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Cherry blossom season in South Korea is a magical time as the country shrugs off the winter chill and re-emerges bearing lovely colors and scents. The blossom typically comes into full bloom for one or two weeks, so mark the dates and make plan to visit the country when it turns positively pink.

The cherry blossom season in 2020 was pretty much a gloomy affair with the pandemic looming large in the background. However, we have high hopes for the next one in spring 2021.

Here are the best places to watch the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the expected period of blossoming based on the schedule last year. The dates could still change due to the weather patterns, so we’ll update them when we have new information!

Jeju Island

south korea cherry blossom

Jeju island is the earliest to be visited by a pink spring as the first bloom is predicted to arrive late March. Between the lush seaside sceneries and the fresh seafood you’ll be gorging here, you’ll also get to see some of the biggest blossoms from King Cherry trees that dot the island. Beautiful as they are, this variety with large petals only come to full bloom for two or three days in early April, so time your visit to coincide with their arrival.

First bloom: Late March

Jinhae

south korea cherry blossom

An hour bus ride from Busan, the port city of Jinhae comes alive during a ten-day festival celebrating the arrival of cherry blossom. Jinhae Gunhangjae Festival typically welcome visitors with military band parade, music performances, and the star attraction, cherry blossom trees. While the festivities were cancelled in 2020, they may get a chance to bloom again in 2021 Sounds like a dream trip? Book your ticket to Busan now!

First bloom: Early April

Hwagae

south korea cherry blossom

From Busan, take a bus to Hwagae Bus Station, just steps away from a street market where the Hwagae festival takes place. Amuse yourself with unique souvenirs and street food at the market before making way to the famous 10-ri Cherry Blossom Road. Known as “Wedding Road”, legend has it that lovers who walk down the lane while holding hands will get married and live happily together.

Whether you visit Hwagae with your partner or on your own, a leisurely stroll under the archway of cherry blossom trees is definitely a must do here.

First bloom: Early April

Gyeongju

south korea cherry blossom

The city lives and breathes history, as it houses the biggest number of ruins and artifacts in South Korea. Dubbed “Museum Without Walls”, Gyeongju is a favorite stop for history buffs and fans of period dramas.

For a twist to your sightseeing trip, sign up for Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon. Running alongside participants from all around the world, you’ll be amply rewarded with refreshing spring air and rows of cherry blossom trees paving the way. The event was cancelled in 2020, but we’ll keep an eye on the one next year.

First bloom: Early April

Seoul

south korea cherry blossom

Cherry blossom sweeps through Seoul early April and the capital responds by holding several festivals all over the city. Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is a popular one that takes place on the island of Yeouido on the Han River. Thousands of cherry blossom trees stand as backdrop for the exhibitions, performances, and fireworks that light up the festive event.

For a quietly dramatic scene, join the admiring visitors at Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival in Eastern Seoul. Nothing can beat the vision of petals floating on Seokchonhosu lake that wraps around Lotte World.

Explore the city away from the festival revelers and you’ll find that there are plenty prime spots to admire to delicate bloom. Head to Changgyeonggung Palace for an exquisite display of cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, azaleas, and other floral beauties.

First bloom: Early April