Get ready to see the magnificent cherry blossoms!
This year’s cherry blossoms are expected to bloom one to seven days earlier than average.
The earliest cherry blossoms can be seen in Busan around March 22nd, while Seoul will have to wait until April 3rd. Usually the cherry blossoms peak approximately one week after blossoming, so you will be able to see them in full bloom in Seogwipo, Jeju after March 31st and in Seoul around April 10th.
For those preparing a trip to Korea this spring: be sure to plan ahead to see cherry blossoms in full bloom all around the country!
List of places and dates:
- Busan: March 22nd
- Jeju Island (Seogwipo) and Pohang: March 24th
- Daegu: March 26th
- Yeosu and Gwangju: March 28th
- Jeonju: March 29th
- Daejeon: March 30th
- Gangneung and Cheongju: March 31st
- Seoul: April 3rd
- Chuncheon, Incheon and Suwon: April 7th
(Dates are subject to change depending on weather conditions).
Activities to do during cherry blossom season:
- Joining the Cherry Blossom Festival:
Multiple cities in SK decorate their streets and parks and organise special festivals to celebrate the beautiful view and gather people to enjoy the cherry blossoms, take pictures and picnic with their loved ones!
Some of the most famous → Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival [usually around March 25th to April 3rd]; Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival (Seoul) → from March 27th to the 31st in 2024. In Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan…
- Seeing Cherry Blossoms and Canola Flowers in Jeju:
They are very unique since their petals are slightly larger than the others and their blooming period is quite short, and last only 2 to 3 days! But do not worry! You can still see Jeju’s most famous flower, the canola flower, all year round.
- Visiting Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung or Deoksugung Palace:
These palaces have many spots with cherry blossoms to take aesthetic pictures. Wearing Hanbok here earns free admission and a trip back to the Joseon era.
- Walking along the Olympic Park in Songpa-gu:
This large venue is colored pink and green, the alleys aren’t always crowded and the road to get there is amazing, with enormous cherry blossoms to view on the way.
- Visiting the Filming location of ‘Winter Sonata’ in Nami Island:
Even though Nami Island is quite famous for its tree-lined scenery, spring is the best time to enjoy its beautiful view. In addition to Nami Island, cherry blossom season will allow you to rediscover Petite France, and the stunning Garden of the Morning Calm.
- Picnic at the Han River:
When mentioning spring, we often think of picnics and sightseeing. So what’s better than enjoying a nice afternoon at the Han River after a delicious picnic? You could rent a bike and cycle along the river or simply walk around and take in the scenery.
- Hiking Mount Inwangsan:
If you like outdoor activities and nature, this activity is for you. Mount Inwangsan offers a splendid hiking trail covered in cherry blossoms. And if that wasn’t enough to motivate you, the breathtaking view you will be rewarded with once you reach the summit might be. You will feel refreshed and recharged!
Enjoy the beginning of Spring and hope you have a wonderful time!!
By Tya BÉRAMICE-DRACAN & Cristina SEVERI