Best time to travel to South Korea

Cherry Blossom in South Korea

South Korea is blessed with cherry blossoms that turn the country into a fairy tale every spring

Best time: April

Cherry Blossom
Cherry Blossom
Cherry Blossom
Cherry Blossom

April is one of the best months to explore South Korea due to the gorgeous cherry blossom season. Trees covered in soft pink and white flowers ornate every region of the country. The blossoming starts in late March in the south and continues well into late April in the north.

The blossoming begins on Jeju Island starting from the end of March, and there are plenty of locations to observe beautiful fruit trees there. Or you can wait for a few weeks and enjoy a beautiful natural spectacle on the mainland.

Dozens of cherry blossom festivals are held every April throughout South Korea. The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most impressive ones. It's held in Changwon City in early April. First, you should visit the local Gyeonghwa station with dozens of cherry trees lining the railroad. You can also stop by Yeojwa Stream and the Jehwangsan Park to observe tender blooms.

Another beautiful event that is worth a trip to the Korean countryside is the Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival held in Hadong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do. The most picturesque sites there include the Simni Cherry Blossom Road, the 4 km route between the Ssanggyesa Temple and Hwagaejangteo Market. The road is lined with 1,200 cherry trees.

Cherry trees are also abundant in the historic city of Gyeongju. The area around Bomun Lake features about 9,000 trees along an 8-km trail. Andong Hahoe Folk Village also offers some entertainment and activities.

Cherry trees start blooming in Seoul in early April. Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is the most popular cherry blossom viewing event there. It features about 1,400 cherry trees as well as plenty of entertainment: exhibitions, traditional arts, street performances, food vendors, and competitions. Take a scenic stroll along the Han River and admire the awakening nature in the capital of South Korea.

Practical info

When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms in South Korea?

The peak cherry blossom season in South Korea occurs between early to mid-April, although blooming times vary depending on location and weather conditions. The blossoms start in late March in the south and last until late April in the north. April is one of the best months to experience cherry blossom season in South Korea because of the mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Plan your trip carefully to ensure you don't miss the stunning views of the blossoms. Show more

What are some scenic locations to observe the cherry blossoms in South Korea?

South Korea offers a variety of places to witness stunning cherry blossom views. Some of the most popular locations are Jeju Island and Seoul, which starts blooming in early April. Jinhae boasts more than 300,000 cherry trees and the Hwagae Valley features beautiful cherry blossom tunnels. Other popular spots include Gyeongju, with over 9,000 trees around Bomun Lake, and Yeouido Island, known for its cherry blossom festival. Andong Hahoe Folk Village also offers a unique chance to combine cultural heritage with cherry blossom viewing. Show more

What is the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, and when does it take place?

Held in Changwon City in early April, the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is one of Korea's most famous festivals, attracting millions of visitors from across the world. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including colorful parades, cultural exhibitions and events, fireworks displays, and more. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the famous spots like Yeojwa Stream, Gyeonghwa Station, and Jehwangsan Park to witness these stunning cherry blossoms up close. Show more

Besides the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, what other events are held during cherry blossom season in Korea?

In addition to the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, visitors can attend other popular events during cherry blossom season in Korea. The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival showcases over 1,400 cherry trees in full bloom, alongside cultural events, performances, and exhibitions. The Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival, held in Hadong-gun Gyeongsangnam-do, features a stunning 4km cherry blossom road. Besides, visitors can also witness various concerts and explore historical sites such as Bulguksa Temple, Andong Hahoe Folk Village, and more. Show more

What other attractions beyond cherry blossom viewing are there for visitors during cherry blossom season in South Korea?

Korea offers plenty of attractions beyond cherry blossom viewing for visitors during the peak season. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site in Gyeongju or bike along the Han River in Seoul to create unforgettable memories. Visit cafes or take boat tours while enjoying breathtaking scenery. Visitors can also indulge in unique Korean cuisine like bold flavors and specialties that come from specific regions. Be sure not to miss all the cultural events and festivities, including musical concerts in many major cities. Show more

Ask a question

Find hotels and airbnbs near Cherry Blossom (Map)

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin