Guide to Cherry Blossom Season in South Korea 2023

Spring in South Korea is a time of celebration! From December to February, you can witness the world twinkling with snow, and from March to May, you can enjoy a stunning pastel-pink paradise. Cherry blossoms, known as "beot-kkeot" in Korean, can be found everywhere, creating a breathtaking sight from sunrise to sunset. If you plan to spend your spring break in South Korea in 2023, here are some places you won't want to miss for beautiful cherry blossom views!

Seoul

Spring in Seoul is a wonderful season to visit, with its warm weather and stunning cherry blossom views. While popular spots like N Seoul Tower and Bukchon Hanok Village are worth a visit, outdoor attractions offer the best opportunities to appreciate the beauty of springtime scenery. Seoul Forest, with its pink and lavender cherry blossoms, is a must-see destination. And don't forget to wear traditional Korean clothing for the perfect spring photo while strolling around the royal palace's cherry trees!

Cherry blossom dates: March 24 - April 10

Popular hotels in Seoul

Busan

Looking for a unique way to experience Korea's cherry blossom season? Come to Busan and enjoy a combination of seafood and cherry blossom viewing! This seaside city boasts numerous cherry blossom viewing spots, and you can even join a day tour to see them all in one day. Don't miss Namcheondong Street, with its cherry-covered trees, and Dalmaji Hill, offering incredible views. For a special spring afternoon, cycle with friends in Samnak Park and ride through a beautiful cherry blossom tunnel. Mark your calendars as the cherry blossoms will be in full bloom from March 22 to 28.

Cherry blossom dates: March 22nd to 28th

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Jeju

Make your spring trip to Jeju Island even more enchanting by taking in the breathtaking cherry blossom scenery that adorns every path. Don't miss the Annual Cherry Blossom Festival, featuring live performances, exhibitions, parades, and other exciting activities that are open to everyone. Jeju is also the birthplace of the "king cherry," a variety with larger blooms that are only available for about three days. If you're hoping to catch a glimpse of these stunning trees, head to Seogwipo downtown and around Jeju Sports Complex.

Cherry blossom dates: March 18th - March 24th

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Nami Island

Nami Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Korea, offering year-round beauty that varies with the seasons. During spring, this romantic island in Chuncheon is the perfect day trip for cherry blossom viewing. Head to Sakura Tree Street, dress your best, and snap lots of photos. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the stunning views all to yourself. A must-do on the Nami Island Day Tour is the Gangchon Rail Bike, offering a cute and fun ride along a tree-lined railroad.

Popular hotels in Nami Island

Jinhae

The highly popular Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae is held for ten days every year in honor of Admiral Yi Sun Sin, making it the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring! For a special cherry blossom viewing experience, consider taking the four-hour trip from Seoul to explore the sights of Jinhae. Take a romantic stroll on the Romantic Bridge over the Yeojwacheon River and admire the illuminated cherry trees, or snap some great photos of the stunning line of cherry trees surrounding Gyeonghwa Station. Don't miss out on this incredible experience!

Cherry blossom dates: March 26 - April 2

Popular hotel in Jinhae, Changwon

Daegu

If you're drawn to quieter cities like Seoul or Jeju, consider visiting Daegu. This charming city offers beautiful photo opportunities at Chimsanjeong Pavilion when the cherry blossoms  are in full bloom during spring. For a magical experience, head to Daegu E-World Cherry Blossom Spot, where you can enjoy cherry blossoms along with games, attractions, and shows. Don't miss out on the fun!

Cherry blossom dates: March 23 - 31

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Jeonju

Jeonju City is renowned for its delicious Korean cuisine, but did you know that it's also home to some of the most stunning cherry blossoms in South Korea? One of the best places to experience these beautiful blooms is Wansan Park, a flower-filled park where you can also admire the king cherry trees. The landscape is adorned with cherry blossoms, azaleas, and other spring flowers, creating a breathtaking sight. In addition to the park, there are several scenic cherry blossom routes around Jeonju that you can explore as you wander through the charming city.

Cherry blossom dates: March 18th - April 5th

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Gyeongju

Gyeongju, a city in southern Korea, is another great destination for cherry blossom viewing. The city hosts its own Sakura Festival, drawing visitors to its many prime viewing spots, particularly during springtime. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike flock to Gyeongju to admire the captivating beauty of the cherry blossoms, especially at Lake Bomun. Here, you can camp with friends, cycle along the river, and savor delicious food from the festival's food carts. For more cherry blossom sightseeing, head to the Cheomsongdae Observatory to enjoy the stunning views of the cherry trees.

Bloom time: March 21st to 31st

Popular hotel in Gyeongju

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*Note: bloom times are just estimations, bloom time may vary depending on weather conditions.