2025 Cherry Blossoms in Korea Forecast | Best Festivals in Seoul, Jinhae, Busan and More

The annual appearance of cherry blossoms in Korea is the most eagerly anticipated spring event of the year. It’s something you absolutely don’t want to miss.

Cherry blossom season in Korea is peak travel time.

This wave of fairy tale gorgeousness sweeps its way up the country, starting from Jeju Island and making its way up to Seoul, transforming the mundane greys of winter into a silvery pink wonderland, along the way.

Cherry blossoms in Korea make the whole season feel fresh, optimistic and ripe with possibility.

Seeing the cherry blossoms in Korea is a must-do spring activity

After experiencing cherry blossoms in Korea myself for the last 14 years, I’ve got some tips to share with you. I’ll fill you in on:

• the best time to see Korean cherry blossoms
• the top places and most famous festivals to see cherry blossoms in Seoul and beyond
• my personal tips for how to catch cherry blossoms in Korea at their absolute peak

Cherry Blossoms in Korea | 벚꽃

While Japan has sakura and hanami, South Korea has beot-kkot (벗꽃) and a full calendar of incredible cherry blossom festivals to enjoy across the country in 2025.

Cherry blossom season is peak travel time in Korea for good reason.

Millions of tourists flock to Korea from all over the world, just for the chance to enjoy cherry blossoms in spring – making it one of the peak travel seasons of the year. Hotel rooms are in short supply in Seoul these days, so be sure to book your accommodation well in advance for more choice and better prices.

Korea Cherry Blossoms 2025 Forecast Quick Guide

When is Cherry Blossom Season in Korea?

Spring seems to be arriving earlier and earlier with each passing year, and spring flowers are following suit. Generally speaking, cherry blossoms in Korea appear in mid to late-March and last until mid-April.

It all depends on the weather. From bud to bloom to dramatic death, the whole Korean cherry blossom season lasts a month at best… if we’re lucky.

Cherry blossom season in Korea seems to get shorter and shorter every year.

When you’re planning your travels to South Korea, remember that cherry blossoms bloom from south to north.

If you’re arriving in late March, start your cherry blossom explorations on Jeju Island and in southern areas like Busan and Jinhae. After that, head north though places like Jeonju and Gyeongju, before ending in Seoul and the mountainous regions around Chuncheon.

In March and April, you can see cherry blossoms in Korea

Keep in mind that the changing global climate is having a major impact on the blooming dates of cherry blossoms in Korea.

A few years ago, cherry blossoms peaked incredibly early, and fell to the ground a lot faster than expected. And last year was one of the best cherry blossom seasons I’ve experienced during my 14 years of living in Seoul.

READ NEXT: 15 Excellent Places to Stay in Myeongdong | Seoul’s Most Convenient Neighbourhood

When will cherry blossoms bloom in Korea in 2025?

It’s impossible to predict EXACTLY when the cherry blossoms in South Korea will appear with 100% certainty, but it doesn’t stop people from trying!

The official 2025 cherry blossom forecast was just released, with weatheri predicting that cherry blossoms in Korea will bloom 3 to 8 days earlier than usual.

Cherry blossom forecasting is a national obsession.

2025 Korea Cherry Blossom Forecast by Region

In 2025, the first cherry blossoms in Korea are forecast to appear in Seogwipo (Jeju) on March 22nd, in Busan on March 23rd, and in Seoul on April 1st. Full bloom is expected about a week after the initial bloom dates.

• Jeju Island (Seogwipo, Jeju City): March 22nd to March 29th
• Southern Areas (Busan, Jinhae, Daegu): March 23rd to April 1st
• Central Region (Seoul, Daejeon): March 29th to April 8th
• Northern, Mountainous and Coastal Areas (Incheon, Chuncheon): March 31st – April 11th

After the cherry blossoms in Korea have peaked, you can expect a stunning flower shower and a pretty carpet of pink petals beneath your feet.

A carpet of fallen cherry blossom petals.

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Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Korea

Keep in mind that cherry blossoms in Korea will appear where it’s warmest first, so head to Jeju, Busan, or anywhere on the south end of the Peninsula, if you’re visiting near the end of March or very beginning of April. Any time after that, head north.

I dare you to resist falling in love with the cherry blossoms that take over Korea in April.

If you can’t make it to Korea in the first week of April, head to the northeastern coastal regions, which are usually a lot cooler than the interior of the country. The Eden Cherry Blossom Festival in Gapyeong is a good option to check out, if you’re arriving in Korea a bit later on in April.

And if you’re arriving after mid-April, search out king cherry blossoms which are pinker, bloom later, and are completely stunning in their own way.

King cherry blossoms bloom later © Yang Sungyoung, Korea Tourism Organization

READ NEXT: Visiting Korea in March | Weather, Best Festivals + Packing List

Best Cherry Blossom Festivals in Korea 2025

Some cherry blossom festival dates in Korea have been released, but they’re mostly not finalized. Everything is still subject to change, based on weather conditions. However, in 2025, most, if not all of these festivals will take place in the last week of March, and end my mid-April.

Cherry blossoms in Korea can be found all over © Jang Ha-na, Korea Tourism Organization

They have for every single year I’ve lived in Korea, so it’s unlikely that this will change. The cherry blossom festivals in Korea usually run for a 2 to 7 day span, including at least 1 weekend to accommodate as many visitors as possible.

That doesn’t mean you can’t head to these cherry blossom locations outside of festival dates. Of course you can! It just means there won’t be extra activities on offer, and you’ll have to focus solely on the beauty of the cherry blossoms in Korea themselves… maybe even without the crowds.

There are cherry blossoms in Korea every which way you turn.

I’ve updated cherry blossom festival dates for 2025 wherever possible. Keep checking back though, as I’ll continue to update as more information is released.

READ NEXT: Visiting Korea in April | Weather, Best Festivals + Packing List

2025 Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival | 진해군항제

Festival Dates: March 29th – April 6th, 2025

Address: Gyeongsangnam-do, Changwon-si, Jinhae-gu, Tongsin-dong | 경상남도 창원시 진해구 통신동

The Jinhae Gunhangje Festival was back in a big way last year, and the tradition promises to continue! This is the largest, most famous cherry blossom festival in Korea, with over 4 million visitors attending last year alone.

There’s good reason. Jinhae offers scenes of the most impossibly romantic cherry blossoms in Korea.

This is just ridiculously beautiful ⓒ Live Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

You can gaze at pale pink petals as they drift sentimentally down onto the train tracks of Gyeonghwa Station, or snap a pic at one of the most iconic spots to see cherry blossoms in Korea – the tunnel of cherry trees atop Jinhae’s Yeojwacheon Stream.

This spot in Jinhae is one of the most photographed cherry blossom locations in Korea © Park Seonggeun, Korea Tourism Organization

Expanded to include more experiences from Changwon’s defence industry, you can also expect a huge military parade, Black Eagles air show, multi-media fireworks, food markets, and musical entertainment during the festival.

I checked out Jinhae during cherry blossom season a few years ago, and I personally haven’t seen a more stunning concentration of cherry blossom trees than at Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae. Their beauty was mind-boggling!

The concentration of cherry blossoms at Gyeonghwa Station is incredible.

The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, is one of my 5 most breathtaking spots to see cherry blossoms in Korea at their absolute peak.

Unless you have a car, I recommend joining a day tour to this festival, because it costs practically the same as traveling to Jinhae using public transit. It’s faster and a whole lot more convenient. You’ll arrive fresh and ready to conquer all that fluffy pinkness.

Jinhae is one of the best and biggest cherry blossom festivals in Korea.

To break it down, a one-way express bus ticket from Seoul to Masan costs 35,000 won, but then you still have to get to Jinhae and handle local transport around the festival yourself.

Cherry blossom hotspots in Jinhae are pretty spread out, so this is definitely the most affordable and convenient option.

Jinhae Gunhangje is one of Korea’s biggest spring festivals.

If you prefer to customize your own itinerary, you can book a private sightseeing tour to the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival from Busan, for a group of 2 to 15 people.

2025 Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival | 석촌호수 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: April 2nd – 6th, 2025

Address: 47 Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 송파구 잠실동 47

The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival in Korea is near and dear to my heart, because it’s the one I never miss. Sure, part of it is because Seokchon Lake is walking distance from my house, but it’s also because it’s incredibly gorgeous.

The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival takes place every April

Directions: Jamsil subway, Exit 1 or 2. Seokchon Lake is directly behind the Lotte World Mall.

2025 Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival | 영등포 여의도 봄꽃축제

FESTIVAL DATES: April 2nd – 6th, 2025 (start date pushed to April 8th, 2025)

Address: Yeouiseo-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 영등포구 여의서로

Yeouido is perhaps the best, albeit one of the most crowded places in Seoul to see not just cherry blossoms in Korea, but also azaleas, forsythia, and other spring flowers in full bloom. With 1,400 to 1,600 trees in the park, you’re guaranteed a stunning and dramatic sight.

New, old and pretty pink flowers in Yeouido © twobrownfeet.com

Directions: The closest subway station is the National Assembly Station on Line 9. Take Exit 1 or 6 and walk for 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can get off at Yeouinaru Station on Line 5, take Exit 1 and walk for 20 minutes.

2025 Nami Island Friendship Blossoms Party | 남이섬 벚꽃축제

FESTIVAL DATES: 2025 TBA, April 6th – 21st last year

Address: 1, Namiseom-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do | 경기도 가평군 가평읍 북한강변로 1024

Nami Island is technically in Gangwon-do, but it’s just on the border, and very close to Seoul. This is one of the most popular day trips from the city, with good reason. In spring, this fairytale island in Chuncheon is covered with stunning cherry blossom trees and romantic vibes.

Nami Island is one of the most popular day trips from Seoul © Jeon Hyeongjun, Korea Tourism Organization

2025 Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom & Lantern Festival | 양재천 벚꽃길

FESTIVAL DATES: 2025 TBA, March 29th – April 28th last year

Address: 504-11 Daechi 1-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 강남구 대치1동 504-11

Yangjaecheon Stream is lined with magnificent cherry trees which are backlit by street lamps at night. The atmosphere is wonderfully romantic, and it’s common to see young couples walking hand in hand, admiring the cherry blossoms in Korea by moonlight.

The walking path next to Yangjaecheon Stream cherry blossom path is gorgeous both day and night

The Yangjaecheon Stream cherry blossom and lantern festival is held for nearly an entire month during spring, If you want to see these magnificent cherry blossoms in Korea, time your visit for the first week in April.

2025 Seoul Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival | 서울대공원 벚꽃축제

FESTIVAL DATES: 2025 TBA, April 5th – 7th last year

Address: 102, Daegongwongwangjang-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 과천시 대공원광장로 102

Don’t confuse this with Seoul Children’s Grand Park, which is located north of the Hangang in Gwangjin-gu. THIS Seoul Grand Park has a huge zoo, amusement park, botanical garden, camping AND incredible cherry blossom trees in Korea to check out.

Cherry blossoms at Seoul Grand Park are stunning ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

2025 Eden Cherry Blossom Road Festival | 에덴벚꽃길 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: 2025 TBA, April 6th – 14th last year

Address: 139 Edenbeotkkot-gil, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 가평군 청평면 에덴벚꽃길 139

If you’re getting to Korea a bit later in April, the Eden Cherry Blossom Road Festival is the one you’ll want to get to. Located in the cooler Gapyeong region, it’s usually one of the very last cherry blossom festivals in Korea.

This is one of the last cherry blossom festivals in Korea © Olive Star

Fortunately, it delivers, with a 1.2-km long cherry blossom tunnel, performances and a food market. One of the best things about this festival is that they upload daily updates of the tree status, so you know whether it’s worth making the trip or not.

2025 Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival | 제주 왕벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: 2025 TBA, March 22nd – 24th last year

Address: 24, Seogwang-ro 2-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do

Cherry blossoms in Korea bloom earliest on Jeju Island, along with vibrant fields of yellow canola. The best places for cherry blossom viewing are spread all over the island, so it’s wise to join a tour, or book a private taxi or van tour, to avoid wasting time. Public transport can be pretty slow on Jeju Island, since it’s so big.

Cherry blossoms bloom earliest in in Korea on Jeju Island. © Kim Gwang-je, Korea Tourism Organization

If you’re visiting Jeju, you might be able to see grandest cherry blossoms of them all – the King Cherry blossoms.

Best seen all over Seogwipo’s downtown and around Jeju Sports Complex, these cherry blossoms in Korea fully bloom for only 2 to 3 days. They are more fleeting than normal… it that’s even possible. You’ll have to be perfect with your timing to catch them!

2025 Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon and Festival | 경주벚꽃마라톤

Festival Dates: Cherry Blossom Marathon: April 5th, 2025 | Cherry Blossom Festival: 2025 TBA 

Address: 593, Gyeonggam-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do | 경상북도 경주시 경감로 593

If you’d like to run under a sea of falling cherry blossom petals in Korea, you can take part in the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon. Beginning at Gyeongju Culture Expo Square, the mostly flat course, can be run in 5km, 10km, half or full marathon distances.

The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon takes place every April in Korea.

If you have time, I recommend staying in Gyeongju for 2 or 3 days. This is a wonderfully laid back city, full of UNESCO sites. I learned about Korea’s Silla Dynasty and ate as much ssambap as I could.

This small city is considered Korea’s “museum without walls,” and it’s well worth a visit.

Ssambap is a must-eat when visiting Gyeongju, Korea

If you do decide to spend a couple of days exploring this chilled out city, I can’t recommend staying at the Apple House enough. I stayed in this little motel on my last visit there, and it’s definitely one of the best budget accommodations I’ve stayed in the country.

Like most Korean motels, the interior design can be called interesting at best, but in terms of value and convenience, it really can’t be beat.

It’s walking distance to a ton of major tourist sites, as well as trendy cafe and restaurant street Hwangnidan-gil, plus you actually get big bath towels there. BIG bath towels. In Korea! Imagine.

2025 Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival | 화개장터 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: March 28th – 30th, 2025

Address: Maekjeon-gil, Hadong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do | 경상남도 하동군 화개면 맥전길

The Simni Cherry Blossom Road’ in Hwagae consists of 200 peach trees and 1,200 cherry blossom trees, which were planted by villagers back in 1931. It’s believed that if you walk down this 4km cherry blossom lined road in Korea, with your partner, while holding hands, you’ll fall madly and deeply in love with each other forever.

Fall madly in love on the 10ri Cherry Blossom Road in Hwagae ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

At the festival, aside from seeing cherry blossoms in Korea, you can visit the historic Hwagae Market, and dine on traditional foods like Euneo-hoe (sliced raw sweetish) and Chamgyetang (king crab broth). Yum!

I checked out the Simni Cherry Blossom Road last year, and all I can say is WOW. It is simply unbelievable – easily one of the best cherry blossoms spots in Korea.

The stunning Hwagae 10-ri cherry blossom road in Hadong.

Directions: Take an intercity bus from Seoul’s Nambu Bus Terminal, to Hadong (하동). Buses run at: 06:30, 08:00, 09:30, 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:30, 19:30 and 22:00.

2025 Samnak Cherry Blossom Festival | 삼락 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: 2025 TBA, March 31st – April 2nd last year

Address: Samnak Eco Park, Sasang-gu, Busan

At the Samnak Cherry Blossom Festival in Busan, you can walk through an incredible 12-km tunnel of stunning pink flowers in full bloom.

With over 3,000 cherry trees lining the Nakdonggang Riverside at Samnak Eco Park, this is undoubtedly one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Busan.

You can also search out this scene at Hwangnyeongsan Mountain while in Busan © Dionitius Jonathan, (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Directions: 16 minute walk from Gwaebeop Renecite Station, Exit 1

2025 Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival | 경포대 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: 2025 TBA, April 5th – 10th last year

Address: 365, Gyeongpo-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do

A string of cherry blossom trees line the 4.3 kilometre path that surrounds gorgeous Gyeongpo Lake. Activities and flower exhibitions centre around Gyeongpodae Pavilion, one of Korea’s regional tangible cultural treasures, but there are blooms to be found all around the Lake.

Gyeongpodae is simply stunning ⓒ Gangwon Office, Korea Tourism Office

If, for some strange reason, you get overwhelmed by all the effervescent pinkness of cherry blossoms in Korea, you can take the short stroll over to Gyeongpo Beach, one of my very favourite escapes from Seoul. Drink in the view of the 4 kilometre stretch of sandy beach, and indulge in fresher than fresh seafood from one of the restaurants that lines the street facing the sea.

Directions: From Gangneung Intercity/Express Bus Terminal, take Bus 202 and get off at Gyeongpodae.

Gyeryongsan Cherry Blossom Festival | 계룡산벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: 2025 TBA, but usually early April

Address: 327-6, Donghaksa 1-ro, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 공주시 반포면 동학사1로 327-6

At the Gyeryongsan Cherry Blossom Festival in Gongju, you can see stunning Yoshino cherry blossoms that are unique to the area. Check out the areas around Donghaksa, Sinwonsa, and Gapsa Temples, which are famous for their cherry tree colonies.

Sinwonsa Temple is stunning in spring © Yu Yu-sun, Korea Tourism Organization

READ NEXT: Gongju Travel Guide | 11 Things to do in this Gem of the Baekje Kingdom

 2025 Cheongpung Lake Cherry Blossom Festival | 청풍호벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: 2025 TBA, March 27th – April 7th last year

Address: 2048, Cheongpungho-ro, Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do | 충청북도 제천시 청풍면 청풍호로 2048 (청풍면)

Taking place along the 13 kilometre Cheongpong Lake Road, at this festival, you can see thousands of cherry blossoms in Korea on mature trees, a street concert, magic show and parade. Medicinal teas and food made from wild herbs native to the area will be on offer, and if you’re really brave, you can even bunjee jump!

See thousands of cherry trees at Cheongpung Lake © Live Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

Directions: Take an intercity bus to Jecheon Terminal. From Dong Seoul Terminal, the bus leaves at 10 – 30 minute intervals, starting at 6:30 in the morning. The last bus leaves at 21:00.

Limited Edition Spring Tours in Korea

When plum blossoms in Gwangyang Maehwa Village and Sansuyu in Gurye burst into bloom in mid-March, cherry blossoms in Korea are not far behind. Like cherry blossom season, the dates for most of these tours is incredibly limited. Most run for just a few short weeks!

Sansuyu are one of the first spring flowers to bloom in Korea.

• Gwangyang Maehwa & Jeonju Hanok Village Tour | March 10th – 21st, 2025
• Spring Flowers + King Cherry Blossoms at Hwaseong Fortress | March 18th – April 24th, 2025
• Jeonju Hanok Village + Spring Flower Festivals | March 18th – April 25th, 2025
• Seoul Seasonal Hot Attractions Tour | March 18th – May 13th, 2025
• Jeju Island Package: Flight, Private Tour + Hotel Option | March 20th – April 10th, 2025
• Jeju Island Cherry Blossoms and Canola Private Taxi or Van Tour | March 20th – April 10th, 2025
• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Tour from Seoul or Busan | March 22nd – April 6th, 2025
• Haeundae Sky Capsule + Cherry Blossom Hunting in Busan | March 25th – April 7th, 2025
• Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Tour from Busan | March 28th – April 7th, 2025
• Chasing Cherry Blossoms in Seoul | April 2nd – April 13th, 2025
• Taean Tulip Festival + Strawberry Picking Experience | April 11th – May 4th, 2025
• King Cherry Blossom Tour from Seoul | April 14th – 24th, 2025

Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae is simply stunning.

Where are the best places to see cherry blossoms in Korea?

There are literally cherry blossoms EVERYWHERE you turn in Korea, but there are some places that are just so extraordinarily beautiful, they still leave me speechless, after 14 years.

I’ll cover details of where you can see cherry blossoms in Seoul, Incheon, Busan, and further afield, but first here are 5 of the best pink spots I’ve personally seen over the years.

I still look forward to cherry blossom season – even after 14 years.

The cherry blossoms in Korea that blew me away were located at:

• Chimsanjeong Pavilion in Daegu
• Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae
• Hwagae 10-ri Cherry Blossom Road in Hadong
• Seomjingang Cherry Blossom Trail in Gurye
• Seokchon Lake in Seoul

Enjoying the cherry blossoms in Hadong with my favourite person… and My Melody.

I’ve written a full guide to these hotspots, with info about when to go, where to stay, and the best transport options, so be sure to check that out if you’re on a serious cherry blossom hunt in Korea, and willing to travel. They’re mostly not in Seoul.

Top Places for Cherry Blossoms in Seoul and Beyond

The Seoul Capital Region of Seoul special city, Gyeonggi-do Province and Incheon will likely be home base for most travelers to see cherry blossoms in Korea. I’ll let you know about some of the best places to do just that, before moving onto places that are a bit further afield.

All of Seoul is covered in cherry blossoms in April.

If you didn’t already know – Gyeonggi-do and Incheon are the satellite areas connected to Seoul. Though they’re separate regions with unique governments, they’re all connected to each other by subway and buses, so it’s super easy to explore.

The major cherry blossom festivals around the country that I talked about earlier are obviously some of the top spots in Korea, but in this section, I’ll cover pretty pink areas and blossom lined streets.

Gorgeous cherry blossom tree-lined streets are everywhere in Korea!

READ NEXT: The 7 Best Areas to Stay in Seoul + Hotel Recommendations and Things to Do

Seoul’s Royal Palaces

Address: Jongno area

The Joseon era royal palaces in Seoul are lovely under any circumstance, but when they’re blooming with delicate pink petals during cherry blossom season in Korea, they’re beyond magnificent.

Changgyeonggung Palace is stunning in spring ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung and its Secret Garden might be the most visited palaces in Seoul, but Changgyeonggung has the highest concentration of cherry blossoms at a palace in the city.

If you rent a hanbok in Seoul for a romantic photo shoot under the cherry blossoms, you can enter all the palaces for free!

Cherry blossoms at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul.

Namsan Park | 남산공원

Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 중구 삼일대로 231

This is the longest cherry blossom trail in Seoul. It winds from the base of the mountain, all the way up to the North Seoul Tower.

Enjoy an easy hike to the top of the mountain, hang a love lock, and enjoy gorgeous views of Seoul’s cityscape.

Cherry blossoms at Namsan Park ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

Bongeunsa Temple | 봉은사

Address: 531, Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 강남구 봉은사로 531

Bongeunsa is a wonderful place to see cherry blossoms in Korea. Located in Gangnam, right across the street from Starfield Coex Mall, Bongeunsa Temple is the perfect, peaceful respite from the frenetic pace of life in the big city.

See gorgeous cherry blossoms in Korea at Bongeunsa Temple in Gangnam

In spring, the temple buildings and surrounding hills are covered in pink beauty. Make sure you see the 23-metre high statue of Buddha that watches over the citizens of Seoul.

READ NEXT: 10 Secret Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Seoul in Total Peace

Namhansanseong Cherry Blossom Path | 남한산성

Address: 731, Namhansanseong-ro, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기도 광주시 남한산성면 남한산성로 731

Since 1997, Gwangju City (in Gyeonggi-do NOT Jeollanam-do) has planted over 3,000 cherry trees, along the road to the UNESCO listed Namhansanseong Fortress. These cherry blossoms in Korea are now over 25 years old, so you can just imagine how huge and beautiful they are.

Namhansanseong is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Namhansanseong Provincial Park is accessible from Seoul using public transit. It’s well worth a visit, especially during spring, and autumn in Korea, for hiking and enjoying the splendour of nature.

Seoul Racing Park | 렛츠런파크 서울

Address: 107, Gyeongmagongwon-daero, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do

Let’s Run Park or the Seoul Racing Park, is actually located in Gyeonggi-do, just north of Seoul Grand Park. It’s an international-scale horse racing track, and thoroughbred horse races like the Korean Derby and Grand Prix are hosted here. You can also see cherry blossoms in Korea here.

Cherry blossoms and horses – an interesting combination © Lee Beomsu, Korea Tourism Organization

Popular Cherry Blossom Spots in Seoul, Gyeonggi-do and Incheon

Aside from the major cherry blossom festivals at Yeouido Hangang Park and Seokchon Lake, there are many other wonderful spring flower hotspots in these areas.

Cherry blossoms at Seokchon Lake in Seoul.

I’ve written more extensively about some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, so be sure to check that out for more details.

Seoul

Seoul National Cemetery | 국립서울현충원

• Has unique suyang “weeping willow” cherry blossoms.
• 210, Hyeonchung-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul
•  Dongjak Station, exits 2 or 4. The Cemetery is about a 5 min walk away.

Seoul Forest | 서울숲

• Massive green space in the middle of Seoul, near the Hangang River and Eunbongsan Mountain.
• 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
• Seoul Forest Station, Exit 4 or Ttukseon Station, Exit 8

Jeongdok Library | 정독도서관

• Hidden gem location, near Bukchon Hanok Village in atmospheric Samcheong-dong
• 48, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Yonsei University | 연세대학교

• University campus known for cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, and pink azaleas in Seoul.
• 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
• Sinchon Station, Exit 2

Kyung Hee University | 경희대학교

• Gothic-styled architecture that’s rare in Seoul, gorgeous gardens and over 200 cherry blossoms trees at the main gate.
• 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul
• Hoegi Station, Exit 1

Dream Forest | 북서울 꿈의숲

• Large park in northern Seoul, with cherry blossoms and a free observatory with panoramic views
• 173 Wolgye-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul
• Miasageori Station, Exit 2, then ride Bus Gangbuk05 for 8 stops.

Seoul National Cemetery has unique weeping willow cherry blossoms © twobrownfeet.com

Incheon & Gyeonggi-do

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress | 수원화성

• UNESCO fortress, with over 200 cherry trees lining the roads from Gyeonggi Provincial Office, Paldalsan Mountain and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
• 334 Jangan-dong, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do
• Suwon Station, Line 1, Exit 4, 7, or 9

Jayu Park | 자유공원

• Park full of cherry blossoms, walking distance from Chinatown in Incheon
• 269, Jemullyang-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon
• Incheon Station on Line 1, Exit 1

Hwadam Botanic Garden | 화담숲

• Gorgeous garden with monorail and spring flowers, including cherry blossoms, daffodils, and azalea
• 278-1 Docheogwit-ro, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
• Guide to visiting Hwadam

Songdo Central Park | 송도센트럴파크

• Beautiful park in Incheon, with an artificial lake, greenery, and cherry blossom trees
• 160 Convensia-daero, Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon
• Incheon National University Station, Exit 4 or Central Park Station, Exit 3

SK Petrochemical Complex | SK석유화학단지

• Off the radar cherry blossom spot in Incheon
• 415 Bongsu-daero, Seo-gu, Incheon
• Gajeong Jungang Market Station Exit 2

Lovely cherry blossoms in Korea.

Best Cherry Blossoms beyond Seoul

It’s definitely worth traveling beyond Seoul in search of pink blooms. Some of the most spectacular cherry blossoms I’ve seen in Korea, haven’t been in the capital region of all.

Some of the best cherry blossoms in Korea are in Gyeongsang-do.

Here are some of the most gorgeous cherry blossom spots in Busan, Daegu, and Gyeongju to search out.

Chimsanjeong Pavilion | 침산정

Address: 1168-3, Chimsan-dong, Buk-gu, Daegu

My first sight of the cherry blossoms at Chimsanjeong Pavilion in Daegu left me literally breathless. With clouds of pink cherry blossoms hanging romantically over a long, steep set of stone stairs, it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful places to see cherry blossoms in Korea.

Chimsanjeong Pavilion in Daegu is beyond stunning.

A lot of people seem to agree. Make sure you get to Chimsanjeong early, otherwise you’ll be waiting in line for hours to get THAT pic. Is it worth it? Probably.

Kkotbora Dongsan | 꽃보라동산

Address: 1500-6, Sangyeok-dong, Buk-gu, Daegu Metropolitan City | 대구광역시 북구 산격동 1500-6

Flower Bora Hill is a small park in Daegu that’s filled with beautiful cherry blossoms, photo spots, and sunset views over the river.

Kkotbora Dongsan is a lovely city park full of cherry blossoms trees in Korea.

Kkotbora Dongsan is a great place to visit with kids, with bicycle paths, colourful cotton candy, and plenty of lovely photo zones to explore.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Gyeongju

Full of UNESCO sites, and considered an open-air museum, Gyeongju is worth a visit at any time of the year. But when the cherry blossoms in Korea start to bloom, it’s extra special. Here’s where you can go for a shot of pretty pink.

Spectacular cherry blossoms in Gyeongju © Lee Bumsu, Korea Tourism Organization

• Bomun Lake Tourist Complex
• Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram
• Daereungwon Tombs
• Cheomseongdae
• Donggung and Wolji Complex

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Busan

Situated on the coast with gorgeous beaches, Busan is stunning all year-round. In spring though, it turns into a pink paradise like no other. Here’s where Korea’s cherry blossoms burst into glorious life in Busan.

Gorgeous cherry blossoms at Democracy Park in Busan © Lee Bumsu, Korea Tourism Organization

Here’s where to see cherry blossoms in Busan:

• Democracy Park
• Dalmaji Hill
• Oncheon Stream Park
• Samnak Ecological Park

Nammyeon Coastal Road in Namhae | 남면해안도로

Address: 1486-6, Danghang-ri, Nam-myeon, Namhae-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do | 경남 남해군 남면 당항리1486-6

The Nammyeon Coastal Road in Namhae is what cherry blossom in Korea dreams are made of. This 15-km stretch of road in Namhae, winds right next to the sea, and was designated as one of the most beautiful roads in Korea. It’s easy to see why.

The Nammyeong Coastal Road is simply magnificent ⓒ Lee Jeong-hun, Korea Tourism Organization

Cherry Blossoms in Korea | Gangwon-do

Gangwondo lies to the North and East of the capital region. It’s chockfull of natural beauty. Deep blue seas, sandy white beaches, and majestic mountains all compete for attention here.

Gangwondo has mountains, beaches AND cherry blossoms ⓒ Gangwon Office, Korea Tourism Organization

Nami Island is one of the most popular spots to see cherry blossoms in Korea, but here are some other spots in Gangwon-do Province:

• Chuncheon Dam
• Bangok Station in Wonju
• Samcheok Maengbang Cherry Blossom Road
• Mulan Village in Bugu-ri, Chuncheon
• Cheongcho Lake Park in Sokcho
• Gongjicheon Stream, Uiamho Lake, Chuncheon

READ NEXT: The Gangchon Rail Bike is a MUST-DO in Korea

Cherry Blossoms in Korea | Jeju Island

Jeju Island has a humid subtropical climate, so it’s usually the first place that cherry blossoms appear in Korea. You can also see the huge King Cherry Blossoms on Jeju island, which are totally endemic to Korea.

Cherry blossoms in Korea bloom first in Jeju © Lee Beomsu, Korea Tourism Organization

Here’s are some hotspots in Jeju to watch out for cherry blossoms in Korea:

• Hallim Park
• Samseonghyeol Shrine
• Jeju University and Cherry Blossom Street
• Noksan Road
• Seongeup Folk Village

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The all too short season of cherry blossoms in Korea covers the entire country from top to bottom in pink petals. Which place is top of your list?