Best Places to See During the Cherry Blossom Season in South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s most cherished landmarks, and during cherry blossom season, it becomes even more magical. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, the palace complex features grand gates, ornamental bridges, tranquil ponds, and tree-lined pathways that come to life each spring with soft pink petals.
One of the best ways to experience Gyeongbokgung in spring is by renting a hanbok, Korea’s traditional dress. Not only does it enhance the aesthetic of your visit, but it also grants you free entry to the palace. As you stroll past centuries-old structures in flowing garments surrounded by blossoms, you’ll feel transported to another era — a beautiful blend of historical elegance and natural serenity.

Try to visit early in the morning or on a weekday to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before larger tour groups arrive. The soft morning light filtering through the cherry blossoms creates stunning photo opportunities, especially near Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, a small hexagonal gazebo set over a lotus pond framed by trees.
Gyeongbokgung is conveniently located in central Seoul, making it easy to include in a spring sightseeing itinerary. Nearby, you’ll find Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional homes line blossom-dotted alleys, and the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a modern urban waterway where cherry blossoms arch gently over walking paths. For a full day of Seoul in bloom, you can seamlessly explore all three locations on foot.

If you’re heading to Busan in spring, Dalmaji Hill offers a peaceful, scenic cherry blossom experience with ocean views. Often compared to Montmartre in Paris, this charming hill near Haeundae Beach features a winding road lined with cherry trees, cozy cafés, and art galleries. It’s a favorite among locals for romantic walks and quiet contemplation during bloom season.

The combination of cherry blossoms and sea breeze makes Dalmaji Hill truly unique. You’ll get sweeping views of the East Sea as you stroll beneath soft pink petals. At sunrise or sunset, the light reflecting off the water and flowers creates a dreamlike atmosphere that’s ideal for both professional photography and peaceful solo walks. The natural contrast between the blue ocean and pale pink blossoms is something you won’t easily forget.

Dalmaji Hill also offers access to nearby attractions that can enrich your day trip. Visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched dramatically on seaside cliffs and surrounded by cherry trees in spring. Or take a ride on the Haeundae Blueline Park coastal train, which gives you panoramic cherry blossom views from the comfort of a scenic tram. Whether you’re walking, riding, or sipping coffee at a hilltop café, Dalmaji Hill delivers one of the most relaxing and visually stunning cherry blossom experiences in South Korea.

No list of cherry blossom destinations in Korea is complete without Jinhae, home to the country’s largest and most famous cherry blossom festival. Located in Changwon, a city in the southern part of South Korea, the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival attracts more than a million visitors annually. During peak bloom in early April, the entire city is blanketed in pink — with over 360,000 cherry trees lighting up the streets, parks, and riversides.

The two most iconic spots are Yeojwacheon Stream, where blossoms arch over the canal and create a fairy-tale tunnel, and Gyeonghwa Station, a former railway stop now famous for photos of train tracks blanketed in petals. Both sites are especially popular at dusk, when lanterns illuminate the blossoms and create a romantic, glowing atmosphere.

The festival isn’t just about scenery — it’s deeply tied to Jinhae’s naval history. The event began as a memorial for Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a national hero, and still includes military parades, cultural performances, and a naval academy open house, offering a unique blend of tradition and celebration. You’ll also find food stalls, craft markets, and live music throughout the city.
Because of its popularity, it’s essential to plan ahead. Book your hotel well in advance, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and consider arriving early in the day or visiting on a weekday to enjoy the charm without the full crowds. Jinhae can be reached easily from Busan (about 1 hour by bus) or from Seoul (approx. 3.5 hours via KTX and local transit), making it a perfect spring day trip or overnight stop during cherry blossom season.

Tucked next to the towering Lotte World Tower in eastern Seoul, Seokchon Lake is one of the city’s most scenic and peaceful cherry blossom spots. The lake features a circular walking path surrounded by over a thousand cherry trees, forming a soft pink canopy reflected on the water’s surface. This calm, elegant setting is perfect for a quiet stroll, a romantic walk, or a springtime picnic under the petals.

The lake is divided into two parts — the East Lake and West Lake — connected by a short bridge. Both offer unique viewing angles, and there are benches and photo spots throughout. The juxtaposition of nature with modern Seoul’s skyline makes Seokchon Lake a particularly photogenic destination, ideal for both early morning and golden hour photography.

Seokchon is also home to the Lotte World Mall, a massive complex with cafés, restaurants, and even an indoor theme park. After enjoying the blossoms, visitors can unwind with shopping, local food, or panoramic views from the Lotte World Tower’s observation deck — one of the tallest buildings in the world.

Spring weekends can get busy, so for the most peaceful experience, visit on a weekday morning. The lake is easily accessible via Seokchon or Jamsil subway stations, making it a convenient stop during a full day of cherry blossom sightseeing in Seoul.

In Jeonju Hanok Village, cherry blossoms meet the heart of Korean tradition. The village is home to over 800 well-preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses), and in spring, their graceful rooftops are dusted with delicate pink petals. Walking through its quiet alleys during cherry blossom season feels like being in a living painting — the contrast of dark wooden eaves and soft blossoms is serene and timeless.

Jeonju’s charm lies in its authentic, small-town atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want to slow down and connect with culture. You can rent a hanbok and take leisurely walks through the village, sip on traditional Korean tea in a tearoom, or participate in craft workshops like calligraphy, fan-making, or Korean paper art — all while cherry petals drift softly through the air.

Food lovers will also find joy here. Jeonju is considered the birthplace of bibimbap, and its local markets and street stalls serve delicious variations of this iconic dish alongside other regional specialties like Jeonju-style makgeolli and handmade tteok (rice cakes).

Jeonju is around 1.5 to 2 hours from Seoul by KTX or express bus, making it a comfortable and culturally rich overnight or weekend trip. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to pair cherry blossom viewing with deep cultural immersion and a more peaceful spring escape.