By / Edited and reported by the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Lifestyle Network Editorial Team
When spring arrives and cherry blossoms bloom, Japan’s stunning sakura scenery might be the first thing that comes to mind. But South Korea, located at a similar mid-latitude as Japan, also offers breathtaking cherry blossom views. The cherry blossom season in South Korea typically occurs every year in March and April. Among the many cherry blossom viewing spots, the over five-kilometer-long cherry blossom avenue on Seoul’s Yeouido Island is particularly enchanting, and the famous “Chinhang Naval Port Festival” in South Gyeongsang Province is an absolute must-see when visiting South Korea for cherry blossoms—truly awe-inspiring.
Beautiful cherry blossom scenery in South Korea. (Image provided / Revival Airlines)
● Yeouido Peng Qin Chen
In Seoul’s Yeouido, a beautiful cherry blossom season unfolds centered around Yuyeon-ro. The nearly ten-kilometer-long Yuyeon-ro is lined with more than 1,400 cherry blossom trees. Every spring, they burst into bloom, forming a long, dreamlike tunnel of blossoms that leaves visitors amazed. Additionally, the “Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival,” held every April, draws large crowds of cherry blossom enthusiasts. At night, colorful lights illuminate the blossoms, allowing for a magical night cherry blossom experience.
● Jinhae Cherry Blossom Tunnel
When Jinhae’s 220,000 cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, the entire city becomes covered in a sea of white petals. Although the whole of Jinhae is famous for its cherry blossoms, some of the most renowned spots include Anmin Road, the Naval Base Headquarters, Deokhwa Mountain Park, and Yujwa Stream. Anmin Road is a 5.6-kilometer-long cherry blossom road that usually sees little traffic and serves mainly as a walking path. The Naval Base Headquarters is known for its ancient, lush cherry trees. This area is only open to the general public during the Naval Port Festival, where you can enjoy the sight of life-sized turtle ship models alongside the beautiful blossoms.
Seoul’s Changgyeonggung Palace is one of the top urban cherry blossom viewing spots in the city. (Image provided / Korea Tourism Organization)
The vibrant splendor of cherry blossoms has earned Jinhae the reputation as South Korea’s premier flower-viewing destination. (Image provided / Korea Tourism Organization)
● Namsan Park Ai La? Bo
In April each year, many areas in Seoul host cherry blossom festivals. Among them, the cherry blossom path in Namsan Park is the longest and highest in the city. You can plan a day to hike up Namsan, enjoying a mix of various flowers and cherry blossoms along the mountain trails. There are also activities such as cherry blossom light shows, cherry blossom strolls, and street performances to enjoy.