As spring drives away the winter cold in Korea, nature awakens and life carpets the Earth. Flowers bud, trees thaw and grass grow, but amidst all of that hullabaloo, the beauty of cherry blossoms shines through. Japan might be the first that springs (yes, pun intended) to mind as we speak of cherry blossoms or sakura, but Korea can rival anything Japan has to offer. Here are some of the most dazzling spots in Korea to catch the cherry blossoms in spring.(Photo: Yuichi Kosio)
1. Jinhae Gunhangje Festival
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| Cherry Blossoms over Yeojwacheon Stream in Korea |
Situated at the port town of Jinhae-gu lies the annual Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, Korea’s top cherry blossom celebration. The yearly affair features canopies of cherry blossoms all around — a stunning sight that capture the hearts of millions each year.
Pay a visit to the picturesque Yeojwacheon Stream and “Romance Bridge”, or simply take a stroll along Gyeonghwa station. The neighbouring Jangboksan Sculpture Park displays over ten thousands of cherry trees and an expansive view overlooking Jinhae.
Looking for directions to Jinhae Gunhangje Festival? Take a day trip with KKday straight from Seoul or Busan!
2. Yeouido Island
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| Yeouido Spring Flower Festival in Korea (Republic of Korea) |
An island on the River Han, Yeouido is a popular getaway all year-round for city dwellers, and even more so during spring, where crowds flock over to the island for the yearly Yeouido Spring Flower Festival. The star of the show? The cherry blossoms, of course! Bask in the waft of spring flower scents during the day, but stick around till nightfall, and you’ll find yourself surrounded with enchanting festival lights.
3. Namsan Park
Namsan Park is the largest park in Seoul, exhibiting an abundance of walking trails, lush greenery and wildlife. Home to Namsan Mountain and the iconic N Seoul Tower, Namsan Park also offers visitors awe-inspiring views of Seoul.
The Cherry Blossom Path in Namsan Park is the longest avenue of cherry trees in the city, flaunting incredible sights during full bloom in spring. As dusk falls, Namsan Park illuminates its trees, creating a lovely atmosphere for nighttime strolls in the park.
4. Seokchon Lake Park
Just a stone’s throw away from Lotte World, Seokchon Lake Park is dubbed as one of Seoul’s best walking trails. Originally part of the Han River, a land reclamation project separated the river, forming a lake away from the water body. The new lake now has two parts — the west named as Seokchon Lake whilst the east is in Lotte World’s Magic Island.
Seokchon Lake is a great respite away from the bustle of the city, ideal for relaxing strolls or sports under a myriad of cherry trees during spring.
5. Kyung Hee University
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| Kyung Hee University in Seoul in spring (Lacry Mamosa) |
A prestigious private university, the Kyung Hee University in Seoul is already stunning on a day-to-day basis with its classic European-inspired architecture and green gardens. During spring, cherry blossoms veil the university in blush pink, adding to the popularity and beauty of the school as the season approaches.
6. Namcheon-dong
Moving away from Seoul, our next stop is Namcheon-dong, Busan. As with Yeouido Island in Seoul, Namcheon-dong is one of the most popular cherry blossom spots in Busan. The Namcheon-dong cherry blossom road is situated at Namcheon-dong Samik Apartment and flanked with dense cherry trees that, when in full bloom, create a beautiful tunnel of pink flowers during spring.
Not sure what to do at night in Busan? Get on board a night tour bus to explore the city’s most popular attractions.
7. Daejeo Ecological Park
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| (Ryan-so) |
A quick getaway for city dwellers in Busan, Daejeo Ecological Park is yet another beautiful hotspot to marvel at cherry blossoms in Korea. Unique to the area, a sea of canola flowers begin to appear after the cherry blossoms take their exit, leading the park to host a festival in honour of the gold blooms.
8. Dalmaji Hill
Dubbed as one of the most beautiful roads in all of Korea, Dalmaji Hill sits on the slope of Wausan Mountain, offering breathtaking car rides down a path lined with alluring cherry blossoms and pine trees. Located near Haeundae Beach, enjoy scenic sights of mountainous landscapes at Dalmaji Hill before heading down to the beach for a refreshing sea breeze.
For more spring travel activities in Korea:
>> Gwangyang Maehwa Village With Jeonju Railbike One-Day Tour
>> Gwangmyeong Cave, Simni 10 Ri Cherry Blossom Road (Wedding Road), Bundang Jeongja-dong Café Street Day Tour
>> Day-Tour to Jinhae (Departure From Seoul)
For more travel guides around Korea:
>> 6 Stunning Cherry Blossom Spots To Visit This Spring
>> 5 Insta-Worthy Cafes In Seoul That Will Brew You Away
>> 7 Most Affordable Eats In Seoul To Eat Like A King Without Breaking The Bank
