By Lin Foo, on January 19, 2017

Chic a Cherry Blossom: Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Korea 2017

Every spring, travellers eagerly await the blooming of cherry blossoms in Korea. [Hope you 90’s kids got my Savage Garden reference ;p ] Much like hanami in Japan, everyone gets excited about the romantic transformation every spring in Korea. Timing is everything (these pretty blossoms aren’t in full bloom for long!), so you’ll need to plan with care. Check our Cherry Blossom Forecast 2017 infographic to help you plan your trip in time to catch the pretty sakura blooms in different parts of Korea. Book early as this is one of the best times to visit Korea and therefore very popular with travellers. As we get closer to the sakura season, keep your eye on official updates as – nature being nature – there might be changes to the dates compared to the forecast.

But all that effort is worthwhile, as you’ll quickly realize when you finally witness the magical spring festival in person. And there’s more to this seasonal spectacle than gorgeous scenery – join in one of the cherry blossom festivals dotted around the country to soak up the fun and lively festivities! Where are the best places to see cherry blossoms in Korea? Here’s a roundup of the 5 best viewing spots and accompany festivals in 2017.

Cherry Blossom Forecast 2017

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Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Korea 2017

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1) Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival in Gunhangje

A 10-day celebration not to be missed

2017 Cherry Blossom Forecast dates: 26 March – 2 April

Jinhae Cherry Blossoms in KoreaJinhae Cherry Blossom Festival | CC 2.0 / Sam Ng 

The laidback port town of Jinhae goes full out to celebrate its yearly Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival! You’ll enjoy a sight unlike any other in this picturesque town, where you’ll find cherry blossoms peppered all along the streets.

Its plenty beautiful wherever you stroll, but there are two sites in particular that stand out. They’re among the best spots to view cherry blossoms in Korea in their full glory. Head to Yeojwacheon Stream and the aptly-named Romance Bridge.

And don’t miss out on the festivities either – there’s plenty of fun to be had with events in the 10-day festival, like the opening ceremony, street parade, fireworks show, live music festival and lights show at night.

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How to get there: Catch a direct flight to Incheon, catch an express bus ride to from the airport Jinhae, followed by a bus or taxi to the park. [/tab]

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2) Cherry Blossoms on Romantic Jeju Island

A postcard-perfect scenery awaits

2017 Cherry Blossom Forecast dates: 23 – 30 March

jeju-king-cherry-blossomsJeju King Cherry Blossom Spring Festival | CC 2.0 / Republic of Korea

The scenic island of Jeju becomes even more mesmerising in spring, when rows of cherry blossom trees burst into bloom. The island’s king cherry blossoms are regarded as some of the most beautiful in the country, so come ready with your cameras to capture postcard-worthy travel shots.

Take a relaxing walk under the canopy of pink and white petals in Jeju Island. When you’re done strolling join in the festivities, which includes an annual cherry blossom flower exhibition and live performances.

Here’s a heads-up – this trip will require meticulous planning, as the cherry blossoms at Jeju Island are in full bloom for a duration of just two to three days!

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How to get there: Catch a direct flight to Jeju Island. Once on the island, hop on a bus or taxi to your destination of choice.[/tab]

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3) Daegu Yongyeonsa Temple Cherry Blossom Street

A quiet wonderland

2017 Cherry Blossom Forecast dates: 26 March – 2 April

daegu-cherry-blossomsYongyeonsa Temple Cherry Blossom Street | CC 2.0 / Dirk Tussing 

Next on the list of great places to see cherry blossoms in Korea is a spiritual spot. The Yongyeonsa Temple is located at the foot of the Biseul Mountain in Daegu. During spring, both sides of the gateway into the temple are lined with cherry blossoms, making for a fairytale-like scene. The buddhist temple was rebuilt in 1728 after being partially destroyed and today it contains some important cultural artefacts like stone pagodas.

Right next to the temple is the famous Okyeon-ji pond that offers breathtaking views throughout the year.

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How to get there: Catch a flight to Daegu. Once you’ve arrived, hop on a bus or taxi to your destination of choice.[/tab]

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4) Cherry Blossom Festival in Yeouido

Blossoms in a vibrant atmosphere

2017 Cherry Blossom Forecast dates: 4 April – 13 April

yeouido-cherry-blossom-koreaYeouiseo Cherry Blossoms | CC 2.0 / ReneAdamos 

Bask in the lively atmosphere and picturesque scenery of Yeouiseo-ro Street, which comes alive during the sakura season every year. It is not only a great viewing spot, but there’s lots of fun and games to enjoy at the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, so there’s no chance to get restless.

Lined with 1,600 cherry blossom trees, the street offers a picture-perfect setting that’s just right for a leisurely stroll; you’ll be surrounded by pretty flowers of pink and while enjoying views out to the Han River.

With live performances, exhibitions and street food stalls lining the street, the ambience is delightfully vibrant during the day (but do be prepared to brush shoulders with the crowds!) When night beckons, the vibe changes; romance fills the air as the street is beautifully illuminated by landscape lighting.

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How to get there: Catch a direct flight to Incheon. From the airport, hop on an express or all-stop train, airport bus or taxi to Seoul, followed by a taxi or train ride to Yeouido Station.[/tab]

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5) Seoul Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival

There’s something for every traveller

2017 Cherry Blossom Forecast dates: 13 April

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Seokchon Lake | CC 2.0Hwan Hyeok Kim 

Can’t tear yourself away from the charms of Seoul? Thankfully, you won’t have to travel out far to enjoy the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival near Seoul.

There’s something here for every traveller here, especially for family travellers vacationing with their little ones in tow. The festival throws out plenty of fun-filled activities ranging from traditional folk games and exhibitions, to face painting contests and live performances. Making spring one of the best times to visit Korea as you can simply explore Seoul on a short trip and still have a chance to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

And don’t leave just when the three-day event draws to an end – carve out time for a day of family fun at the enchanting Lotte World (it’s located a 20-minute ride away).

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How to get there: Catch a direct flight to Incheon, before catching an express or all-stop train, airport bus or taxi to Seoul. From Seoul, hop on a taxi, or catch a train ride to Jamsil Station.[/tab]

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You Might Also Like to know the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan and Korea! Read Next:

[button style=’blue’ icon=’entypo-forward’ fullwidth=’true’ url=’https://travelblog.expedia.com.sg/activities/hanami-cherry-blossoms-japan/’] Hanami Guide: Top Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan 2017[/button]

[button style=’blue’ icon=’entypo-forward’ fullwidth=’true’ url=’https://travelblog.expedia.com.sg/activities/cherry-blossoms-taiwan/’]Top Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan 2017[/button]