Japan might be the first place that comes to mind when you hear about cherry blossoms, but every year, South Korea also blooms in pink with the blossoming cherry trees. In South Korea, it’s called the beotkkot season and people usually celebrate beotkkot by picnicking with friends, families, or loved ones under the trees. Starting in Jeju, the cherry trees blossom for a period that lasts for no longer than 10 days. It means that you have to plan your trip carefully if you plan to catch the peak of the blooming period. This guide will give you a few ideas on where to enjoy your cherry blossoms viewing in South Korea and when to visit it

If you plan on catching an early spring in South Korea, Jeju Island is the place to visit. The native Jeju flowering trees, also known as king cherry trees, will cover this island as early as March with their large petals. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy the famous seafood dishes or visit the Aqua Planet Jeju, the largest aquarium in Asia. You can also opt to join the guided tours we have on offer. Reach Jeju by taking KTX train from Seoul to Yeosu Station (covered by Korail Pass) continued by a ferry ride from Yeosu to Jeju Island.

This is one for the lovebirds. This tiny island has been a destination for lovers from all over the world ever since it was used as a shooting location for the famous K-drama: Winter Sonata. Other than the magnificent bloom of the cherry flowers and colorful ginkgo trees, you can also expect to find a theme park, shooting range, roller skating rink, and various water sports for you to enjoy. You can visit Nami Island by riding a ferry or a cable car from Gapyeong Ferry Wharf in Chuncheon (not covered by the Korail Pass).

The capital city of South Korea offers a lot of options when it comes to enjoying cherry blossoms: Namsan Park boasts the longest cherry blossom covered road, Yeouido Hangang Park hosts the most famous and largest cherry blossom festival in Seoul, while the beautiful Seokchon Lake Park lets you experience a lively ambiance with live performances and exhibitions. To enjoy Seoul to its fullest extent, it is recommended that you get a Discover Seoul Card. This pass gives you free access to over 30 top local destinations such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsangol Hanok Village, COEX Aquarium, and more. To get around easily, be sure to purchase the Seoul Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass. Seoul can be reached from Busan by taking the KTX train. In fact, it is one of the most popular train routes in the country (covered by Korail Pass).

The historic city of Gyeongju offers a unique cherry blossom viewing experience: you get to run a marathon under the flowers! The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon is a yearly marathon event where tourists from all over the world are invited to participate as the locals celebrate to welcome the fresh spring air. The city also hosts the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival on the shore of the beautiful Bomun Lake, where over 9,000 cherry trees come into bloom. The lake is located within the Bomun Tourist Complex and you can expect to find several theme parks, amusement centers, hotels, resorts, and other attractions. To get to Gyeongju, you can ride the KTX from either Seoul or Busan by purchasing the Korail Pass.

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is the largest spring festival in South Korea, attracting more than 2 million tourists each year. Not only will you get to enjoy the magnificent cherry blossoms, you will also see the streets come to life with various parades. Be sure to visit Yeojwacheon Stream, home to the famous Romance Bridge, which is lined by cherry trees on both of its sides. Crossing the bridge is considered a must-do for the festival. Yeojwacheon Stream itself gets illuminated at night by colorful lights, lasers, and lanterns, making it a must visit. At Sokcheonpong Port, you’ll get to see a magnificent firework show at the peak of the festival. To enjoy a bird’s-eye-view of Jinhae, visit the mesmerizing Anmingogae Hill that is famous for its magical atmosphere. You can get to Jinhae by taking an intercity bus (not covered by Korail Pass) from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal or joining the tour we have on offer.

Located about 2.5-hour drive south of Seoul, Jecheon is a beautiful lakeside town with clean air, clear waters, and majestic mountain range. Every April, the Cheongpungho Cherry Blossoms Festival is held on the shore of Cheongpungho Lake, where the cherry trees are in full bloom. You can also expect to find exhibitions, performances, and other activities such as bungee jumping and various water sports during the festival. Seoul to Jecheon train services, operated by Korail Mugunghwa, depart from Cheongnyangni Station (covered by the Korail Pass).

If you want to enjoy the cherry blossoms among traditional Korean houses, then Jeonju’s Hanok Village is the place to visit. Over 700 traditional houses are located in the village, making it a popular tourist destination all year round. Wansan Park, a beautiful picnic area for the locals, is also a great place to enjoy the boom of the cherry blossoms while you’re in Jeonju. Various trains operated by Korail stops at Jeonju Station so you can easily reach the city if you get yourself a Korail Pass.

A week after the peak blooming period ends in Seoul, the cherry trees begin to bloom in Incheon. The most popular spot to enjoy the cherry tree blossoms in Incheon is the Incheon Grand Park, where a cherry blossom viewing festival is held every year. You can also visit Jayu Park near Incheon Chinatown to enjoy the cherry blossoms and dine at one of the many chinese restaurants located near the park. While you’re in Incheon, don’t forget to visit WonderBox, the carnival-themed indoor amusement park where you can enjoy various parades and masquerade shows. Reach Incheon by taking a short subway ride from Seoul (not covered by the Korail Pass).

As there are many festivals held in South Korea in spring, it is recommended that you visit more than one festival while you’re there to make the most of your trip. Purchase a Korail Pass to explore various destinations more simply and enjoy a truly hassle-free cherry blossom viewing experience in South Korea. Start planning your trip now!