10 Best Cherry Blossom Festivals in Korea (2025) – The Ultimate Spring Travel Guide

Spring in Korea is a magical season when cherry blossoms cover streets, mountains, and riversides in soft pink and white. Whether you’re looking for romantic strolls, night-time light-up festivals, amusement park rides under cherry blossoms, or historic temples surrounded by flowers, Korea’s cherry blossom festivals have it all.

If you’re planning a trip to Korea in March or April 2025, this guide provides everything you needblooming forecasts, festival locations in both Korean & English, how to get there, special events, local food recommendations, accommodations, and hidden gems.


1. Jinhae Gunhangje Festival | 진해 군항제

Location:

  • Jungwon Rotary, Jinhae-gu, Changwon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
  • 경상남도 창원시 진해구 중원로타리 일대
    2025 Forecast: Late March – Early April

Jinhae Gunhangje is the largest cherry blossom festival in Korea, with over 2 million visitors annually. The entire city transforms into a pink wonderland, famous for its cherry blossom tunnels and military band performances.

Why You Should Visit

  • Yeojwacheon Stream (여좌천 벚꽃길) – A romantic cherry blossom stream best viewed at night.
  • Gyeonghwa Station (경화역 벚꽃길) – A stunning pink railway tunnel covered in cherry blossoms.
  • Anmin Hill (안민고개) – A scenic mountain road lined with cherry blossom trees.

Special Events & Activities

Korean Navy Band Parade – A military performance featuring marching bands & honor guards.
Fireworks ShowMassive fireworks over Jinhae Harbor.
Cherry Blossom Night Light-UpGlowing pink blossoms in the evening.

How to Get There

  • KTX from Seoul to Changwon Jungang Station (창원중앙역), then take a local bus to Jinhae.
  • Express bus from Seoul Nambu Terminal (서울 남부터미널) to Jinhae.

Where to Stay

  • Jinhae Grand Hotel (진해 그랜드 호텔) – Best for easy access to festival areas.
  • Changwon Hotel (창원 호텔)Luxury stay near Jinhae.

Must-Try Foods

  • Jinhae Bibimbap (진해 비빔밥) – A colorful, locally flavored mixed rice dish.
  • Fresh Seafood at Jinhae Central Market (진해 중앙시장 해산물)Grilled shellfish and spicy seafood stew.

2. Yeouido Spring Flower Festival | 여의도 봄꽃축제

Location:

  • Yeouiseo-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
  • 서울특별시 영등포구 여의서로
    2025 Forecast: Late March – Early April

Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is Seoul’s most famous cherry blossom festival, featuring 1,800+ cherry trees along the Han River.

Why You Should Visit

  • Hangang Park (한강공원) – The best cherry blossom picnic spot in Seoul.
  • 63 Building (63빌딩) – Enjoy a breathtaking city view of pink blossoms from the observatory.

Special Events & Activities

Live Music & K-pop Performances
Cherry Blossom Light-Up at Night
Photography Contests with Prizes

How to Get There

  • Subway Line 5 to Yeouinaru Station (여의나루역), Exit 1.

Where to Stay

  • Conrad Seoul (콘래드 서울) – A 5-star luxury hotel with Han River views.
  • Kensington Hotel Yeouido (켄싱턴 호텔 여의도)Affordable & stylish stay near the festival.

Must-Try Foods

  • Yeongdeungpo Market (영등포시장) Street Food – Try hotteok (sweet pancakes) & tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).
  • Hanwoo Korean BBQ (한우구이) – Seoul’s best premium grilled beef.

3. Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival | 경주 벚꽃축제

Location:

  • Bomun Lake, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do
  • 경상북도 경주시 보문로
    2025 Forecast: Late March – Early April

Gyeongju is a city of history and pink cherry blossoms, home to ancient temples, royal palaces, and scenic parks.

Why You Should Visit

  • Bulguksa Temple (불국사) & Seokguram Grotto (석굴암) – Cherry blossoms surrounding 1,000-year-old Buddhist temples.
  • Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond (동궁과 월지)A nighttime reflection of cherry blossoms on the water.

Special Events & Activities

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon – Run through historical streets lined with cherry blossoms.
Nighttime Lantern Walk at Bulguksa Temple

How to Get There

  • KTX from Seoul to Singyeongju Station (신경주역), then take a bus to Bomun Lake.

Where to Stay

  • Hilton Gyeongju (힐튼 경주)Luxury hotel with lake views.
  • Gyeongju Hanok Stay (경주 한옥 스테이)Traditional Korean-style guesthouse.

Must-Try Foods

  • Hwangnam Bread (황남빵) – A famous Gyeongju pastry filled with red bean paste.
  • Gyeongju Hanwoo (경주 한우)High-quality Korean beef BBQ.

4. Jeju King Cherry Blossom Festival | 제주 왕벚꽃축제 (Biggest Cherry Blossoms in Korea!)

Location:

  • Jeonnong-ro & Jangjeon-ri, Jeju City, Jeju Island
  • 제주특별자치도 제주시 전농로 & 장전리
    2025 Forecast: Mid to Late March

Jeju Island is home to the King Cherry Blossoms, which have the largest and fluffiest petals in Korea. These blooms appear earlier than those on the mainland, making Jeju the first place in Korea to welcome spring.

Why You Should Visit

  • Jeonnong-ro (전농로): A must-visit cherry blossom street in Jeju City.
  • Jangjeon-ri Cherry Blossom Road (장전리 벚꽃길): A hidden gem with scenic mountain views.
  • Hallasan Mountain (한라산): A great spring hike with wild cherry blossoms.

Special Events & Activities

Night Cherry Blossom Light-Up – Certain areas glow beautifully after dark.
Traditional Jeju Performances – Including folk music and cultural dance shows.

How to Get There

  • From Jeju International Airport, take a taxi or local bus to Jeonnong-ro.

Where to Stay

  • Ramada Plaza Jeju (라마다 프라자 제주호텔) – A luxury ocean-view hotel.
  • Jeju GuesthousesGreat for budget travelers and solo explorers.

Must-Try Foods

  • Jeju Black Pork BBQ (흑돼지구이)Famous Jeju-style grilled pork.
  • Mackerel Sashimi (고등어회) & Hairtail Fish Stew (갈치조림)Local seafood specialties.

5. Daegu E-World Starlight Cherry Blossom Festival | 대구 이월드 별빛벚꽃축제 (Amusement Park + Blossoms!)

Location:

  • E-World, 200 Duryu Park, Dalseo-gu, Daegu
  • 대구광역시 달서구 두류공원로 200, 이월드
    2025 Forecast: Late March – Early April

Ever dreamed of seeing cherry blossoms inside a theme park? At E-World in Daegu, you can enjoy roller coasters, fireworks, and a magical pink-lit festival at night!

Why You Should Visit

  • 83 Tower (83타워): Take the elevator up for the best city-wide cherry blossom views.
  • Cherry Blossoms + Amusement Park Rides: Ride the Ferris wheel while surrounded by pink petals!

Special Events & Activities

Night Cherry Blossom Parade – Watch dancers and performers parade through the park.
Fireworks Show – A spectacular night-time display.

How to Get There

  • Take Daegu Subway Line 2 to Duryu Station (두류역), Exit 15.

Where to Stay

  • Inter-Burgo Hotel Daegu (인터불고 호텔 대구) – A luxury stay with mountain views.
  • Budget hotels near Duryu Park.

Must-Try Foods

  • Daegu Napjak Mandu (납작만두) – Thin, crispy dumplings.
  • Ttaro Gukbap (따로국밥)A must-try beef rice soup dish.

6. Busan Oncheoncheon Stream Cherry Blossom Festival | 부산 온천천 벚꽃축제

Location:

  • Oncheoncheon Stream, Dongnae-gu, Busan
  • 부산광역시 동래구 온천천로
    2025 Forecast: April 1 – April 7

Why You Should Visit

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic cherry blossom experience, Oncheoncheon Stream (온천천) is one of Busan’s hidden gems. This festival offers a serene cherry blossom viewing experience, away from the large tourist crowds.

  • Oncheoncheon Stream Walk (온천천 산책로): A long, scenic riverside trail surrounded by cherry blossoms.
  • Beomeosa Temple (범어사): A Buddhist temple on the mountainside, beautifully surrounded by cherry blossoms.

Special Events & Activities

Cherry Blossom Picnic Zones – Plenty of space to relax under pink cherry trees.
Boat Rides Along the Stream – Rent a small boat for a different view of the blossoms.
Acoustic Music Performances – Local artists perform soft, spring-themed music.

How to Get There

  • Take Busan Subway Line 1 to Dongnae Station (동래역), Exit 3.

Where to Stay

  • Haeundae Grand Hotel (해운대 그랜드 호텔): A luxury stay near Haeundae Beach, just a short drive from the festival.
  • Aventree Hotel Busan (아벤트리 호텔 부산): A mid-range hotel near Busan’s famous markets and shopping areas.

Must-Try Foods & Recommended Restaurants

  • Busan Milmyeon (밀면) – A refreshing cold noodle dish unique to Busan.
    • 📍Gukje Milmyeon (국제밀면) – Famous for its traditional spicy and mild versions of milmyeon.
  • Dwaeji Gukbap (돼지국밥) – Pork and rice soup, a Busan specialty.
    • 📍Ssangdungi Dwaeji Gukbap (쌍둥이돼지국밥) – A famous Busan eatery for rich, flavorful pork soup.

7. Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival | 화개장터 벚꽃축제

Location:

  • Hwagae Market, Hadong County, Gyeongsangnam-do
  • 경상남도 하동군 화개면 화개장터
    2025 Forecast: April 3 – April 10

Why You Should Visit

Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival is famous for Hwagae 10-ri Cherry Blossom Road (화개십리 벚꽃길), a 4 km-long cherry blossom tunnel. It’s one of Korea’s most scenic drives and walks during spring.

  • Hwagae Market (화개장터): A historical market selling fresh produce, street food, and traditional goods.
  • Ssanggyesa Temple (쌍계사): A peaceful Buddhist temple surrounded by pink cherry blossoms.

Special Events & Activities

Traditional Korean Folk Performances – Authentic Korean music and dance performances.
Green Tea Tastings – Hwagae is famous for its green tea plantations.
Hanbok Rental & Photography – Rent a traditional Korean dress for stunning cherry blossom photos.

How to Get There

  • Take a KTX to Jinju Station (진주역), then take a local bus to Hwagae (화개).

Where to Stay

  • Hadong Green Tea Pension (하동 녹차 펜션): A traditional-style accommodation surrounded by green tea fields.

Must-Try Foods & Recommended Restaurants

  • Green Tea Rice Cakes (녹차 떡)
    • Hadong Green Tea House (하동녹차찻집) – Try freshly brewed green tea with traditional tea rice cakes.

8. Seomjingang Cherry Blossom Festival | 섬진강 벚꽃축제

Location:

  • Seomjin River, Gurye, Jeollanam-do
  • 전라남도 구례군 섬진강
    2025 Forecast: April 5 – April 12

Why You Should Visit

  • Seomjin River Cherry Blossom Road (섬진강 벚꽃길): A long, peaceful riverside path perfect for cycling and walking.
  • Nearby Tea Plantations: Gurye is one of Korea’s top green tea-producing regions.

Special Events & Activities

Cherry Blossom Cycling Tours – Rent a bike and ride along the river.
Traditional Korean Music & Dance Shows

Must-Try Foods & Recommended Restaurants

  • Grilled Eel (장어구이)
    • 📍Seomjin River Eel House (섬진강 장어구이집) – Famous for charcoal-grilled eel with soy-based sauce.

9. Incheon Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival | 인천대공원 벚꽃축제

Location:

  • Jangsu-dong, Namdong-gu, Incheon
  • 인천광역시 남동구 장수동
    2025 Forecast: March 30 – April 5

Why You Should Visit

Incheon Grand Park is the best place to see cherry blossoms near Incheon, featuring wide roads covered in pink petals, picnic areas, and scenic lakes.

  • Huge Cherry Blossom Avenues: The park has long pathways lined with cherry blossoms, creating a perfect backdrop for walks, jogging, and family outings.
  • Less Crowded Than Seoul’s Yeouido Festival: If you want a peaceful cherry blossom experience without huge crowds, Incheon Grand Park is a great alternative.
  • Perfect for Families & Kids: The park features a zoo, children’s playground, and an amusement ride area, making it ideal for families

Special Events & Activities

Live Music Performances & Art Exhibitions
Children’s Fair & Amusement Rides

Must-Try Foods & Recommended Restaurants

  • Incheon Jjajangmyeon (짜장면)
    • Gonghwachun (공화춘) – The birthplace of Korean-style black bean noodles.

10. Nami Island Cherry Blossom Festival | 남이섬 벚꽃축제

Location:

korea, temple, flower, nature, beautiful flowers, section, landscape, republic of korea, buddhism, travel, tourism, religion, monk, mono, tree, sightseeing, spring, bell, korea, korea, korea, korea, korea, nature, landscape, buddhism, monk, flower wallpaper, mono, mono, mono, flower background, spring
Photo by ajs1980518 on Pixabay
  • Nami Island, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do
  • 강원도 춘천시 남이섬
    2025 Forecast: April 6 – April 12

why you should visit

Nami Island is one of Korea’s most romantic spring destinations, known for its stunning tree-lined paths, riverside views, and peaceful atmosphere. The island is famous for appearing in the K-drama “Winter Sonata”, making it a must-visit for couples, photographers, and nature lovers.

  • Cherry Blossom Tunnels: In early April, Nami Island’s famous tree-lined paths transform into pink tunnels of cherry blossoms.
  • Riverside Blossoms: Enjoy scenic cherry blossoms along the Bukhangang River (북한강), with reflections in the water.
  • Biking Through Cherry Blossoms: Rent a bicycle and ride through the island’s dreamy cherry blossom-lined roads.
  • Spring Festivals & Performances: During the festival, Nami Island hosts live jazz concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural performances.

Special Events & Activities

Cherry Blossom Boat Tours – Take a ferry surrounded by cherry blossoms.
Spring Jazz Concerts
Bicycle Rentals

Where to Stay

  • Naminara Hotel (남이나라 호텔): A peaceful stay on the island itself.
  • Best for: Nature lovers, couples, and those wanting a quiet retreat on the island
  • Price Range: ₩150,000 – ₩250,000 per night
  • Location: Inside Nami Island
  • Highlights:
  • Exclusive island experience – Only guests staying here can enjoy the island after tourists leave.
  • Traditional Korean-style rooms & modern options available.
  • Beautiful riverside views with cherry blossoms right outside.

Must-Try Foods & Recommended Restaurants

  • Dakgalbi (닭갈비, Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken)
    • Chuncheon Myeongdong Dakgalbi (춘천 명동 닭갈비) – The most famous place for authentic Chuncheon-style spicy chicken.

\

south korea, daegu, cherry blossoms, road, avenue, landscape, nature, spring, south korea, south korea, south korea, south korea, south korea, daegu
Photo by silver_ms on Pixabay