Cherry blossoms are the most anticipated blooms in the spring. Many people plan trips way ahead to experience the stunning pink eruption around the world. For example, cherry blossoms have become synonymous with Japan as it has successfully embraced them as one of its most important traditions and connected identity. Cherry blossoms and the festivals that are attached to them are not at all exclusive to Japan, however. The US, UK, Canada, China, and Brazil, among others, celebrate the delightful sight of the Cherry blossoms.
If you happen to have an interest in travelling to Korea, which is highly recommended for the rich food, architecture, history and shopping experiences, make sure to arrange your trip during the spring to get the Korean Cherry blossoms experience too!
Considered the largest South Korean Cherry blossoms festival, Jinhae Gunhangje festival offers dazzling experience of the cherry blossoms blooming. Head to Gyeonghwa Station to find the tunnel of cherry trees that measures 800 meters. That’s almost a kilometer of pink floral carpeted ground! The trees lining this tunnel are in a protected embrace as trains pass underneath them.
This sight, which is so magical, has drawn photographers from all over the world. Aside from the Gyeonghwa station, the much longer tunnel of Yeojwacheon is also another must-see. The tunnel becomes full of vibrant pink flowers, which can stretch up to 1.5 kilometers. These cherry blossoms are contrasted by the beautiful terracotta colored footbridge, the vibrant yellow flowers underneath it and the bright green bamboo trees in the area.
Seoul is another exquisite place for cherry blossoms viewing. The Olympic Park is romantic with its wooden pagoda surrounded by cherry trees in full bloom. Before getting to the picturesque pagoda, you will need to walk on a street lined with beautiful trees on both sides. Lazily walk the street, stop, sit on the friendly pavement and look up. Let your face bathe in the falling pink blossoms.
The Bongeunsa Temple in Samseong-dong also draws in crowds of tourists for its equally beautiful cherry trees blooming in soft pink and complimented so perfectly by the bonsais and other blooming trees and shrubs like magnolia. If you have an ardor for water, you may want to walk along the Han River. The area is also studded with cherry blossoms and intensely yellow blooming trees. A walk around certainly provides a charming experience.
An alternative to the Han River for cherry blossoms viewing is at the Gyeongpo Lake. The lake is surrounded by cherry trees blooming intensely. That’s a total of 4.3 kilometers of gorgeous pathway. Walk to the dockside for a different perspective of the cherry blossoms and the majestic pagoda-like Gyeongpodae Pavilion. Boats are available for rent so you can cruise around the lake while romanticizing the whole cherry blossom experience. When you’re done, head to the Gyeongpodae Pavilion where activities like floral exhibits are usually held. One thing’s for sure, Gyeongpodae gives you a rich exposure to Korean culture and tradition that goes beyond its version of cherry blossoms experience.
Other notable cherry blossoms sites in South Korea include Seokchon Lake, Jeju Island, and Cheongpong Lake Road. The entire country is practically in full pink bloom in April. These destinations are mostly accessible by train, bus or car, except for Jeju Island where you might need to take a plane or ferry depending on your departure point. As the cherry blossoms are in full bloom for only 2 days to a week, try to visit during the first two weeks of April.
