If you think cherry blossoms are exclusive to Japan, think again! South Korea transforms into a literal fairyland of pink and white every spring. Whether you’re a K-Drama fan dreaming of a romantic stroll under the petals or a photographer chasing the perfect "sakura" shot, planning for cherry blossom korea 2026 starts now.

From the elusive "King Cherry" blossoms in Jeju to the iconic Han River tunnels in Seoul, here is everything you need to know about the cherry blossom korea 2026 forecast, the best viewing spots, and how to time your trip perfectly.

Timing is everything when it comes to these fleeting blooms. Based on historical data and early weather patterns, the cherry blossom korea 2026 forecast suggests that flowers will bloom 3 to 8 days earlier than the long-term average.

The "pink wave" typically travels from the warm south (Jeju) up to the northern regions (Incheon and Gangwon).

Note: These are estimates. Weather conditions like sudden rain or unexpected cold snaps can shift these dates by a few days.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit korea for cherry blossom, the "Golden Window" is usually the first week of April.

During this period, you can often catch the tail-end of the blooms in the south (Busan/Gyeongju) and the beginning of the peak in Seoul. If you want to see the flowers at their most "Pinterest-perfect" stage, aim to arrive 5–7 days after the first bloom date for that specific region.

A common question being ask is 'How long is cherry blossom season in Korea?'. On average, the blossoms last for about two weeks from the first sprout to the final petal fall. However, the "peak bloom"—when the trees are at their fluffiest and most vibrant—usually lasts only 4 to 7 days.

Here's a pro tip: If it rains heavily or gets very windy, the "cherry blossom rain" (falling petals) will happen sooner, shortening the viewing window. Plan to visit at the start of the peak to be safe!

As the capital, Seoul offers a mix of modern skylines and traditional palace backdrops. Here are some top spots in Seoul to watch the cherry blossom:

Recommended hotels: Orakai Cheonggyesan Hotel (near Seoul Grand Park), Sofitel Ambassador Seoul Hotel & Serviced Residences (Seokchon), Hotel Nongshim (Namsan), Fairmont Ambassador Seoul (near Yeouido Hangang Park). Visit Traveloka for further details of accommodations.

Busan’s blossoms come with a side of sea breeze. And the top spots you shouldn't miss:

Recommended hotels: Paradise Hotel Busan, Park Hyatt Busan, Hotel Paragon (near Samnak Ecological Park), Signiel Busan (near Dalmaji-Gil Road). Check this if you want to find out supplementary info about other hotels in Busan.

Jeju is home to the King Cherry Blossom, which has the largest petals of any cherry species. If you're hunting for the cherry blossom in Jeju, then Jeonnong-ro is the spot!

Jeonnong-ro is a street in Jeju City that shuts down for a festival, allowing you to walk freely under a canopy of massive blooms.

Recommended hotels: Ramada Plaza Jeju Ocean Front, Lotte City Hotel Jeju, Shinhwa Jeju Shinhwa World Hotels & Resorts. Click this link to check out extra info on hotels around cherry blossom spots in Jeju.

This historic city is arguably the most beautiful place in Korea during spring. The top spots here:

Recommended Hotels: Brown-Dot Hotel Gyeongju, Gyeongju Ran Hanok, Gyeongju Sulleim Pension. Visit this page to observe further info on other hotels in Gyeongju.

Situated in a central lowland valley alongside forested hills and the Geum River, Daejeon is South Korea’s fifth largest metropolis popular for its technology and research institutions.

Although Daejeon isn’t a well-known tourist destination, it presents great spots to view cherry blossoms, like at KAIST University, along the Gapcheon River, and nearby Gyeryongsan National Park.

Recommended hotels: LOTTE City Hotel Daejeon, The Empress Hotel, Hotel Graytone Dunsan. Check this link to elicit additional info on hotels in Daejeon.

To make the most of cherry blossom korea 2026, keep these tips in mind:

Ready to see the pink petals for yourself? Don't wait until the last minute. Start planning your cherry blossom korea 2026 adventure today!

Check out Traveloka for the best deals on flights to Seoul and hotels across South Korea. Use code 'JOMJALAN' on the app to save more on your first spring booking!