Korea is renowned for its exquisite cherry blossoms, and there are numerous locations to witness them in all their glory in the month of April. Below are some of the popular Korean destinations to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
Yeouido Spring Flower Festival: This festival is held in Yeouido Park in Seoul and is one of the most sought-after cherry blossom events in Korea. The park is adorned with gorgeous cherry blossom trees, and there are several cultural and food events to relish.
Jinhae Gunhangje Festival: Located in the southern part of Korea, the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival is a grand cherry blossom festival celebrated in the city of Jinhae. The festival is well-known for the beautiful cherry blossom trees that line the city's streets.
Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon: A unique event that combines a marathon with a cherry blossom viewing experience, the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon takes the runners through the picturesque cherry blossom-lined streets of Gyeongju.
Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival: Jeju Island is famed for its stunning natural beauty, and during the cherry blossom season, the island is bedecked with beautiful cherry blossom trees. The Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated in multiple locations around the island.
Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival: Situated in the heart of Seoul, Seokchon Lake is a breathtaking lake surrounded by magnificent cherry blossom trees during the cherry blossom season. The festival features cultural events and food booths to relish.
[ When do cherry blossoms usually bloom in Korea? ]
In Korea, cherry blossoms typically flower from late March to mid-April, but the exact period of blooming can vary depending on the area and the weather in a given year. The blooming time may also vary depending on the type of cherry blossom tree, as there are many different varieties that bloom at slightly different times. In the southern parts of Korea, such as Jeju Island and Busan, cherry blossoms usually bloom earlier than in other regions. In these areas, the blooming period generally starts around the end of March, and the peak blooming time is usually during the first week of April. In central regions like Daejeon and Seoul, cherry blossoms usually start to bloom in early April, and the peak time is typically around mid-April. In mountainous regions such as Gyeongju, cherry blossoms may bloom a little later, with the peak period usually occurring around the third week of April. It's worth noting that the blooming period can differ slightly depending on the weather in a particular year, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecasts or official cherry blossom festival schedules to determine the best time to visit.
[ other flowers that bloom in Korea during April ]
Azaleas: Azaleas are among the most well-liked flowers of spring in Korea, and they usually blossom in the period from late April to early May. Some of the finest locations to witness azaleas are Goryeosan Mountain in Ganghwa, Jeju Island, and Gwangyang Maehwa Village.
Forsythia: Forsythia is a vibrant yellow flower that usually blooms in early April, preceding the cherry blossoms. Some of the best locations to see forsythia are Seoul Forest and Namsan Park in Seoul.
Magnolias: Magnolias are another much-loved spring flower in Korea, and they usually blossom in the period from late March to early April. Some of the finest locations to witness magnolias are Yeouido Park in Seoul and Seokchon Lake in Jamsil.
Tulips: Tulips are a stunning flower that usually blooms in the period from late April to early May. Some of the finest locations to see tulips are Everland in Yongin and the Taean Tulip Festival.