Cherry blossom season is one of the best times to visit Seoul, but knowing where to go and roughly when makes all the difference.
This guide covers the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, with practical tips on bloom timing, crowds, and which spots tend to flower earlier or later each spring.
Cherry Blossoms in Seoul
Seoul has many cherry blossom spots, but not all of them offer the same experience.
Some locations are known for large festivals and riverside walks, while others are quieter and better for avoiding crowds.
The sections below cover the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, with notes on what makes each spot unique and when they tend to bloom.
Cherry Blossom Bloom Timing Across South Korea (Estimated)
Cherry blossom bloom dates in South Korea vary every year based on weather conditions, including winter temperatures and early spring rainfall.
The map shows approximate bloom timing by region based on previous years, with Seoul and surrounding areas typically blooming later than southern cities like Busan and Jinhae.
Cherry Blossom Festivals In Seoul
Cherry blossom festivals in Seoul offer a different experience from casual neighborhood walks under the trees.
These events typically include food vendors, performances, and designated viewing areas, but they also attract large crowds during peak bloom.
Below are the main cherry blossom festivals in Seoul, along with what to expect at each one, so you can decide which are worth prioritizing during your trip.
Important note:
Cherry blossom festivals in Seoul are tied to peak bloom dates, but you do not need to attend a festival to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival: Seoul’s Most Popular Spring Festival
The Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival is Seoul’s most famous cherry blossom event and also its most crowded.
Held along the Han River in Yeouido Park, the festival features long rows of cherry trees, food vendors, performances, and pop-up booths that attract thousands of people each day during peak bloom.
With over 1,600 cherry blossom trees lining the park, Yeouido is especially popular for photos, evening walks, and festival atmosphere.
The area stays busy from morning through night, so expect large crowds at almost any time of day.
Best time to visit:
Late afternoon into early evening is popular, especially if you want sunset photos followed by nighttime lighting. Visiting on a weekday or earlier in the bloom period can help reduce crowd density.
Crowds:
Very high. This is not a quiet cherry blossom spot and is best for travelers who enjoy festivals, food stalls, and energy rather than peaceful walks.
Expected Dates for peak viewing are April 6-15th, 2026
When I first moved to South Korea, Yeouido was one of the first cherry blossom festivals I attended.
I remember spending the afternoon browsing vendor tents and food stalls, listening to live music, and soaking in the atmosphere.
Even without seeing every booth, it was easy to understand why this festival draws such large crowds every spring.
How to get there:
National Assembly Station (Line 9), Exit 1 or 2
Yeouinaru Station (Line 5), Exit 1 or 2, with a 15 to 20 minute walk to the festival area.
Both stations provide walkable access to the festival area.
📍Hotel Recommendations Near Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival
Here are some great hotels near Yeouido Park, perfect for experiencing the cherry blossoms at their peak:
📍Conrad Seoul
A five-star hotel offering panoramic views of the Han River, located within the International Finance Center Seoul complex. It’s a short walk to Yeouido Park, making it ideal for festival attendees. You can see the cherry blossoms from your room.
📍GLAD Hotel Yeouido
A stylish hotel situated in the heart of Yeouido, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to public transportation. It’s conveniently close to Yeouido Park, perfect for enjoying the cherry blossoms.
📍Kensington Hotel Yeouido
A charming hotel located just a two-minute walk from Yeouido Park, providing easy access to the cherry blossom festivities.
Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival takes place in the Jamsil area and is known for its scenic lake loop and city-meets-nature views.
Around 1,100 cherry blossom trees line the walking path, with a mix of flowering cherry, weeping cherry, and other varieties that bloom around the lake each spring.
A major draw here is the contrast between the blossoms, the lake, and the surrounding skyline.
Lotte World Tower rises directly behind the lake, and Lotte World provides a fairy-tale style backdrop with its castle and rides, making this a popular cherry blossom photo spot in Seoul.
During the festival period, the lake area often features live performances, casual busking, and small pop-up stalls.
In recent years, this has included flea market style booths selling cherry blossom themed accessories and handmade crafts, which adds to the festival atmosphere without overwhelming the space.
Dates for 2026 TBA: April 6th – 21st 2025
Best time to visit:
Late morning or early afternoon works well here if you want clear views of the lake and skyline. Early evening is popular for photos but tends to be busier.
Crowds:
Moderate to high during peak bloom, especially on weekends. The walking loop helps distribute crowds more evenly than some riverfront festivals.
How to get there:
From Jamsil Station, take exit 1 and pass through the mall to the back entrance facing the lake.
📍Hotel Recommedations Near Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
If you’re visiting for the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, staying nearby will make it easy to enjoy the blooms without a long commute. Here are some great hotel options close to Seokchon Lake:
📍Signiel Seoul – A five-star hotel in Lotte World Tower offering breathtaking city views and top-tier amenities.
📍Lotte Hotel World – A comfortable and stylish stay directly connected to Lotte World, perfect for easy access to Seokchon Lake.
📍Hotel Lake – An affordable option just a short walk from the festival, providing cozy rooms and a convenient location.
Yangjaecheon Cherry Blossom Lantern Festival
The Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom Festival is one of Seoul’s newer cherry blossom events, first introduced in 2018.
The festival takes place along the stream between Yeongdong 1 Bridge and Yeongdong 2 Bridge, where rows of cherry trees form a soft canopy of blooms during the day.
Compared to larger riverfront festivals, Yangjaecheon feels more neighborhood-focused.
The event blends cherry blossom views with casual busking performances, food stalls, flea markets, and interactive activities, including a cherry blossom stamp tour, making it especially appealing to families and locals.
In the evening, the atmosphere shifts as lanterns light up the stream and trees, creating a relaxed setting for nighttime walks.
On select nights, typically on the opening night of the festival, fireworks add to the experience, reflecting off the water and drawing visitors who prefer an evening visit over daytime crowds
Check the official website for more information, entertainment, and the fireworks schedule.
Dates for 2026 TBA: March 28th – April 28th 2025
Crowds:
Generally moderate during peak bloom. Because Yangjaecheon sits a bit outside Seoul’s main tourist areas, it tends to feel less congested than central riverfront festivals.
Even when busy, the long stream layout helps spread people out, especially during daytime hours.
How to get there:
From Maebong Station, Exit 4, followed by a short walk of about 7 minutes.
Or from Dogok Station, Exit 3 or 4, also around a 7 minute walk.
For a longer scenic route, start at Yangjae Citizen’s Forest Station, Exit 1, and follow the Yangjaecheon Stream path toward Maebong or Dogok.
This walk takes 40 minutes to an hour depending on how far you continue.
📍Recommended Hotels For The Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom Festival
If you’re planning to visit the Yangjaecheon Stream Cherry Blossom Festival, here are three great hotel options in Gangnam within a short commute to the festival location:
📍 ANDAZ SEOUL GANGNAM, BY HYATT A sleek, five-star hotel with modern design, an indoor pool, and top-tier amenities.
📍 L7 Gangnam by Lotte A stylish, well-located hotel offering great facilities at a more affordable price.
📍 Ocloud Hotel Gangnam A comfortable and reasonably priced stay in the heart of Gangnam, perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want a great location.
Seoul Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival
The Seoul Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival is a quieter alternative to Seoul’s central cherry blossom festivals, making it a good option if you want more space to walk and photograph the blossoms.
The park’s wide paths and lakeside areas are lined with cherry trees that form soft tunnels of blooms during peak season.
Because of its location outside the city center, Seoul Grand Park tends to attract fewer casual passersby than riverfront festivals.
This creates a more relaxed pace, especially during daytime hours, while still offering plenty of scenic views for spring walks and photos.
One advantage of visiting during cherry blossom season is the ability to turn it into a full day outing.
The festival area sits next to Seoul Grand Park Zoo and the botanical garden, making it easy to combine blossom viewing with other attractions in Seoul Grand Park.
During the festival period, you can also expect light performances, food stalls, and small flea market style booths selling cherry blossom themed souvenirs.
The overall atmosphere is family-friendly and far less hectic than Seoul’s most famous festivals.
Check the official website for more information.
Dates for 2026 TBA: April 5th – 7th in 2025
Crowds:
Generally moderate, even during peak bloom. The large park layout and distance from central tourist areas help keep crowd levels manageable.
How to get there:
Take Subway Line 2 (Green Line) from Gangnam Station
Transfer at Sadang Station to Line 4 (Blue Line).
Get off at Seoul Grand Park Station and use Exit 2. The park is a short walk from the station.
📍Recommended Hotels For Seoul Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival
If you’re planning to visit the Seoul Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival, here are three great hotel options in Gangnam within a short commute to the festival location:
📍 ANDAZ SEOUL GANGNAM, BY HYATT A sleek, five-star hotel with modern design, an indoor pool, and top-tier amenities.
📍 L7 Gangnam by Lotte A stylish, well-located hotel offering great facilities at a more affordable price.
📍 Ocloud Hotel Gangnam A comfortable and reasonably priced stay in the heart of Gangnam, perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want a great location.
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Late-Season Cherry Blossom Options Near Seoul
Nami Island Friendship Blossoms Party
The Nami Island Friendship Blossoms Party takes place on Nami Island, a popular day trip destination located just outside Seoul in Gangwon-do.
During cherry blossom season, the island’s walking paths and riverside areas are lined with flowering trees, creating a soft spring atmosphere that pairs well with its well-known scenic views.
Because Nami Island is slightly farther north and sits in a cooler region, cherry blossoms here often bloom a bit later than in central Seoul.
This makes it a solid option if you are visiting Korea in mid to late April or want a backup plan after Seoul’s peak bloom period.
Nami Island is best visited as a day trip from Seoul, especially for travelers who prefer an easy, all-in-one outing that combines cherry blossoms with sightseeing rather than navigating transportation independently.
Eden Cherry Blossom Road Festival (Gapyeong)
If you are arriving in South Korea later in April, the Eden Cherry Blossom Road Festival is one of the best chances to catch cherry blossoms after Seoul’s peak.
Located in the cooler Gapyeong area, this festival typically blooms later than central Seoul due to lower temperatures and elevation.
The cherry blossoms line a scenic road rather than a compact park, creating long stretches of flowering trees that are ideal for walking and photography.
This festival works best as a day trip from Seoul and is most appealing to travelers who missed early April bloom dates or want a quieter, less urban setting to see cherry blossoms toward the end of the season.
Top Spots for Cherry Blossoms in Seoul
N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, sits at the top of Namsan Mountain and is one of the most scenic places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul.
The surrounding Namsan Park is home to Seoul’s longest cherry tree trail, where hundreds of cherry blossom trees line winding paths each spring.
This area offers a quieter cherry blossom experience compared to major festival locations, especially if you explore the walking trails instead of staying near the tower plaza.
The combination of cherry blossoms, mountain paths, and city views makes Namsan one of the most unique spots for cherry blossoms in Seoul.
If you prefer not to hike uphill, the Namsan Cable Car offers a scenic ride above the cherry trees and panoramic views of the Seoul skyline.
While the blossoms are beautiful during the day, the experience changes at night when the tower lights up, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding cherry blossoms.
Crowds:
Moderate to high near the tower itself, especially in the evening. Trails farther from the main viewing area tend to be quieter.
How to get there:
Walk from Myeongdong Station (Line 4, Exit 3) to the base of the cable car.
Or hike up from Hoehyeon Station (Line 4, Exit 4).
The tower is also accessible by bus, with the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle buses (Routes 02, 03, or 05) stopping near the entrance.
Seoul Forest
Not only is Seoul Forest is one of the city’s largest and most popular green spaces, it’s also a great place to see cherry blossoms in Seoul without the intensity of festival crowds.
The park is spread across several themed areas, which makes it easy to wander and experience spring at a relaxed pace.
One of the main cherry blossom spots in Seoul Forest is the Cherry Blossom Path inside the Culture and Arts Park.
Rows of cherry blossom trees line the walkway and bloom into a soft canopy of pink and white each spring, making it ideal for walking, photography, and picnics.
What sets Seoul Forest apart from other cherry blossom locations in Seoul is the range of things to do beyond blossom viewing.
You can visit the butterfly conservatory, see deer in the Eco Forest, or explore outdoor art installations, all while surrounded by seasonal blooms.
This variety makes Seoul Forest especially appealing for families, couples, and travelers who want more than a single walking path.
Hours:
The park itself is open 24 hours, though access to certain facilities and attractions may be limited. Check the official website for current restrictions and updates.
Crowds:
Generally moderate. The size of the park helps spread visitors out, even during peak cherry blossom season.
How to get there:
Take the Suin–Bundang Line to Seoul Forest Station and use Exit 4. From there, it is about a 4 minute walk to the park entrance.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks and a striking place to see cherry blossoms in Seoul paired with historic architecture.
Cherry trees are scattered across the palace grounds, with especially scenic views around Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and the surrounding gardens.
In spring, cherry blossoms soften the palace’s grand scale and create a vivid contrast against the traditional Joseon-era buildings.
This makes Gyeongbokgung one of the best spots in Seoul for cherry blossom photography that feels distinctly cultural rather than park-like.
A visit here also offers more than blossoms alone. You can watch the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the palace’s courtyards and halls, making it an easy place to combine cherry blossom viewing with Korean history and sightseeing.
Please refer to the official website for updated information on hours, fees, and tours.
Crowds:
Moderate to high, especially midday and on weekends. The grounds are large enough to find quieter corners away from the main gates.
How to get there:
Take Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and use Exit 5, which leads directly to Gwanghwamun Gate.
Alternatively, take Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station and use Exit 2, followed by an approximately 7 minute walk to the main entrance.
Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden
Changdeokgung Palace offers one of the most serene cherry blossom experiences in Seoul, especially when paired with its famous Secret Garden (Huwon).
Cherry trees are scattered throughout the palace grounds, while the Secret Garden provides a quieter, more immersive setting during spring.
In cherry blossom season, pale pink blooms soften the palace’s traditional architecture and reflect gently off ponds and stone paths inside the garden.
The balance of royal history, landscaped nature, and seasonal color makes this one of the most visually refined places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul.
Access to the Secret Garden is limited to guided visits, which helps preserve its peaceful atmosphere.
Walking the garden paths during spring allows you to experience cherry blossoms alongside historic pavilions, shaded walkways, and secluded water features that feel far removed from the surrounding city.
Visiting notes:
Palace halls are typically open from 9:00 to 18:00, while Secret Garden hours and tour availability vary by season.
Admission fees and guided tour schedules change regularly, so check the official Changdeokgung website before visiting.
Crowds:
Moderate overall. Palace grounds can be busy near entrances, but guided Secret Garden visits keep crowd levels controlled inside Huwon.
How to get there:
Take Line 3 to Anguk Station and use Exit 3, followed by about a 5 minute walk.
Or take Line 1, 3, or 5 to Jongno 3-ga Station and use Exit 6 or 7. The walk to the palace takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Changgyeonggung Palace
Changgyeonggung Palace is one of the strongest palace locations in Seoul for cherry blossoms due to the sheer number of cherry trees spread across its grounds.
Among Seoul’s royal palaces, it has the highest concentration of cherry blossoms, creating a noticeably fuller bloom during spring.
Many of the cherry trees were planted during the Japanese Colonial period, which explains why the blossoms here are more abundant than at other palace sites.
While the history behind their planting is complex, today the effect is a palace landscape that becomes especially striking once cherry blossom season arrives.
Compared to larger, more central palaces, Changgyeonggung often feels quieter, making it a good option if you want to enjoy cherry blossoms in Seoul without heavy crowds.
Crowds:
Generally light to moderate. This palace is often less busy than Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung, even during peak cherry blossom season.
How to get there:
From Anguk Station, Exit 3, followed by about a 19 minute walk.
From Hyehwa Station, Exit 3 or 4, followed by about a 15 minute walk.
Kyung Hee University
Kyung Hee University is one of the most beautiful and serene spots for cherry blossom viewing in Seoul.
During spring, cherry blossom trees line the campus paths and frame the university’s distinctive European-style buildings, creating one of the more elegant backdrops for cherry blossom photos in the city.
Kyung Hee University stands out during cherry blossom season, with blossoms framing its classical European-style architecture, creating stunning photo opportunities.
The area near the main gate and student plaza is particularly popular during peak bloom, offering open views of the architecture paired with flowering trees.
Crowds:
Generally light to moderate. The campus is busiest near the main paths, but it remains quieter than many well-known cherry blossom spots in Seoul.
How to get there:
From Hoegi Station, use Exit 1 and walk about 15 minutes to the campus.
If you prefer not to walk, take bus Dongdaemun 01 from near Hoegi Station, Exit 1, Kyung Hee University is the final stop.
Bongeunsa Temple
Bongeunsa Temple offers a quiet and reflective place to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, set against the contrast of modern Gangnam.
Cherry blossom trees are scattered throughout the temple grounds, softening the traditional buildings and stone paths during spring.
Despite its location in the heart of Gangnam, Bongeunsa Temple offers a surprisingly quiet and serene cherry blossom experience.
Crowds:
Generally light to moderate. The temple setting naturally keeps the experience quieter than nearby public parks.
How to get there:
Take Line 9 to Bongeunsa Temple Station and use Exit 1. The temple is a 1 to 2 minute walk from the station
Hapjeong’s Cherry Blossom Road
The cherry blossom road near Hapjeong Station is a great option for seeing cherry blossoms in Seoul without the intensity of large festival crowds.
In early April, Yoshino cherry trees line both sides of the street, creating a soft tunnel of pink blossoms that feels more relaxed than riverside paths.
This area is especially nice if you prefer wandering rather than following a set route.
After enjoying the blossoms, you can explore the trendy Mangwon neighborhood, known for its indie boutiques, cozy cafes, and the Mangwon Market, where you can grab delicious street food and snacks.
Crowds:
Generally light to moderate. This area sees fewer tour groups compared to major cherry blossom locations.
How to get there:
From Hapjeong Station, use Exit 5 and walk about 500 meters along Yanghwa-ro 6-gil.
Exit 6 also works, and cherry blossom trees are scattered throughout the surrounding streets.
Bonus Day Trip: Cherry Blossoms Around Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, located about an hour from Seoul, is a rewarding day trip during cherry blossom season.
Built in the late 18th century under King Jeongjo to honor his father and support a new planned city, the fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects Joseon-era history and innovation.
In spring, cherry blossoms frame sections of the stone walls and nearby parks, adding soft color to the historic landscape.
One of the highlights of visiting during cherry blossom season is walking along the fortress walls, where you get elevated views of Suwon City alongside blooming trees and traditional architecture.
Beyond the fortress walls, you can explore nearby sites such as Hwaseong Haenggung Palace or watch traditional archery demonstrations near Paldal Gate, which help turn this into a full, well-rounded day trip rather than just a scenic walk.
Getting there from Seoul:
Travel times and routes can change, so I always recommend checking a navigation app like Naver Maps for the most up-to-date information.
Subway: Take Line 1 or the Suin–Bundang Line to Suwon Station. Use Exit 4, 7, or 9.
Train (Korail):
- ITX is the easiest option at about 31 minutes and ₩4,800
- Mugunghwa trains are cheaper at about 36 minutes and ₩2,700 but run less frequently
- KTX is the fastest but more expensive at about 33 minutes and ₩8,400
Suwon KTX Station and Suwon subway station are essentially the same location. From there, you will need to take a local bus to the fortress area.
Bus to Hwaseong Fortress:
From Suwon Station Exit 4, cross the street to the bus stop and make sure the route stops at Jangan Park or near Hwaseomun Gate.
- Red buses: 1007, 2007, 7770, 3000 (additional fee may apply)
- Green buses: 301, 310, 7-1, 82-1, 66-4, or 66
Need KTX Train Tickets 👉 Book your tickets here to reserve your seat in advance with Trip.com.
FAQ
The official forecast has not been released yet. Based on historical patterns, cherry blossoms in South Korea typically reach peak bloom between late March and early April. Blooms usually appear first on Jeju Island and progress northward, with colder regions flowering later. Exact timing can vary each year depending on temperatures and weather conditions leading up to spring.
Spring in Seoul is generally mild and comfortable. From late March through May, daytime temperatures usually range from about 10°C (50°F) in early spring to around 22°C (72°F) by late May. Skies are often clear, making this a great time for walking, sightseeing, and outdoor attractions. Occasional spring showers do happen, so it’s a good idea to carry a light jacket or umbrella.
Light layers work best in spring. Temperatures can change throughout the day, so a lightweight jacket or cardigan is useful, especially in the morning and evening. Comfortable walking shoes are also important, as spring is an ideal time for exploring parks, neighborhoods, and outdoor sights around Seoul.
Fine dust, often called yellow dust or hwangsa, can affect Seoul in spring, especially in March and April. It occurs when dust from desert regions in China and Mongolia mixes with local air pollution, occasionally resulting in poor air quality. Checking the air quality index daily is recommended, and wearing a mask is advisable on high-dust days. Many travelers also find it helpful to shower in the evening to remove dust after being outdoors. Apps like MISEMISE are widely used in Korea for real-time air quality updates.
The best place to stay in Seoul depends on your travel style. Myeongdong is convenient for first-time visitors who want a central base with easy transit access. Hongdae is popular for nightlife, cafés, and a youthful atmosphere, while Jongno offers a more traditional setting close to palaces and cultural sights. For a detailed neighborhood breakdown and hotel recommendations, see my Where to Stay in Seoul guide!
Cherry blossoms appear all over Seoul in spring, whether you visit a major festival, a palace, or a quieter neighborhood.
If you’re still planning your trip, these guides can help you decide where to stay and how to shape your itinerary:
• Where to Stay in Seoul
• 25 Free Things to Do in Seoul
• Things to Do at Night in Seoul