perfect actions and excursions to do in locations like Seoul, Busan and extra!
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South KoreaTravel Information
» Greatest Time to Go to
Any time and any season! Regardless of if it’s spring, summer time, 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, it’s best to go to both throughout autumn or winter. Why not summer time? It’s when colleges and Korean firms take a trip so quite a lot of locals might be up and about; and naturally, spring is extraordinarily standard due to the cherry blossom season.
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» Getting in to South Korea
By air. Worldwide guests usually arrive on the most important airport referred to as Incheon Worldwide Airport (ICN). To get right here, I like to recommend shopping by Skyscanner to seek out the perfect flight offers out of your level of origin.
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» Visa for South Korea
For those who’re NOT a citizen of any of South Korea’s exempted nations, you’re then required to avail of a visa beforehand. (For those who’re from the Philippines, you’ll be able to learn my information on methods 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 perfect lodge lodging in South Korea at the perfect costs, I recommend cross-checking lodge costs between Agoda and Reserving.com. However in the event you’re fairly occupied with renting comfy homes or flats, it’s best to search by 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 just need to trade your cash for KRW, I extremely advise that you just do NOT trade your cash on the airport because the charges there are usually not aggressive.
- Tips on how to greatest trade your foreign money? Both trade 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 large withdrawal to attenuate charges together with your financial institution). Talking of playing cards, quite a lot of Seoul’s institutions settle for bank cards however 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 much from being low-cost, your journey doesn’t have to interrupt the financial institution! To provide you an concept, it’s best to count on to journey in South Korea with a median every day value of about USD $35~ per particular person on a price range, or not less than $100~ if you wish to expertise extra consolation on actions, excursions, motels, and extra. (Values beneath present low price range to medium price range ranges).
- Resorts: $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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» Tips on how to Get Round South Korea
By aircraft. South Korea has an incredible community of home flights that can take you, for 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 perfect flight offers, all the time ebook by Skyscanner.
By prepare. A variety of the most important cities in South Korea are related by the nationwide prepare operator referred to as Korail. As a foreigner, you’ll be able to benefit from the KR Cross that grants you limitless journey on any Korail Practice for two, 3, 4 or 5 days.
In the meantime, if you’re mapping out your day-to-day route, simply use Google Maps as a result of it’ll present intimately the quickest connections you are able to do (by strolling, by automotive, by bus, and by prepare).
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» Staying Related in South Korea
South Korea is alleged to have the quickest web on the planet (and yep, it’s true!) so that you’ll be assured of nice connection wherever you go. So as to add, most locations even supply FREE WiFi — however so as to constantly keep related 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 nations on the planet — and likewise one of many most secure nations for solo feminine vacationers. Petty theft might occur however they’re fairly uncommon; so, simply apply widespread sense always and also you’ll be wonderful!
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» Useful Korean Phrases
English isn’t broadly spoken in South Korea even whether it is taught in quite a lot 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. However, it doesn’t damage to be taught a little bit of the native language!
Good day (formal): Annyeong haseyo
Good day (casual): Annyeong
Thanks: Gamsahamnida
You’re welcome: Cheonmanyeyo
Sure: Ye/Ne
No: Aniyo
Goodbye (to particular person leaving): Annyeonghi gaseyo
Goodbye (to particular person 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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General
Witnessing South Korea cherry blossoms of their full bloom is actually a novel expertise!
So don’t overlook to make use of this text as your information to the place you’ll be able to greatest admire their magnificence.
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