Not Just Cherry Blossoms: Must-See Flower Fields in Korea This Spring

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
 
Come to Korea to enjoy the flowers in the gentle spring breeze. According to Kweather, the 2018 cherry blossom season began on March 25 in Jeju Island, the southernmost part of the country. The southern regions are expected to see blooms from March 28 to April 4, the central regions from April 3 to 10, and Seoul around April 8 when flowers will start blooming on the branches. The full bloom period is estimated to be about a week after the initial blossoming. The Korea Tourism Organization and related agencies will also hold a series of free lectures to share hidden cherry blossom spots.

When it comes to spring cherry blossom viewing, Korea hosts various cherry blossom festivals from south to north, such as the earliest-blooming 'Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival', the 'Hwajeon Market Cherry Blossom Festival' that couples vow to walk through together once in their lifetime, the 'Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in Yongdungpo' for a spring feast in Seoul, and the most unmissable 'Jinhae Gunhangje Festival' in Changwon that attracts over 2 million visitors every year.

The Gunhangje Festival runs from April 1 to 10. Originally held to commemorate Admiral Yi Sun-sin of the Joseon Dynasty, who led the navy to a great victory against Japan, it is now famous for its annual profusion of cherry blossoms. The most iconic spot is along Yoshizawa Stream, where pink and white cherry blossom trees stretch toward the center of the stream, forming a perfect arc. As dusk falls, the area around Yoshizawa Stream and the Romance Bridge are illuminated with colorful lights and lasers, creating a completely different atmosphere from daytime. Another cherry blossom highlight is the train station that only opens during the Gunhangje Festival, featuring an approximately 800-meter-long cherry blossom tunnel that is truly spectacular. If you have the chance to view cherry blossoms in Busan, be sure to check out the Gunhangje Festival.

In addition to cherry blossoms, azaleas are another eye-catching highlight of spring. Yeosu in South Jeolla Province, known for its azure South Sea and beautiful islands, turns a brilliant pink in April as azaleas bloom everywhere. Particularly on Lingyushan Mountain, which offers a panoramic view of the South Sea, the entire mountaintop is covered with pink azaleas, making it a prime tourist destination. The 'Lingyushan Azalea Festival' held from March 30 to April 1 this year offers visitors a variety of activities, including the Lingyushan Azalea Music Concert and special performances by the Azalea Art Troupe on the mountain.

In spring, you can also join Korea’s unique cherry blossom marathons. In addition to the 'Daegu International Marathon' held on April 1, which was selected as one of the 2018 Global Potential Tourism Destinations, the 'Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon' blends elements of the ancient Silla Dynasty capital, cherry blossoms, sports, leisure, and festive entertainment. It kicks off on April 7. With the spring breeze blowing and cherry blossom petals gently falling from the trees, both professional runners and cheering spectators can enjoy the romantic pink petal shower on the blossom-lined path. It is one of Korea’s most famous spring sporting events, attracting many tourists each year.

A Vast Explosion of Pink Cherry Blossoms: A Perfect Spot for a Scenic Farm Picnic