1. Celebrating Spring in Korea in Style
When it comes to spring flowers, Japan rules the roost with its famous sakura.
But here’s why South Korea’s cherry blossoms (or 벚꽃 (beojkkoch) deserve a spot on your bucket list, too.
Between March to April, these gorgeous pink and white flowers bloom all over the country.
Couple that with mild spring weather, traditional architecture, and epic landscapes. And voila, you’ve got the perfect cherry blossom destination.
From Seoul to Busan, here’s everything you need to know for your 2025 cherry blossom trip:
2. Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in South Korea
Timing your cherry blossom trip to Korea can be tricky because these pretty pink flowers don’t last long.
It's not exactly rocket science - but you do need some smart planning.
25 February 2025 Update
The 2025 cherry blossom forecast is out!
Blooms are expected three to eight days earlier this year, starting in Jeju on 22 March, Busan on 23 March, and Seoul and Gangneung on 1 April.
Full bloom should follow about a week later - around 29 March in Seogwipo and Jeju, and 8 April in Seoul.
Here's a graphic to help you visualise the best time to visit South Korea for cherry blossoms.
And here are the predicted bloom dates for 2025:
Region | Bloom Dates (2025) |
|---|---|
Seogwipo/Jeju | 22 March |
Busan | 23 March |
Daegu | 24 March |
Pohang | 25 March |
Yeosu | 26 March |
Jeonju | 26 March |
Gwangju | 27 March |
Daejeon | 29 March |
Cheongju | 29 March |
Gangneung | 1 April |
Seoul | 1 April |
Suwon | 3 April |
Chuncheon | 4 April |
Incheon | 4 April |
Of course, Mother Nature has her own schedule.
Flowering and prediction dates can be unpredictable.
Remember, monitoring the latest Korea cherry blossom forecast updates is key.
If you keep a flexible itinerary, that doesn’t hurt too.
Pro tip: stay updated on the official Weather i cherry blossom forecast website. You'll the latest updates there.
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3. Top Cherry Blossom Festivals in Korea 🌸
Photo: @_abigailjo on Instagram
No cherry blossom trip to Korea is complete without a proper springtime festival.
That's where you'll get Insta-worthy scenery out of a dream. Or opportunities to munch local delicacies like tteokbokki while enjoying the blooms.
Whatever it is, here are the best festivals to catch - from the capital all the way down to Jeju.
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
We'll start with the biggest and one of the prettiest in the coastal city of Jinhae.
If there's one cherry blossom festival in Korea you shouldn't miss, it’s this one.
Also known as the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, it's the largest beojkkoch celebration around.
And without fail, millions of visitors flock here each year.
Busan is the best base for visiting the festival, whether you join a tour or not (though we recommend a tour for convenience).
Here, you’ll see local Korean cherry trees and the famous Yoshino cherry variety.
As for the top spots? Don't miss Gyeonghwa Station, where cherry blossoms frame an old railway track.
You also can't miss Yeojwacheon Stream with its gorgeous Romance Bridge. At night, the glowing lanterns make the pink petals look even more magical.
Once you’re done, head over to Jeju for the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival to kill two birds with one stone.
Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival (Seoul)
Ah, Seoul’s most famous cherry blossom spot.
And the best place to see beojkkoch in the capital – the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival.
This is when Yeouido Hangang Park transforms into the dreamiest pink paradise.
With over 1,800 cherry trees in full bloom, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to cherry blossom viewing. But with all those flowers, expect serious crowds too.
During this time, the roads behind the National Assembly Building on Yeouido Island are closed. But don’t worry - there’s no bad spot here. Just bring a picnic mat, find a spot by the Han River, and you’re all set.
Also known as the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, it’s not just about cherry blossoms. You can also spot more spring flowers like forsythias and royal azaleas too.
Best of all, there’s no admission fee - perfect if you’re on a budget.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the food stalls and live street performances.
Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival (Seoul)
Want cherry blossoms with a side of epic lake views?
Well, the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is your perfect spot.
The calm lake surrounding Lotte World Magic Island mirrors the pink cherry blossoms.
And not only is it one of Seoul’s most romantic spring spots. But it’s also super convenient if you're up for some theme park fun.
Oh, and if you're lucky, you might be able to catch a cherry blossom concert too!
Pro tip: If you're a couple, rent a school uniform for that classic Korean date vibe when you head over to the theme park.
Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival
Jeju Island does cherry blossoms differently, and we mean that in the best way possible.
Jeju Island not only has the earliest cherry blossoms in Korea. But it's also home to the vibrant and impressive king cherry trees.
Why are they so special? The king cherry blossoms only peak for two to three days, making them pretty rare. And you'll be lucky to catch them in full bloom.
Thankfully, the blossoms last for weeks, well past the flowering date.
Photo: @spoonsofdelights on Instagram
And of course, the best place to enjoy cherry blossoms in Jeju is at the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival.
Pro tip: For the best views, check out Jeonnong-ro Cherry Blossom Street, Jeju National University, Yerae Eco Park, and Halla Arboretum.
Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival
History and cherry blossoms? Yes, please!
The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival transforms this ancient city into a spring wonderland, with beautiful cherry blossoms in all shapes and sizes.
The star of the show? The stunning Bomun Lake, in the heart of the Bomun Tourist Complex.
But there’s so much more to see and do here too.
Don’t miss the Instagram-worthy Waterwheel Square and the Bomun Pavilion, where cherry blossoms reflect in the calm water. You can also pedal a cute duck boat or ride a bike for a bit more fun.
Pro tip: If you’re coming from Busan, book a specialised cherry blossom day tour to hit all the best spots.
Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival
Are you looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience?
Gyeongpo might be right up your alley.
Here, you can enjoy cherry blossoms and cultural performances in a more rural part of South Korea.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out the Gyeongpodae Pavilion. Tucked away in a pine tree forest, it’s especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
From there, you’ll get a stunning view of Gyeongpo Lake, with rugged mountains in the distance.
Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival
Photo: @lee_______ann on Instagram
When it comes to blooming cherry blossoms right in the heart of nature, you can’t go wrong with the Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival.
Located at the foothills of the breathtaking Jirisan (지리산), this festival gets blanketed in pastel hues of white and pink during spring.
Photo: @icha980324 on Instagram
A major highlight is the Simni Cherry Blossom Road. The road is also known as “Hollye-gil” by locals, meaning "Wedding Road."
And according to the saying, when a couple walks this road together, they’ll live a happy married life.
Pro tip: Be sure to try the massive cherry blossom oysters (beotgul) nearby - they’re as big as a human hand!
Seoul Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival
Photo: @n2ninew on Instagram
Without a doubt, Seoul Grand Park is the best all-in-one spot to view cherry blossoms.
The annual cherry blossom festival held there is also a must-visit.
There are a few ways to soak in all that spring magic. You can either take the Sky Lift from Seoul Grand Park Station to the Main Building.
Or hop from the North Gate of Seoul Zoo to Seoul Land Theme Park and have a picnic nearby.
Take note you'll need to pre-book tickets for the theme park.
Along with the pink petals, enjoy activities like flower face painting, a piano-lined flower path, and night cherry blossom viewings.
Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom & Lantern Festival
Do crowds and mainstream tourists get on your nerves?
If so, check out the Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom & Lantern Festival, a great alternative to other festivals in Seoul.
The cherry blossoms along the Yangjaecheon Stream are straight out of a fairytale. Especially the magical lanterns that get lit at night.
Overall, it's a pretty good option if you've been to other festivals already.
4. Other Spring Festivals in Korea to Check Out
The Garden of Morning Calm Spring Festival
Who says you need cherry blossom trees to have an epic time in spring?
Case in point: The Garden of Morning Calm is always a great choice with its beautiful landscape.
While its landscape is beautiful year-round, spring is when this stunning garden really shines.
A perfect day trip from Seoul, here you can admire a variety of spring flowers.
Look out for Japanese apricots, forsythia, magnolia, azalea, and, of course, cherry blossoms.
Pro tip: Combine your visit with Nami Island and Petite France to make the most of your day.
Taean World Tulip Flower Festival
On the rare occasion you experience cherry blossom viewing fatigue, you can always escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul.
Your destination? Head south to the Taean Tulip Festival on a day tour, home to one of the world’s top five tulip festivals.
What can you do there? Wander through the vibrant Kkotji Ocean Park, where over 300 species of tulips in full bloom await.
After soaking in the beauty of the gardens, you can even join a nearby strawberry-picking tour and combine it with your festival visit.
Gwangyang Plum Blossom Festival
For desktop wallpaper-worthy views, cue the Gwangyang International Maehwa Festival.
You'll find this gorgeous spring escape at Seomjin Village, home to Korea’s largest plum blossom grove.
And trust us, it’s a dream for nature lovers.
Here, you can stroll beneath delicate white plum blooms, snap Insta-worthy shots, and try organic plum treats. What’s not to love?
After that, why not explore Jeonju Hanok Village? It's easy to visit on a combined tour with the festival.
With its charming alleys, traditional buildings, and local eats, Jeonju is packed with epic things to do and is the perfect way to wrap up your day.
5. Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Korea (Beyond Festivals)
Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Seoul
Seoul Forest Park – A peaceful escape with cherry-lined paths and waterfront views. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a laid-back stroll, and an excellent way to enjoy spring in Seoul.
Namsan Park – Cherry blossoms with stunning city views 262 metres high. Take a hike up to N Seoul Tower for the best of both nature and skyline. Pro tip: head up to the Observatory for staggering views of the city.
Dream Forest – The fourth largest park in Seoul, this hidden gem has pink blossoms to die for. Check out the Cherry Blossom Path and the free observatory with a majestic view of Bukhansan Mountain, where you’ll also find scenic hiking trails for those who want to explore the great outdoors.
Gyeongbokgung Palace – Imagine cherry blossoms against the backdrop of this grand palace. If you’re into rich history, this one’s for you! Pro tip: rent a hanbok when you visit the main royal palace grounds to level up your photo-taking game.
Huiujeong-ro Cherry Blossom Road – A lovely area lined with cherry trees, perfect for snapping photos with "vintage" buildings. If you're wondering where to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, this is one of definitely one of the capital's top spots.
Mangwon Hangang Park – A chill riverside park full of cherry blossom trees. You'll find most of them along the football field and basketball and volleyball courts.
Ewha Womans University – Cherry blossoms and other spring flowers come together here to make a petal paradise. It’s one of the prettiest university campuses in spring, with yellow forsythia and pink azaleas.
Photo: @profhannahjun on Instagram
Yonsei University – Near Ewha Womans University, Yonsei’s campus feels like something out of a storybook. The university is famous for its pink blooms, as well as plum and azalea blossoms.
Kyung Hee University – A mix of gorgeous Gothic architecture with over 200 cherry trees. It’s definitely one of the most picturesque spots in Seoul.
Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Busan
Haeundae Blueline Park Capsule – Okay, this spot might not be known for cherry blossoms. But you should definitely hop on this TikTok-famous monorail along the coast. Your reward? A unique and scenic springtime view that's hard to beat.
Haeundae Dalmaji Road – A peaceful, hilly road with cherry trees, perfect for a scenic road trip.
Samnak Park – A spacious park with walking and cycling trails, blessed with 3,000 cherry trees. It's also a bird sanctuary for migrating species.
Busan Democracy Park – A park commemorating the citizens of Busan during the 4.19 Revolution and the Buma Democratic Movement. Come here for hundreds of king cherry trees dotting its grounds.
Namcheon-dong Cherry Blossom Road – A street that transforms into shades of heavenly pink in spring. It's also conveniently located near other cool spots like Gwangalli Beach.
Oncheoncheon Café Street – A charming spot with lots of cherry blossoms, cosy cafés, bakeries, and restaurants - perfect for a relaxing morning or evening.
Daejeo Eco Park – Located by the Nakdonggang River, this park offers cherry blossoms and fields of bright yellow canola flowers, along with a 12-kilometre tunnel along the river.
Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Jeju
Jeonnong-ro Street – Home to Jeju’s famous king cherry blossoms. These big, bright pink blooms create a stunning sight in spring. And they're also known for being larger than other cherry varieties. Don’t miss the epic 1.2-kilometre cherry blossom tunnel when it’s in full bloom. Pro tip: join a day tour that'll take you there for added convenience.
Sinsan Park – A huge park with multiple plant species, not just cherry blossoms. With plenty of flowers spread across the park, it’s a great picnic spot, especially for couples.
Noksan-ro – A scenic road lined with cherry blossom trees and canola flowers, creating a mesmerizing splash of pink and golden yellow. Pro tip: it’s not easily accessible by public transport, so consider renting a car or chartering one.
Jangjeon-ri – A dramatically beautiful spot for cherry blossoms. During the season, the road closes, and the trees stretch for 250 metres, becoming even more spectacular at night when streetlights illuminate the petals.
Halla Arboretum – No cherry blossom list in Jeju is complete without the Arboretum. This botanical hotspot is home to over 900 species of trees. And of course, cherry blossoms take centre stage during spring.
Jeju Stadium – It may be unexpected. But Jeju Stadium is surprisingly an excellent cherry blossom spot. The mix of cherry trees surrounding the sports venue are ultra-scenic. And the stadium's grounds are spacious too.
Aewol High School – A secluded high school entrance with stunning cherry blossoms. This hidden gem may not stay hidden for long.
Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Jeonju
Wansan Flower Garden – A hidden floral paradise filled with cherry blossoms. A peaceful and scenic place to enjoy spring. Plus, there are other spring flowers like yellow apricots and apple flowers to admire as well.
Other Cherry Blossom Hotspots in South Korea
Nami Island – A fairytale-like island with cherry trees lining scenic pathways. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful spring escape, and you can also relive your K-drama fantasies in style. Many tours available online combine visits to other spots. But you can always buy just the admission ticket if you plan to visit only Nami Island.
Jayu Park – A historic park in Incheon that transforms into a pink wonderland in spring. It’s a great place for a relaxing nature walk and also a convenient stop if you're travelling from Incheon Airport to Seoul.
Anyangcheon Cherry Blossom Walkway – A peaceful lakeside path lined with cherry trees. Perfect for a casual stroll or picnic.
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress – A UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by cherry blossoms. The contrast between the ancient fortress walls and pink petals is stunning. There are tours that easily pick you up for a day trip from Seoul.
6. Cherry Blossom Travel Tips in Korea
When is spring in Korea & what to expect:
Spring in Korea typically runs from March to May, with cherry blossoms blooming from late March to mid April. The weather is generally mild, and the scenery is undeniably stunning.
Thinks shades of pink and white everywhere you look.
It’s the perfect time for to venture outdoors. But be sure to pack layers to stay comfy and warm when required.
Tips on where to stay for cherry blossoms in Korea (Seoul, Busan, Jeju):
Seoul: If you want to be close to the action, stay near spots like Namsan or Yeouido. You’ll be right by the cherry blossoms, plus there’s plenty of accommodation options to choose from.
Busan: For a mix of city vibes and sea breeze, Haeundae is a superb place to stay. You’ll have cherry blossoms and ocean views all in one go.
Jeju: If you’re looking for something fool-proof, try Jeju City or Aewol. These areas are perfect for soaking in the cherry blossoms.
How to check the cherry blossom forecast in Korea before planning:
To make sure you hit the cherry blossoms at their peak, check the cherry blossom forecasts online.
Reliable sources like the Korea Meteorological Administration will keep you updated on bloom dates, so you know exactly when to go!
Travel hacks for avoiding crowds & best times of day to visit:
To avoid the crowds, head out early in the morning or late in the afternoon - that’s when it’s usually quieter, and the light is great for photos.
If you can, plan your visit on a weekday instead of the weekend when things tend to get busy.
For a more peaceful cherry blossom experience, look for hidden gems or smaller parks where you can enjoy the beauty without the hustle and bustle.
7. Beyond Cherry Blossoms in Korea
Loving the cherry blossoms in Korea? Why not extend your cherry blossom adventure a bit further?
The cherry blossom season in Japan is definitely worth checking out - it’s got its own unique charm and stunning views.
And if you're up for more, Taiwan's cherry blossom hotspots are another must-see. Both spots offer something special, perfect for making the most of the cherry blossom season.