Every spring, Korea transforms into one of the most breathtaking destinations on the planet. From late March through mid-April, cherry blossoms (벚꽃, beotkkot) sweep across the peninsula in a wave that begins on the subtropical island of Jeju and rolls northward through Busan, Gyeongju, and finally Seoul. Millions of travelers — both Korean and international — plan their entire trips around this fleeting two-week window. And if you get the timing right, it’s genuinely one of the most spectacular natural events you’ll ever witness.
This is your complete 2026 cherry blossom guide: when to go, where to go, how to avoid the crowds, and what most travel blogs won’t tell you. Whether you’re planning your first visit to Korea or coming back specifically for blossom season, this guide will help you experience the magic without the headaches.
When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Korea? (2026 Forecast)
Cherry blossom timing in Korea follows a predictable south-to-north pattern, but the exact dates shift by a few days each year depending on winter temperatures. Based on historical data and the Korea Meteorological Administration’s early projections, here’s what to expect for 2026:
- Jeju Island: March 20–28 (earliest bloom, subtropical climate)
- Southern Coast (Busan, Jinhae, Gwangyang): March 28 – April 5
- Central Region (Gyeongju, Daegu): March 30 – April 8
- Seoul & Gyeonggi Province: April 5–14
- Northern Regions (Chuncheon, Gangneung): April 10–18
Peak bloom — when 80% or more of blossoms are open — typically lasts only 4–7 days at each location. After peak bloom, petals begin falling in what Koreans call 벚꽃비 (beotkkot-bi, cherry blossom rain) — arguably even more beautiful than the bloom itself. Plan to arrive 1–2 days before the predicted peak for the best experience.
Top 10 Cherry Blossom Spots in Korea (2026 Edition)
#1. Jinhae (진해) — The Undisputed Cherry Blossom Capital
Jinhae, now part of Changwon city in South Gyeongsang Province, is home to the largest cherry blossom festival in Korea and arguably the most famous blossom viewing destination in all of Asia. With over 360,000 cherry trees lining streets, canals, and hillsides, the sheer density of blossoms here is staggering.
- Must-see spots: Yeojwacheon Stream (여좌천 — the iconic tunnel of cherry trees over a stream), Gyeonghwa Station (경화역 — the famous railway track lined with blossoms)
- Festival: Jinhae Gunhangje Festival (진해군항제), typically held late March to early April. Over 2 million visitors attend annually.
- Best timing: March 30 – April 6, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Extreme on weekends. Visit on a weekday morning before 9 AM for the best photography conditions.
- Getting there: Express bus from Seoul Nambu Terminal (~4 hours) or KTX to Changwon, then local bus.
#2. Yeouido (여의도), Seoul — The Urban Blossom Boulevard
If you’re staying in Seoul and want world-class cherry blossoms without leaving the city, Yeouido’s Yunjung-ro (윤중로) — commonly called “Cherry Blossom Road” — is the answer. This 1.7-kilometer tree-lined boulevard along the National Assembly runs parallel to the Han River and becomes a tunnel of pale pink every April.
- Must-see spots: Yunjung-ro boulevard (main blossom tunnel), Yeouido Park (picnic under the trees), Han River path (riverside strolling with city skyline views)
- Festival: Yeouido Spring Flower Festival (여의도 봄꽃축제), usually the first or second week of April.
- Best timing: April 6–13, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Very high, especially on weekends. Go on a weekday or visit at sunrise for empty-ish shots.
- Getting there: Yeouinaru Station (Line 5, Exit 1) or National Assembly Station (Line 9, Exit 1).
#3. Gyeongju (경주) — Blossoms Meet Ancient History
Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty, offers something no other cherry blossom destination in Korea can match: thousand-year-old royal tombs, temples, and pagodas framed by cherry blossoms. The combination of historical architecture and natural beauty creates a uniquely Korean aesthetic that photographs like a painting.
- Must-see spots: Bomun Lake (보문호 — 8 km blossom path circling the lake), Bulguksa Temple entrance road, Gyeongju National Museum grounds, Daereungwon Tomb Complex
- Best timing: April 1–8, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Moderate on weekdays, heavy on weekends. Bomun Lake is less crowded than central Gyeongju.
- Getting there: KTX from Seoul to Singyeongju Station (~2 hours), then bus to downtown Gyeongju.
#4. Seokchon Lake (석촌호수), Seoul — Lotte Tower Meets Cherry Blossoms
Seokchon Lake in Songpa-gu is Seoul’s most Instagram-famous cherry blossom spot, and for good reason. Over 1,000 cherry trees ring the lake, and the backdrop of the 555-meter Lotte World Tower — Korea’s tallest building — creates a stunning modern-meets-nature frame that’s become iconic on social media worldwide.
- Must-see spots: The lakeside walking path (full loop ~2.5 km), the east lake bridge, and the Lotte Tower reflection shots at golden hour
- Best timing: April 6–13, 2026 (estimated — same as Yeouido)
- Crowd level: Extreme on weekends, particularly Saturday afternoons. Visit at sunrise or after 8 PM for night-lit blossoms.
- Getting there: Jamsil Station (Line 2/8, Exit 10) — it’s a 2-minute walk.
#5. Jeju Island (제주도) — The First Blossoms of Spring
Jeju blooms first every year, making it the destination for travelers who want to beat the mainland crowds. The island’s unique Jeju King Cherry (왕벚나무) — a species native to Jeju that produces larger, more lush blossoms than the standard Yoshino variety — creates a distinctly different viewing experience.
- Must-see spots: Jeonnong-ro (전농로 — the most famous blossom road in Jeju City), Noksan-ro (녹산로 — a canola flower + cherry blossom combination road), Hallim Park
- Best timing: March 22–30, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Moderate overall. Jeju is large enough to absorb crowds. Noksan-ro can get congested by car traffic.
- Getting there: Fly from Seoul Gimpo to Jeju (1 hour). Rent a car — Jeju’s blossom spots are spread out across the island.
#6. Hwagae Market Road (화개장터 십리벚꽃길) — The Romantic Mountain Road
Tucked away in the mountains between Gyeongsang and Jeolla provinces, the Hwagae Sipri Beotkkot-gil (화개 십리벚꽃길, “10-ri Cherry Blossom Road”) is one of Korea’s most legendary blossom paths. The name “Sipri” means about 4 kilometers — and the entire stretch is lined with mature cherry trees that form a dense canopy overhead. Local legend says that couples who walk this road together will stay together forever.
- Must-see spots: The full 4 km walking road along the stream, Hwagae Market (traditional countryside market at the entrance)
- Best timing: March 30 – April 5, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Low on weekdays — this is one of the least crowded premium blossom spots in Korea.
- Getting there: Bus from Jinju or Hadong. More remote, but the journey through mountain scenery is part of the experience.
#7. Namsan Tower (남산타워), Seoul — City Panorama with Blossoms
Namsan Mountain offers a completely different cherry blossom experience: elevated views of Seoul’s skyline framed by blossoms on the mountainside. The walking trails from various entry points (Myeongdong, Itaewon, Huam-dong) are lined with cherry trees, and the higher you climb, the more dramatic the views become. The Namsan Cable Car ride during peak bloom is particularly spectacular.
- Must-see spots: Namsan Circular Road (남산순환로 — car-free walking path), the cable car route, Namsan Tower observation deck
- Best timing: April 6–14, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Moderate. The mountain’s multiple access points distribute foot traffic well.
- Getting there: Walk from Myeongdong Station (Line 4) or take Namsan Cable Car from near Myeongdong.
#8. Gwangyang Maehwa Village (광양 매화마을) — Plum Blossoms First, Then Cherry
A hidden gem for early-season visitors: Gwangyang in South Jeolla Province is actually famous for 매화 (maehwa, plum blossoms) which bloom 2–3 weeks before cherry blossoms. If you visit in mid-March, you’ll catch the plum blossoms; if you visit in late March to early April, the cherry blossoms take over. The Seomjin River backdrop makes both seasons stunning.
- Must-see spots: Maehwa Village (매화마을) for plum blossoms, Seomjin River waterfront paths for cherry blossoms
- Best timing: Mid-March for plum blossoms; late March to early April for cherry blossoms
- Crowd level: Low to moderate. This is a true hidden gem compared to Jinhae.
- Getting there: Bus from Suncheon (~40 minutes). Combine with a visit to Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve.
#9. Haeundae (해운대), Busan — Beach Meets Blossoms
Busan offers the rare combination of cherry blossoms and ocean views. While Haeundae is famous for its summer beach scene, the surrounding neighborhoods — particularly Dalmaji Hill (달맞이고개) — transform into a cherry blossom wonderland each spring. The coastal road winding up Dalmaji Hill, with ocean views on one side and cherry blossoms on the other, is one of Korea’s most scenic drives.
- Must-see spots: Dalmaji Hill road (best by car or taxi), Oncheonjang-ro (온천장로 — long blossom boulevard in Dongnae-gu), UN Memorial Cemetery (cherry blossoms + peaceful gardens)
- Best timing: March 30 – April 7, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Moderate. Busan’s blossom spots are spread out, so no single location gets overwhelmed.
- Getting there: KTX from Seoul to Busan (~2.5 hours). Subway/bus to Haeundae area.
#10. Seoul Forest (서울숲) — The Laid-Back Local Favorite
Seoul Forest in Seongdong-gu is where Seoulites go to enjoy cherry blossoms without fighting the Yeouido and Seokchon Lake crowds. This massive urban park has extensive cherry tree groves, open lawns for picnicking, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels more neighborhood than tourist attraction. It’s also home to deer, butterflies, and beautiful wetland areas — making it a full-day destination rather than just a blossom-viewing stop.
- Must-see spots: The main cherry tree path near the park entrance, the deer enclosure area (blossoms + deer = unique photo op), the ecological wetland
- Best timing: April 6–14, 2026 (estimated)
- Crowd level: Moderate, and much more manageable than Yeouido. Best on weekday mornings.
- Getting there: Seoul Forest Station (Bundang Line, Exit 3) — direct access to the park.
Cherry Blossom Season: Essential Tips for 2026
Timing Strategy: How to Track Real-Time Bloom Status
Korea’s cherry blossom dates shift each year, so you need real-time tracking to nail your visit. Here’s how:
- Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA): Releases the official 벚꽃 개화 예보 (cherry blossom bloom forecast) in early March. This is the most reliable prediction.
- Naver/Kakao Map search: Search “벚꽃 개화” in Naver for daily regional updates once March begins.
- Instagram hashtags: Follow #벚꽃 #벚꽃명소 #벚꽃개화 for real-time photos from locals — you’ll see exactly where blooms are happening right now.
- Pro tip: If you can only visit during one specific week, target locations that bloom during your dates rather than trying to force a specific city. Korea’s south-to-north bloom progression means there’s always somewhere at peak bloom from late March through mid-April.
Avoiding Crowds: The 5 Rules
- Go on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Weekend crowds at popular spots like Jinhae and Yeouido are genuinely overwhelming — think shoulder-to-shoulder for kilometers.
- Arrive at sunrise. Most Korean visitors arrive between 10 AM and 2 PM. The 6–8 AM window is golden — soft light, empty paths, zero waiting.
- Visit during 벚꽃비 (petal fall), not peak bloom. The 2–3 days after peak bloom, when petals are falling like snow, are often more magical and significantly less crowded than peak bloom itself.
- Choose lesser-known spots. Hwagae Market Road, Gwangyang, and Seoul Forest are dramatically less crowded than Jinhae, Yeouido, and Seokchon Lake.
- Night viewing (야간 벚꽃). Several locations — including Seokchon Lake and Yeouido — have illuminated blossom paths at night. Evening visits (after 7 PM) are less crowded and offer a completely different, romantic atmosphere.
What to Pack for Cherry Blossom Season
- Layers: Spring in Korea is unpredictable. Mornings can be 5°C and afternoons 18°C. A light down jacket + a hoodie is the standard Korean spring combo.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll walk 15,000–25,000 steps on a serious blossom-viewing day. Trail runners or comfortable sneakers, not fashion boots.
- Portable battery pack: Your phone will die from photography. Bring a 10,000mAh minimum.
- Picnic supplies: Convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) sell full picnic kits — gimbap, fried chicken, drinks, and portable mats. Picnicking under cherry blossoms is the quintessential Korean spring experience.
- Allergy medication: Cherry blossom season overlaps with Korea’s yellow dust (황사, hwangsa) and fine dust (미세먼지, misemeonji) season. If you have allergies or respiratory sensitivities, bring medication and check air quality apps daily.
Getting Around Korea During Cherry Blossom Season
KTX (Korea’s High-Speed Rail)
The KTX is the backbone of inter-city travel in Korea. Seoul to Busan takes just 2.5 hours, Seoul to Gyeongju about 2 hours, and Seoul to Gwangju (near Gwangyang and Hwagae) about 1.5 hours. Book tickets early — KTX trains sell out during cherry blossom weekends, particularly the Seoul-Busan route. You can book at korail.com or through the Korail Talk app.
Express Buses
For destinations not well-served by KTX (like Jinhae, Hwagae, and Gwangyang), express buses from Seoul’s bus terminals are reliable and affordable. Nambu Terminal serves southern destinations. Book at bustago.or.kr. Buses run frequently and are comfortable — many have USB charging and free Wi-Fi.
T-Money Card
Get a T-Money card at any convenience store (2,500 KRW for the card, then top up with cash or at machines). It works on all subways, city buses, and even some taxis across every major Korean city. This single card will handle 90% of your urban transportation needs.
Beyond Blossoms: What Else to Do in Spring Korea
Cherry blossom viewing is rarely a solo activity in Korea — it’s part of a broader spring lifestyle. Here’s what locals pair with their blossom trips:
- Spring food festivals: Strawberry picking farms (딸기 농장 체험) are everywhere from March through May. Many operate pick-and-eat systems where you pay by the basket.
- Hanbok rental: Wearing a traditional Korean hanbok among cherry blossoms is a massive trend — both for Koreans and tourists. Rental shops near palaces (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung) offer full outfits for 15,000–25,000 KRW for 2–4 hours.
- Temple stays: Spring is peak season for temple stay (템플스테이) programs at Buddhist temples across Korea. Imagine waking up at 4 AM for meditation surrounded by mountain cherry blossoms. Book at templestay.com.
- Cafe hopping: Korean cafes go all-in on cherry blossom season with limited-edition cherry blossom lattes, desserts, and themed interiors. Starbucks Korea’s annual cherry blossom merchandise line is collectible-level popular.
Budget Guide: How Much Does a Cherry Blossom Trip Cost?
Korea is surprisingly affordable for a developed country. Here’s a realistic daily budget for a cherry blossom trip:
- Budget traveler (hostel + street food): 60,000–80,000 KRW/day (~$44–59 USD)
- Mid-range (hotel + restaurants): 150,000–200,000 KRW/day (~$111–148 USD)
- Comfortable (boutique hotel + taxis + nice restaurants): 300,000–400,000 KRW/day (~$222–296 USD)
Cherry blossom viewing itself is completely free — there are no admission fees for any of the spots listed in this guide except temple entrances (typically 3,000–5,000 KRW). Your biggest expenses will be accommodation and transportation between cities.
Final Thoughts: Why Korea’s Cherry Blossom Season Is Worth the Trip
Japan gets most of the international cherry blossom tourism attention, but Korea’s blossom season is — in many ways — a better experience for informed travelers. The infrastructure is excellent, prices are lower, crowds are more manageable (outside of Jinhae weekends), and you get the added bonus of experiencing Korea’s incredible food scene, K-beauty shopping, and cultural heritage sites during the most beautiful time of year.
If you’ve been thinking about visiting Korea, spring 2026 is your moment. The blossoms won’t wait, and neither should you. Start tracking the Korea Meteorological Administration forecast in early March, book your KTX tickets as soon as dates are confirmed, and prepare for one of the most photogenic experiences of your life.
Planning to combine your cherry blossom trip with some K-beauty shopping? Check out our guide to the best Korean sunscreens ranked on Olive Young — you’ll need serious SPF protection during all that outdoor blossom viewing.