8 Spring Destinations To Visit In Seoul For Cherry Blossoms

Warmer temperatures in South Korea spells the arrival of Spring! This year, Spring is forecasted to arrive with cherry blossoms blooming as early as 25 March in Jeju, reaching the central region including Seoul from 3 April onwards (subject to change). With many flocking to catch the picturesque sights of cherry blossoms, Spring is indeed a popular season to travel where in Korea, many activities are taken outdoor to welcome the warmer weather.

Expect various festivals, events and activities when you visit South Korea during late March to mid May, and be sure to plan your vacation to include some of these Spring destinations that we’re about to recommend! If a day or overnight trip out of Seoul is out of the question or too rush for your trip, here are 8 places where you can catch the cherry blossoms in Seoul itself (in no particular order):

1. Yeouido Spring Flower Festival

Undoubtedly, Yeouido’s Yeouiseo-ro Street is always one of the top picks for cherry blossom viewing in Seoul.  Every April, the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival returns where visitors can catch cultural street performances and enjoy a stroll through the 1.7km-long cherry blossom tunnel. The festival is planned to kick off from 7 April onwards (subject to change according to bloom forecast).

While you are there, enjoy a picnic along Hangang River or even hop on the Hangang River Cruise to soak in the best of Seoul’s cityscape.

Getting here: 5 mins walk from National Assembly Station (Subway Line 9), Exit 1 or 6. Areas of Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Behind the National Assembly Building).

2. Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival

Find yourself being surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees lined up around the entire Seokchon Lake when you visit this area! From 5 April to mid-April, the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival will be taking place around the lake where visitors can look forward to many activities, exhibitions and cultural performances.

Spend your remaining day at Lotte World Magic Island, an outdoor themed park just next to the Seokchon Lake!

Getting here: 200m walk from Jamsil Station (Subway Line 2 & 8), Exit 2, to Seokchon Lake

3. Children’s Grand Park

A popular picnic spot for families, friends and couples, Children’s Grand Park boasts a mini zoo, botanical garden, playgrounds and an amusement park where both the young ones and young-at-heart can enjoy together. Many events are held at the park throughout the year and spring is a popular time where people visit the park for leisure and its cherry blossom sights.

Getting here: Children’s Grand Park Station (Subway Line 7), Exit 1
Operating Hours: 5am to 10pm (Park) | 9:30am to 5:30pm (Zoo) | 10am to 6:30pm (Amusement Park)

4. Namsan Park

The Namsan Park’s Circular Road is a beautiful scenic route lined with forsythias, azaleas, and cherry blossoms. The walk begins from Namsan Library and takes about 40 minutes to Namsan Octagonal Pavilion at the top of the mountain, boosting a magnificent view of Seoul. (Nearby attraction: N Seoul Tower)

Getting here: Chungmuro Station (Subway Line 3, 4), Exit 2. Take the Namsan Circulation Bus No. 02 or 05 and alight at National Theater of Korea Bus Stop. Walk 100m ahead and spot the Namsan Octagonal Pavilion.

5. Seoul Forest

Seoul Forest is one of our personal favourite places to visit especially during Spring and Autumn. Last visited here in Autumn 2017 for the fall foliage and was amazed by the magnificent sight of yellow gingko trees, just what we wanted to see. Enjoy a picnic or stroll at Seoul Forest as you immerse in the magical cherry blossoms! This place is perfect and very popular for photoshoots as well!

Getting here: 15mins walk from Ttukseom Station (Line 2), Exit 8, or 5mins walk from Seoul Forest Station (Bundang Line), Exit 3 or 4

6. Samcheong Park

Located at the end of Samcheong-dong, you can find a sign that will lead you to Samcheong Park. After a day of exploring the cultural district of Samcheong-dong, catch the cherry blossom sights and sunset as you take a hike up to the park. A perfect way to end your afternoon on a relaxing note!

Getting here: (To Samcheong Park directly) Gwanghwamun Station (Subway Line 5), Exit 2. Take Maeul Bus No.11 and alight at Samcheong Park bus stop / (To Samcheongdong) Anguk Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 1. Walk for 100m before turning right into the alley next to Pungmun Girl’s High School and continue walking straight.

7. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Not a fan of visiting palaces? You may want to reconsider again because Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most notable places in Seoul to view the cherry blossoms and savour the scenery. The palace is also located within walking distance from Samcheong-dong. While you are there, maybe you can consider to rent a hanbok costume (like what many tourists are already doing) for pretty photo opportunities! There are several hanbok rental shops located in the area, so it’s easy to spot one.

Getting here: Gyeongbokgung Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 5

8. Kyunghee University

Walk in from the entrance of the school and you will be completely blown away by the beautiful architecture and breathtaking surroundings full of European vibes. That was exactly what we felt after making a trip here last Autumn. During Spring when the cherry blossom blooms, it will be an amazing sight to see and well worth your trip there. The campus is open to the public, except for restricted areas that would require the student card access.

Getting here: Hoegi Station (Subway Line 1 & Jungang Line), Exit 1. Walk straight all the way for about 15mins.

Are you set for your next Spring adventure already? Even if you don’t take trips out of Seoul, you can still catch the beautiful cherry blossom sightings in the city. Be sure to book your trip early to avoid the fare hikes nearer to date!

Tip: Enjoy unlimited 4G WiFi coverage across Korea on a pay per day basis and connect up to 3 devices on the same pocket WiFi from as low as S$3.70/day! That’s a STEAL. If you’re traveling to South Korea soon, this offer would be extremely useful! Quote HALLYU5 when you check out your cart to enjoy a one-time special S$5 discount off (no minimum spend, for new sign-ups on Klook), valid till 31 December 2018! Find out more here.