Cherry Blossoms in Seoul
After the frosty cold weather of Winter passes, the trees begin blooming again, signifying a new season. In Spring, cherry blossoms in Seoul are an attraction in itself. It’s no wonder that Spring is considered one of the peak seasons in Korea.
Curious as to where to find the perfect spot to sightsee? We have curated a list of 7 spots where you can either jostle with the busy crowd, or savour the quiet silence.
1. Yeouido
Yeouido is a popular weekend spot among locals who enjoy sitting along the river with beer, fried chicken and ramyeon. It’s swarmed with visitors in Spring. The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival not only features the famous cherry blossoms but also other spring flowers. Admire the beauty of azaleas, forsythia, and royal azaleas, all in full bloom.
If your schedule permits, stay till the evening for a light show. You won’t be disappointed, as the flowers will be illuminated, adding a beautiful backdrop to the lively street performances.
Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival 2023
Dates: April 1 – April 15 2023 (TBC)
How to get there: National Assembly Subway Station or Yeouinaru Subway Station
2. Seoul Forest
Seoul Forest Park is a vast urban park that is also the third largest park in Seoul. Furthermore, it is a natural habitat for more than 400,000 trees and 100,000 animals. Notably, in Spring, the numerous cherry blossoms end up resembling fluffy clouds.
Divided into five areas, the park comprises the Cultural Art Park, Ecological Forest, Nature Experience Study Field, Wetlands Ecological Field, and the Han River Waterside Park. If you enter the park through Entrance 2, there are a cluster of cherry blossom trees across the Geoul Pond in the Cultural Art Park Zone. There are more trees in the Nature Experience Study Field and Ecological Forest as well.
How to get there: 5-minute walk from Seoul Forest Station (Exit 3)
3. Seokcheon Lake
Seokcheon Lake is in Jamsil, where Lotte World Tower is. Each Spring, there is a free Cherry Blossom Festival at the lake. The banks of the lake are adorned with numerous cherry trees that burst into a spectrum of colors.
To experience the full glory of the blossoms, visit on a bright day. This is because you’ll be able to see the reflection of the cherry blossom trees on the lake’s surface. However, it’s to be expected that there will be a large crowd and some congestion. Nonetheless, the lake is big enough for you to take a selfie with the trees!
Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival 2023
Date: April 1 – April 10 2023 (TBC)
How to get there: Jamsil Station, Exit 3
4. Changdeok Palace
Many people naturally think of Gyeongbokgung when it comes to Royal Palaces in Seoul. However, did you know that there are actually five Royal Palaces? The natural beauty of cherry blossoms is complemented perfectly by the traditional Korean ambiance of Seoul’s royal palaces.
To avoid the bulk of the crowd, consider going to Changdeokgung Palace, the second-largest palace in Seoul. The palace boasts a vast secret garden that was exclusively for the King and his inner circle. Now, it is free for anyone to visit. What’s more, its magnificent cherry blossom trees make strolling through the secret garden much more meaningful in Spring. Do note that only a limited number of visitors are allowed each day.
All the Royal Palaces waive their entrance fees to those wearing Hanbok. Hence, you can rent a hanbok to complete your quintessentially Korean experience.
How to get there: 10-minute walk from Jongno-3ga (Exit 6) or 5-minute walk from Anguk Station (Exit 3)
5. Seoul Grand Park
Seoul Grand Park offers a stunning view of the cherry blossoms against the backdrop of lush green hills. It’s home to various attractions such as Seoul Land Amusement Park, Seoul Zoo and healing forest. The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and Children’s Museum of Art is located there as well.
Take a leisurely walk around, participate in the festival activities, and marvel at cultural events. If you want to relish the beauty of the cherry blossoms, get some snacks and coffee from the cafe or kiosks, and find a serene spot to chill at.
How to get there: Seoul Grand Park Station (Exit 2)
6. Seoul National Cemetery
A cemetery might be the last place to go to sightsee, but the Seoul National Cemetery is a lesser-known spot for cherry blossom viewing. Every April, the cemetery pays tribute to the fallen soldiers of war through suyang, a ceremony under the weeping cherry trees. The majestic weeping blossoms, at their peak bloom, represent the protection of the country and hold great significance.
How to get there: Seoul Grand Park Station (Exit 2)
7. Jungnangcheon Stream Cherry Blossom Road
Another underrated gem is Jungnangcheon Stream, where you can consider if you don’t particularly enjoy squeezing with the crowd. This hidden attraction is lined with forsythia trees on both sides and not only has a 5KM long rose tunnel, but also a cherry blossom tunnel.
The annual Seoul Rose Festival is also held there each Spring.
How to get there: 5-minute walk from Taerung Entrance Station (Exit 8) or 10-minute walk from Junghwa Station (Exit 3)
Want to see more than Cherry Blossoms in Seoul? Take a Day Trip during your Korea trip!
