Spring in South Korea is a magical time when the streets, parks, and mountain trails are painted in delicate shades of pink and white. Sakura season, known as cherry blossom season, is one of the most anticipated times of the year, drawing locals and tourists alike to admire the fleeting beauty of these blooms. If you’re planning to experience South Korea’s sakura season, here’s everything you need to know!
Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in South Korea
Cherry blossoms bloom at different times across the country, generally between late March and mid-April. Here’s a rough guide to when you can expect peak bloom in different cities:
Jeju Island: Late March – Early April
Busan & Gyeongju: Early April
Daegu & Daejeon: Early to Mid-April
Seoul & Incheon: Early to Mid-April
Gangwon Province: Mid to Late April
Since cherry blossoms last only about a week once they bloom, it’s best to check forecasts ahead of your trip!
Top Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Jinhae Gunhangje Festival (Jinhae, Changwon) – The most famous cherry blossom festival in Korea, featuring stunning tunnels of sakura and a picturesque bridge over Yeojwacheon Stream. Gyeonghwa Station, an old railway station, is another iconic photo spot where cherry blossoms form a pink canopy over the train tracks.
Seokchon Lake (Seoul) – A dreamy location with cherry blossoms reflecting beautifully on the water, perfect for a romantic stroll. The lake is adjacent to Lotte World Tower, making it a great stop for both nature and cityscape lovers.
Namsan Park & Seoul Tower (Seoul) – Enjoy a breathtaking view of the city with cherry blossoms framing the iconic Seoul Tower. The walking trails around Namsan Park offer a peaceful atmosphere, and the cable car ride up provides an even more stunning view.
Gyeongju’s Bomun Lake (Gyeongju) – A historic city with stunning sakura-lined paths and traditional Korean architecture in the background. The lake area is perfect for bike rides, and nearby attractions like Bulguksa Temple and Donggung Palace add cultural depth to your visit.
Hwagae Cherry Blossom Road (Hadong County) – A 4-km stretch of road near Jirisan Mountain known for its “wedding road,” where couples walk under cherry blossom tunnels. This hidden gem offers a more tranquil and picturesque setting away from the crowds.
Yeouido Hangang Park (Seoul) – One of the most popular cherry blossom spots in the capital, with over 1,800 trees lining the paths along the Han River. The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival takes place here, featuring cultural performances, food stalls, and night illuminations.
Jeju Island’s Jeonnong-ro Street (Jeju City) – The best cherry blossom viewing spot on Jeju Island, with giant King Cherry Trees, which have larger and more vibrant petals compared to the common variety. The island’s Hallasan Mountain and Seogwipo area also provide fantastic sakura scenery with a natural backdrop.
Gyeongpo Lake (Gangneung) – A stunning coastal destination where cherry blossoms surround the peaceful lake. The nearby Gyeongpo Beach is a great place to enjoy the blossoms with the soothing sounds of waves in the background.
Festivals & Activities
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival: The biggest and most popular festival with cultural performances, parades, and light displays.
Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival: A coastal festival where you can enjoy cherry blossoms by the beach.
Han River Picnic: Bring a mat, some Korean snacks, and enjoy a picnic under the blossoms along Seoul’s Han River parks.
Temple Visits: Temples like Bulguksa in Gyeongju or Jogyesa in Seoul become even more serene with sakura petals falling around them.
Travel Tips
Book accommodations early: Sakura season is peak travel time, so hotels and guesthouses fill up fast!
Check the cherry blossom forecast: The bloom period changes each year, so follow updates from the Korea Meteorological Administration.
Avoid weekend crowds: Visit popular spots on weekdays if you prefer a quieter experience.
Capture the moment: Bring a camera or smartphone with good photo settings to capture the stunning scenery.