Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Korea 2025 | Forecast and Best Festivals

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 Peninsula south to north, 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

In this guide to cherry blossoms in Korea, I’ll fill you in on:

• the Korean cherry blossom forecast 2024
• the best places and festivals to see cherry blossoms in Seoul and around the rest of Korea
• my personal tips for when to catch these gorgeous pink blooms at their 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.

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.

Typically blooming from mid-March to mid-April, cherry blossom season in Korea is one of the most beloved times of the year, for both locals and travelers alike.

When is Cherry Blossom Season in Korea?

Spring seems to be arriving earlier and earlier with each passing year, and cherry blossoms in Korea are following suit. Blessing us with their beauty as early as the last weeks of March, they might stick around until the 2nd week of April. If we’re lucky.

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

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

All bets are off if it rains or there’s a lot of wind. These factors will shorten their lifespan painfully. They’re fickle like that.

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

The changing global climate is also having a major impact on the timing of cherry blossom season in Korea. Last spring, they peaked incredibly early, and fell to the ground a lot faster than expected.

Who knows what the 2024 Korean cherry blossoms will bring? Only time will tell…

Korea Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024

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!

Generally speaking, cherry blossoms in Korea appear in mid-March and last until mid-April. When you’re planning your travels to South Korea, remember that cherry blossoms bloom from south to north.

Cherry blossom forecasting is a national obsession.

In 2024, the first cherry blossoms are forecast to appear in Busan on March 22nd. The final peak of cherry blossoms in Korea is forecast to be in Chuncheon (near Nami Island) around April 14th. Seoul is projected to start blooming around April 3rd, and peak by April 10th.

Here’s the most updated Korean cherry blossom forecast for 2024 so far. These were just updated by the weatheri website, and are based on current weather conditions.

My personal take? I’m honestly not sure. These blooming dates are a little earlier than historical blooming dates, but not by much. If 2024 is anything like last year, these dates will miss the cherry blossoms in Seoul completely!

I’d still say that the ideal dates to visit Korea for cherry blossoms in 2024 would be the last week of March and the first days of April. Any earlier or later and you’ll likely miss the best of them.

I’ve provided full forecast details for various cherry blossom hotspots around Korea in the following chart. First bloom is when the first cherry blossoms are expected to appear, and at peak bloom, 80 to 90% of the buds have flowered.

After cherry blossom peak in Korea, you can expect a stunning flower shower and a pretty carpet of pink petals beneath your feet.

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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

My Favorite Cherry Blossoms in Korea

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

I still look forward to cherry blossom season – even after 13 years.

They are:

1. Chimsanjeong Pavilion in Daegu
2. Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae
3. Hwagae 10-ri Cherry Blossom Road in Hadong
4. Seomjingang Cherry Blossom Trail in Gurye
5. 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, and willing to travel. They’re mostly not in Seoul.

Best Cherry Blossom Festivals in Korea 2024

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 2024, most, if not all of these festivals will take place in the last few weeks of March, and end in early 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 (13 years!). 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 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 Korea cherry blossom festival dates for 2024 wherever possible. Keep checking back though, as I’ll continue to update as more information is released.

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

Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 진해군항제

Festival Dates: March 23rd – April 1st, 2024

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

After years of cancellations, 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.

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.

Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 석촌호수 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: March 27th – 31st, 2024

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.

Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival 2024 | 영등포 여의도 봄꽃축제

Cherry Blossom Festival Dates: March 29th – April 2nd, 2024

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 (photo courtesy: twobrownfeet.com)

An alternative to avoid the crowds is to take a Han River Cruise during Korea’s cherry blossom season. Yeouido is the starting dock for these boat rides, and it’ll take you right past all those gorgeous spring flowers.

Cherry blossoms are also stunning at night © Lee Beomsu, Korea Tourism Organization

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.

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

Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 제주 왕벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: March 22nd – 24th, 2024

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 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 a bit later in the season, 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 in late April, 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!

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon 2024 and Festival | 경주벚꽃마라톤

Festival Dates: Cherry Blossom Festival: March 29th – 31st, 2024 | Cherry Blossom Marathon: April 6th, 2024

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. I recently visited, and had a wonderful time exploring Korea’s Silla Dynasty History and eating 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 the best budget accommodation 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.

Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 화개장터 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: March 22nd – 24th, 2024

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

The “10ri 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 10ri 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.

Samnak Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 삼락 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, but 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

Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 경포대 벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: April 5th – 10th, 2024

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.

Cheongpung Lake Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 청풍호벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, but usually beginning of April

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.

Gyeonggi Provincial Government Complex Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 | 수원시

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, but usually mid-April

Address: 1, Hyowon-ro, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do

Near Paldalsan Mountain and the Gyeonggi Provincial Government Complex in Suwon, you’ll find a flower tunnel formed by the petals of over 200 cherry trees.

Pink! Pink! Pink!

The festival is in its 38th year, and includes more than 60 musical shows, street art performances, and a food truck zone of 30 vendors.

Search out spring flowers at Suwon’s UNESCO Hwaseong Fortress on a day tour from Seoul.

Cherry Blossoms in Korea | Seoul Capital Region

The Seoul Capital region is made up of the special city of Seoul, Gyeonggi-do Province, and Incheon. It’s a massive metropolis of around 25-million people that has such excellent transit connections – it’s possible to think of it as one giant connected city.

All of Seoul is covered in cherry blossoms in April.

These areas will likely be your home base for seeing cherry blossoms in Korea. While there are a few major cherry blossom festivals to attend, you don’t actually have to attend any of them. It’s easy to see gorgeous cherry blossoms in Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi-do, every which way you turn.

Lotte World Tower is Korea’s tallest building.

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

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Seoul

Aside from the major cherry blossoms festivals in Seoul, other spring flower hotspots include:

• Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Changgyeonggung Palace
• Seoul National Cemetery | 국립서울현충원
• Seoul Forest | 서울숲
• Seoul Children’s Grand Park | 서울어린이대공원
• Yonsei University | 연세대학교
• Kyung Hee University | 경희대학교
• Dream Forest | 북서울 꿈의숲
• Ansan Mountain | 안산
• Anyang Stream | 안양천

Cherry blossoms are beautiful at Gyeongbokgung Palace.

I’ve written extensively about the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, so be sure to check that out for more details. Here are my other top picks in Seoul.

Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom Road | 양재천 벚꽃길

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

A short Yangjaecheon Stream cherry blossom and lantern festival is usually held over the first weekend in April.

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.

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

Seoul’s Joseon Dynasty Palaces | Changgyeonggung

Address: Jongno area

Seoul’s palaces are lovely under any circumstances, 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!

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.

Jamsil Jugong 5-Danji | 잠실동 오단지

Address: 567 Songpa-daero, Songpa-gu, Seoul

The Jamsil 5-Danji is an old apartment complex located across the street from the Lotte World Tower and Mall in Jamsil. This eyesore of apartment buildings is set for demolition and major construction, but in the meantime, you can enjoy matured trees that form an incredible canopy of leaves that feels like a cathedral.

Check out these cherry blossoms in Korea from matured trees before this apartment block gets demolished!

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

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.

Spring Tours from Seoul

• Seoul Seasonal Hot Attractions Tour | March 2nd – May 14th, 2024
• Gwangyang Maehwa & Jeonju Hanok Village Tour | March 8th – 20th, 2024
• Spring Flowers + Cherry Blossoms at Hwaseong Fortress | March 18th – April 29th, 2024
• Spring Flower Festivals at Jeonju Hanok Village | March 18th – May 31st, 2024
• Pocheon Art Valley + Strawberry Farm Experience | March 18th – June 30th, 2024
• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Tour | March 25th – April 5th, 2024
• Hwadam Forest Cherry Blossoms + Spring Flowers | March 27th – April 26th, 2024
• Incheon Cherry Blossom + Wonmisan Azalea Festival | April 3rd – 10th, 2024
• Ganghwa Island Cherry Blossom & Luge Ride Experience | April 4th – 13th, 2024
• Cherry Blossom Hunting in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do | April 5th – 14th, 2024
• Taean Tulip Festival + Strawberry Picking Experience | April 12th – May 7th, 2024
• King Cherry Blossom Tour from Seoul | April 18th – 25th, 2024

Spring Tours from Busan

• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Tour | March 25th – April 5th, 2024
• Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival from Busan | March 25th – April 7th, 2024
• Hadong Cherry Blossom Road + Ssanggyesa + Cable Car | March 25th – April 5th, 2024
• Chasing Cherry Blossoms in Busan + Blueline Sky Capsule | March 25th – April 7th, 2024
• King Cherry Blossom Hunting Tour from Busan | April 12th – 21st, 2024

Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae is simply stunning.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Gyeonggi-do and Incheon

Gyeonggi-do and Incheon are the 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. There are a ton of incredible places to see cherry blossoms in Korea in this area.

Gyeonggi-do is easy to get to from Seoul.

Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Gyeonggi-do and Incheon are:

• Incheon Grand Park | 인천대공원
• Songdo Central Park | 송도센트럴파크
• Anyang Art Park | 안양예술공원
• SK Petrochemical Complex | SK석유화학단지
• Eden Cherry Blossom Road | 에덴벚꽃길
• Ho-am Museum Art Museum (inside Everland Theme Park) | 호암미술관
• Jayu Park | 자유공원

Seoul Grand Park | 서울대공원

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

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

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 Fortress is UNESCO World Heritage © Kim Hakri, Live Studio, KTO

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.

Dodang Mountain Park | 도당공원

Address: Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon-si, Wonmi-gu, Sosa-ro 593beon-gil, 124 | 경기도 부천시 원미구 소사로593번길 124

Dodang Park in Buchon is a spring in Korea hotspot, with 2000 mature cherry trees lining the 1.8-km road up to the peak of the mountain. You can also enjoy a sculpture and culture park, and the stunning sight of this gorgeous avenue of trees illuminated at nightfall.

After all the cherry blossoms in Korea have fallen to the ground, you can head to Dodang Park to see the One Million Rose Garden a bit later in the season.

Cherry Blossoms in Korea | Gyeongsang-do

Gyeongsangnam-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do make up the southeastern part of Korea. It’s famous for gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood, and the biggest cherry blossom festival in Korea. (That’s the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival in Changwon City, which hosts millions of visitors every year!)

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

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Daegu

Daegu in Gyeongsangbuk-do surprised me with the unexpected gorgeousness of its cherry blossoms. It’s definitely worth a visit when cherry blossoms in Korea are in full bloom.

From cotton candy to cherry blossoms – pastel dreams in Daegu.

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

Nami Island | 남이섬

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

Even though Nami Island is technically in Gangwon-do, it’s just on the border, and very close to Seoul. It’s 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.

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

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

Cherry Blossoms in Korea | Chungcheong-do

Chungcheongbuk-do and Chungcheongnam-do sit in the middle of Korea, with the coast on its West side. Most travellers rush past this region on their way south to Busan, but a stop in Gongju and Danyang are well worth your time.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Gongju

Gongju is pretty off the radar for most tourists visiting South Korea, but it’s so worth your time. I’ve been there twice!

As the former capital of the Baekje Kingdom, there’s a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including an incredible ancient fortress, beautiful temples, and stunning natural landscapes. Check out my guide to Gongju’s sights here.

Gongju is worth a visit for more than just cherry blossoms in Korea.

There are number of places in Gongju to find the pink blooms of your dreams during cherry blossom season in Korea.

Gyeryongsan Cherry Blossom Festival | 계룡산벚꽃축제

Festival Dates: TBA for 2024, 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, 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

Gongju Jungdong Cathedral | 공주 중동성당

Address: 6 Seongdang-gil, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do

The Gongju Jungdong Cathedral was built by Western missionaries in the Middle Ages, and retains its European-style architecture. The pretty combination of cherry blossoms in Korea and the century-old church is a special scene during springtime.

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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?