Let’s dip into the vibrant soul of Seoul and discover the best ways to make the most of your summer adventure.

May 2024: Lotus Lantern Festival

The Lotus Lantern Festival, Yeon Deung Hoe, is an annual traditional Buddhist celebration in South Korea. It takes place on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, typically falling in April or May. The festival is highly significant and draws both locals and international visitors.

Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.

Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.

In addition to the lantern parade, the Lotus Lantern Festival offers various cultural performances, art exhibitions, traditional music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations. Visitors can also engage in Buddhist ceremonies, and temple tours, and participate in activities like making lotus lanterns and meditation sessions.

Event Date: 10 -12 May 2024
Location: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

June 2024: Busan One Asia Festival

The Busan One Asia Festival (BOF) is an annual cultural event that aims to bring together young people from Busan and around the world to enjoy Korean cultural content, particularly K-pop performances. This year, Busan One Asia Festival is celebrating its 8 years representing Korea’s cultural event in Asia.

One of the highlights of BOF is the lineup of hottest K-Pop idols like ZEROBASEONE, BOYNEXTDOOR, and n.SSign dazzled the audience with their energetic choreography and powerful vocals, while legendary acts like Super Junior D&E and God brought nostalgia and excitement to the stage.

You can join the BOF Big CONCERT with a tour from Klook

Event Date: 8 Jun 2024
Location: Busan Asiad Main Stadium

June 2024: Pohang International Fireworks Festival

The Pohang International Fireworks Festival is an annual event held in Pohang, South Korea, featuring a spectacular display of fireworks. In addition to the fireworks, the festival offers a host of other activities and entertainment, such as busking, parades, street performances, street art, food stalls, and international cultural exchange programs.

You can join this festival with a tour from Trazy or Klook.

Event Date: June 1, 2024
Location: Yeongildae Beach in Pohang, South Korea

July 2024: Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival

The Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival has gained increased recognition and popularity over the years, becoming Korea’s representative summer flower festival. It has been selected as an ‘Excellent Festival’ multiple times, highlighting its growing importance in the cultural landscape of South Korea. The festival takes place every July during the peak summer season when lotus flowers are in bloom.

Over the years, the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival has expanded its lineup of activities. Now, you have the chance to engage in various activities including crafting paper lotus flowers, making lotus flower soap, enjoying a night parade starring Prince Seodong and Princess Seonhwa, traditional music and dance performances featuring the rich heritage of Baekje culture, participating in a photo contest, food tasting and amazed by LED lights and lanterns.

Festival Date: July 5 -7,2024
Location: Gungnamji Pond in Buyeo Seodong Park, Buyeo County, South Chungcheong Province, South Korea

July to August 2024: Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is an annual event held in Boryeong, South Korea, which uses mud from the Boryeong mud flats. This festival, first staged in 1998, attracts millions of visitors yearly. It is known for its mud-based activities, including mud baths, mud slides, mud prisons, mud skiing competitions, and body painting using colored mud.

The mud from the Boryeong mud flats is believed to be rich in minerals and is associated with various health benefits. Initially created as a marketing strategy for Boryeong Mud Cosmetics, the festival has grown into a major cultural event, featuring live music, dance competitions, and entertainment activities. 

Visitors of all ages can participate in the festival, which offers a lively and joyful atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement. The Boryeong Mud Festival is a unique celebration that combines fun, health benefits, and cultural experiences centered around the therapeutic properties of mud.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook

Festival Dates: 19 Jul – 04 Aug 2024
Location:  Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea

July to August 2024: Waterbomb Festival

The Waterbomb Festival is one of South Korea’s most anticipated summer music festival featuring a blend of K-pop, K-hip-hop, and EDM performances. Participate in water gun battles, water canons, and other water activities while enjoying live music. It’s a fun-filled event dancing to the beats in a refreshing setting.

Festival Dates: 5 Jul – 31 Aug 2024
Location: vary by dates

July 2024: Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival

The 17th Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival is a celebration of the region’s freshwater resources, including the Tamjingang River, Jangheung Dam Lake, and Deukryang Bay seawater. It aims to boost tourism and the local economy by showcasing the area’s cleanliness and greenery, attracting visitors to enjoy organic agricultural products.

Unlike typical festivals, it offers unique water-themed activities suitable for the hot summer season. Recognized as a designated cultural and tourism festival, it has become a signature event alongside other local attractions. It’s not just a festival but a place to immerse in clean nature and relaxation to beat the summer heat.

Event Date: TBA
Location: TBA

August 2024: Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival

Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival is the biggest live music event in South Korea, attracting both aspiring and prominent musicians from Korea and around the world. The 2024 edition of the festival is scheduled to take place from August 2-4, 2024 at the Songdo Moonlight Festival Park in Incheon. However, the full lineup for the 2024 edition of the festival has not been revealed yet. The official website will post more details about the 2024 lineup will be announced closer to the event dates.

Festival Date: 2 – 4 Aug 2024
Location: Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, Incheon

Here are some of the best summer music festivals you won’t want to miss

K-Pop Music Festivals In Korea:
Dream Concert – Seoul
Spectrum Dance & Music Festival – Seoul

Rock Music Festivals In Korea:
IT’S A FEST – Incheon

Indie Music Festivals In Korea:
GreenPlugged – Seoul
Grand Mint Festival – Seoul
Rainbow Island – Gapyeong

EDM Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul World DJ Festival – Seoul
Ultra Music Festival Korea – Seoul
5tardium – Seoul
EDC Korea – Seoul

Other Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul Jazz Festival – Seoul
DMZ Peace Train Music Festival – Seoul
NBA Buzzer Beat Festival – Seoul
Rapbeat Festival – Seoul
SKA Superswag Festival – Incheon
Big Day South – Busan

August to September 2024: Daegu Chimac Festival

The Daegu Chicken and Beer Festival, also known as the “Daegu Chimac Festival”, is an annual event held in Daegu, South Korea, celebrating the popular combination of chicken and beer (referred to as “chimac” in Korean). The festival features a variety of chicken dishes such as fried, grilled, and spicy chicken, showcasing the culinary creativity of local chefs and vendors.

You can also enjoy a wide selection of local and international beers to complement the chicken. This festival includes various activities and entertainment, such as surprising performances, in addition to the food and drink offerings.

Food Festivals in Korea during the Summer

Summer 2024: Bonghwa Eun-uh (Sweetfish) Festival

Held annually during the summer months which is typically the end of July, this festival celebrates the local specialty product of sweetfish, a cherished delicacy in Korean cuisine. The festival presents a variety of engaging programs that allow visitors to actively participate.
These include fishing, water play, a water fight, and agricultural experiences.

August to September 2024: Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival

Every year between August and September, Makguksu, a traditional Korean buckwheat noodle dish, takes center stage at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival. Made from freshly ground buckwheat flour and served in a chilled broth, this refreshing dish is the perfect antidote to the summer heat. Sample a variety of makguksu preparations, from classic versions to creative twists created by local chefs.

There’s a variety of fun-filled activities designed to entertain and delight festival-goers of all ages. From cooking competitions and food-eating contests to interactive games and cultural exhibits, there’s never a boring moment at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival.

A new attraction in Seoul this June 2024: Moon of Seoul

June 2024: The “Moon of Seoul” will rise to 150 meters above Yeouido

Set to fly in June, the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has announced an exciting new addition to the city skyline – the Moon of Seoul! This moon-shaped hot air balloon will soar 150 meters above Yeouido Park, offering a remarkable night experience.

While it may look like a regular hot air balloon, the Moon of Seoul is filled with helium gas and tethered to the ground by sturdy cables. The buoyancy of helium and an electric mechanism power its vertical trips.

The making of the Moon of Seoul began in January, with careful planning and construction, and started its installation at Yeouido Park’s Grassy Field on April 29. Thorough test flights will be conducted to guarantee safety before the official launch in late June, the actual launch date will depend on weather conditions to ensure the best viewing experience possible.

Each trip lasts about 15 minutes and can accommodate up to 30 passengers. Imagine wandering above Seoul’s busy streets, seeing the iconic landmarks and Hangang River. Visitors can enjoy the Moon of Seoul from Tuesday to Sunday, between 12 PM and 10 PM. Adult tickets start at KRW 25,000, with discounts available for certain groups. Maintenance work is scheduled for Mondays to keep the attraction in top condition.

The Moon of Seoul is set to become a landmark in the city’s skyline. It’s sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of locals and tourists. Remember to capture your experience and share it on Instagram for all to see!

Please note that the booking link for the Moon of Seoul will be available soon. Keep an eye out for updates on how to reserve your spot!

How to get there: Take the subway to Yeouido Hangang Park. Travelers can alight at Yeouinaru Station Line 5, exits 2 or 3.

Address: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330 (여의도동) | 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Other activities at Yeouido Hangang Park can be booked at Klook

Top 10 Events in Seoul featured in Fever

Bluespring Summer Night 2024 Music Festival (Pre-Sale)

Bringing all music lovers to the vibrant city of Seoul – Blue Spring Summer Night, the annual music festival will feature a stellar lineup of Korea’s top vocalists Jeong Eun Ji, Kim Feel, John Park, Lee Byeong Chan, and many more!

The excitement doesn’t stop with music. Indulge your taste buds at various food zones, explore side events, and immerse yourself in the cool summer atmosphere of the festival.

Event Date: July 6-7, 2024
Time: 03:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: TBA 

Join the waitlist and get a presale link on 5/7 with a Fever-exclusive discount price before the tickets are released.

Waitlist link here

Discover the Wonders of Miniature Life with Tatsuya Tanaka’s “MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND” Exhibit in Seoul

On-going from March 2 – June 10

The MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND exhibition showcases over 200 artworks, including 52 original miniatures, photographs, and videos, each crafted with meticulous detail and infused with Tanaka’s signature charm. Themes such as HOME, FORM, COLOR, SCALE, MOTION, LIFE, and WORLD serve as a gateway into Tanaka’s imaginative universe, where objects are transformed and narratives unfold in miniature form.

Event Date: On-going from March 2 – June 10 (open every day)
Time: Weekdays: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (last admission: 8:00 pm)
Weekends (Sat-Sun): 10: 00 am – 10:00 pm (last admission: 9:00 pm)
Location: MPX Gallery, Level 3, IFC Mall (10, International Finance Street, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul)

Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the magic of.

More information and Booking

Get Ready to Dance: The 2024 World DJ Festival is Here!

15 & 16 June 2024

The 2024 World DJ Festival brings together top DJs from around the globe for an unforgettable experience of music and energy. As Asia’s premier EDM festival and the first Korean festival to be ranked in DJ MAG’s Top 100, festivals promise to deliver a unique atmosphere filled with pulsating beats.
Renowned artists Eric Prydz, KSHMR, The Chainsmokers, and more will take the stage at SeoulLand, Gwacheon. From the high-energy sets on the World Stage to the dreamy vibes of the Dream Stage invite music lovers from ages 19 and above.

Secure your spot with 1-Day or 2-Day passes, giving you access to a lineup of global top DJ headliners and electrifying performances that will keep you dancing all night long. 

Event Date: 15 & 16 June 2024
Time: 02:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: Seoul Land, 181 Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Click here for more information and Booking

Spain Club, Seoul’s Ultimate Destination for Authentic Spanish Dining

04 May – 30 Dec 2024

Exclusive Set Menus Available Only on Fever!
Experience the flavors of Spain right here in Seoul at Spain Club, the largest Spanish restaurant in Korea. Delighting diners with an exquisite menu of traditional Spanish dishes for over a decade.

Taste the authentic sirloin steak, and flavorful seafood paella crafted with the finest ingredients sourced from directly from Spain!
Enjoy your sangria with friends in the vibrant atmosphere of Spanish hospitality.

Click here for more information and Booking

Neon Brush Painting Workshop

23 – 25 May 2024

Come solo or bring your friends, sure you’ll enjoy this! A unique and immersive experience happening at Neon Brush Painting Workshop that invites you to unleash your creativity in a vibrant retro-futuristic atmosphere. A combination of art, ambiance, and entertainment is waiting for you to create classic and fluorescent paint under the glow of neon lights memorable and guided by expert artists.

After the session, you can take home your wonderful creation as a reminder of your proud experience at the workshop.

Event Date: 23 – 25 May 2024
Location: The Room Taktinn (Samcheong-ro 4, 4th Floor, Jongro-gu, Seoul)

Click here for more information and Booking

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

03 – 31 May 2024

Transport yourself to the 19th century and explore some of Van Gogh’s most iconic masterpieces like never before. It’s a multi-sensorial experience that will leave you wanting more! Step into Van Gogh’s World, and immerse yourself in the life and art of the genius artist through cutting-edge 360-degree projection mapping. The exhibition offers a one-of-a-kind virtual reality (VR) experience titled “A Day in the Life of the Artist in Arles, France,” allowing you to dive deeper into the inspiration behind eight of Van Gogh’s works.

Join us in celebrating Van Gogh’s 171st anniversary with a special 20% discount—secure your tickets now and don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Click here for more information and Booking

Location: GIDC Gwangmyeong G floor (B2 floor)

S2O Korea Songkran Music Festival 2024

13 – 14 Jul 2024

Songkran Music Festival 2024 is a spectacular water EDM festival that lets you experience music, energy, and water effects. Hosted at SeoulLand, this festival features live performances from the world’s top DJs, and will surely beat the heat with 1 million liters of water that will create an aquatic party atmosphere.

Prepare to be blown away by performances from acclaimed artists including VINI VICI, NICKY ROMERO, TJR, BEN NICKY, NERVO, KAAZE, SUB ZERO PROJECT, MIKE WILLIAMS, RAY VOLPE, TRITONAL, just_____us, and SALVATORE GANACCI. More to come!

Dates: July 13 & 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Location: SeoulLand

Click here for more information and Booking

Have a Nice Trip 2024 Music Festival

27 – 28 Jul 2024

Look forward to an array of exciting activities and amenities to enjoy. Take a break from the summer heat with indoor performances, explore various tasty food zones, and engage in fun-filled activities that promise to keep the excitement going all day long.

Ready to be captivated by the soulful melodies of Alec Benjamin, Peach Pit, and the dynamic performances of Henry Moodie, Hong Isaac, Kenya Grace, KISS OF LIFE, and Will Hyde. Then, on Sunday, July 28th, get ready to groove to the indie vibes of Alvvays, the mesmerizing sounds of King Krule, and the enchanting performances of KWON JIN AH, Nerd Connection, Remi Wolf, Sampha, and Surl.

Dates: July 27 – 28, 2024
Time: 12:00 – 22:00 (ticket booths open at 11:30 a.m.)
Location: KINTEX 2nd Exhibition Center, Ilsan

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

Create Your Signature Scent at Lumiere Parfum Seongsu

4 May – 30 Dec 2024

Participate in a one-day class led by professional perfumery experts where you’ll have the opportunity to create and customize your signature scent. Explore a wide selection of fragrances and learn the art of blending to craft a personalized perfume that reflects your unique personality. The sensory space at Lumiere Parfum is designed to engage your senses and awaken your creativity.

As a special token, you can bring home a mini perfume gift to cherish your experience in this perfume-making class and enjoy your custom fragrance wherever you go.

Dates: 03 May – 30 Dec 2024
Location: Lumiere Parfum Seongsu (#301, Wonchangsilup Nadong, 49 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul)

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

Candlelight Spring: Tribute to Taylor Swift

14 Jun 2024

Experience the magic of live music at Candlelight concert where talented musicians play in a magical setting that captures your heart. The candlelight and beautiful floral displays create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere that awakens your overall sensory experience. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a string quartet that interprets Taylor Swift’s iconic songs such as “Love Story,” “Blank Space,” “Shake It Off” and more.

Location: Platform L Contemporary Art Center,  11 Eonju-ro 133-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

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Nestled in the remote Chilgapsan Mountain a couple of hours outside of Seoul, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival transforms this rural valley retreat into a glittering icy world that looks straight out of a fairy tale. This frozen festival of winter delights includes a giant wall of bubbling ice, snowy sculptures, igloos, ice caves, snow statues, ice carvings, and all round winter fun for the whole family.

In this article you can find out what there is to see and do at the Chilgapsan Festival, including the various ice-based activities and attractions, how to get there by tour or public transport, and information about whether this festival is worth visiting or not. If you’re thinking of visiting this Korean ice fountain festival, and want to know why I think it’s definitely worth it, then keep on reading.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Visit The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024?

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival (칠갑산 얼음분수축제) offers visitors the chance to see a truly unique sight – massive structures crafted entirely from long icicles that appear to sprout up from the ground and have earned this winter festival the nickname of ‘Ice Castle’. The icicles, sparkling to create the illusion of frozen ice fountains, are man-made but that makes them no less magical.

With its stunning mix of dramatic natural scenery and dream-like illuminations, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival promises a fairy tale experience found nowhere else in Korea. This festival runs from December 23rd, 2023 to February 28th, 2024, which makes it one of Korea’s longest winter festivals and gives you plenty of opportunities to see it if you visit Korea during winter.

By day, you can explore illuminated ice caves and sculptures that get more fantastical each year. But it’s at night when the full effect comes alive, with rainbow-hued lights reflecting off the icy landscape synchronized to festive music. Visitors wander through this winter wonderland with hot chocolate in hand, snapping selfies and admiring over 50,000 tons of magical ice art crafted just for the festival.

Who Will Enjoy This Korean Winter Festival?

I think the Chilgapsan festival will appeal to couples and families, as well as anyone who enjoys playing in the snow. There are many rides and activities aimed at children, so this is a great way to keep them entertained during winter and gives them a fun, snowy playground to play in. Couples will enjoy strolling around the snow-covered landscape, posing for pictures in the many photo zones.

Warning about Korea’s winter weather: Winter in Korea can be very cold, especially during January and February, with temperatures dropping below zero degrees Celsius even during the day. If you are travelling with children, make sure they’re wrapped up well so they don’t suffer from the cold. There are lots of markets in Seoul that sell winter clothes and you can get heat packs and hand warmers, too.

What To Do At The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival provides a whole day of fun for people of all ages with lots of activities available for everyone, especially children. The main draw during the day is the ice fountain, sculptures and ice caves, with winter illuminations bringing the festival site to life once the sun sets. There’s also Korean festival food to try, snow and ice-based sports, and children’s rides.

Here are some of the best things you can see and do at this festival:

Ice Fountain, Ice Wall And Ice Sculptures

The towering ice fountains, which give this festival its name, and giant ice wall really have to be seen to be believed. Created by shooting jets of water which then freeze in place, they look truly unique. They look impressive during the day, but look even more extraordinary once the sun goes down and the lights are turned on, illuminating them in an ever changing rainbow of colours.

As well as the ice fountains, there are carefully created sculptures (inspired by Korean cartoons, Disney, and Pokemon), cute animals, and lots more. There are also ice sculptures shaped like the famous Korean turtle boat, a frozen Gwanghwamun Gate, wild animals, and a life-sized train made from ice.

Ice Caves, Igloos And Illuminations

Head into the ice caves and igloos to escape the cold and see gleaming blocks of ice lit up with vivid lights bouncing from frozen surfaces. There are several icy buildings to wander around and, as with the ice fountains, these look best when it’s dark so you can appreciate the illuminations at their fullest. Speaking of illuminations, there are lots of displays with pretty lights to see at night.

Snow And Ice Sports

There are plenty of winter sports to keep you busy and this festival is a great place to see snow in Korea as there are many snow machines working just in case it doesn’t snow. Slide down the snow sledding slope on a rubber ring or the ice sledding slope on a small sleigh. If you prefer flat surfaces, try the traditional Korean wooden sleighs and push yourself along the ice with short sticks.

Besides sledding, you can also try your hand at other winter sports and activities such as ice fishing, bare hand fishing in frozen tanks of water, a zip line past the frozen fountains, and a cow-drawn sleigh ride through the snow. If you want to try ice fishing, the experience here isn’t as impressive as dedicated ice fishing festivals like the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, but it’s still fun.

Children’s Activities At The Chilgapsan Winter Festival

I saw lots of families at the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival and there were plenty of activities for kids to enjoy, including a tractor-pulled ‘can sled’. These ‘cans’ looked like big cut out barrels with chairs inside, but were quite safe and let the kids feel like they were in their own personal car. The activities aren’t exactly on par with Disneyland, but they’re a good way to play in the snow.

As well as the sled and skis, children can try horse riding while being led around a course by a handler. There are also cultural activities and arts and crafts in small tents, but you might need to know a bit of Korean to understand what’s going on there. Activities will probably vary each year and may only be open during the busier weekend day, but I’m not sure so they could be available.

Food At The Chilgapsan Festival

Fans of Korean food won’t be disappointed with the range of Korean winter snacks at the Chilgapsan winter festival. Inside the festival grounds you can try various winter street foods on skewers, including chicken, rice cakes, and fish cakes, as well as deep fried fish. There’s also a cafe to get coffee, but don’t expect a chain store cafe, this is a temporary hut with a coffee machine inside.

The best part about the food at this festival has to be the roasted chestnuts, sweetcorn, and sweet potatoes. You can roast your own chestnuts on a log fire and cook the sweetcorn over hot coals. The sweet potatoes are roasted inside big metal drum ovens and served piping hot and steaming. These provide not only hot and delicious snacks, but also a fun experience to try at the festival.

For proper meals, there are some restaurants serving traditional Korean dishes such as tteok-guk (rice cake soup), haemul pajeon (Korean seafood pancakes), guk-bap (soupy stew with rice inside), and my favourite, donkasu (pork cutlet). There are simple meals like Korean curry and soybean sauce rice, too.

Sights Near Cheongyang Alps Village

Chilgapsan is the name of the mountain that the Cheongyang Alps Village, home to the ice fountain festival, is located by, which is why this festival is sometimes called the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival. If you want to explore more of this area during winter, there’s a really nice suspension bridge, the Chilgapsan Suspension Bridge (천장호 출렁다리), and reservoir near the entrance to the festival.

The reservoir looks really pretty when it’s frozen over and covered in snow, as you can see in the picture above. You can walk around the reservoir by following the wooden pathways, which are decorated with cute Korean messages along the way. You might be wondering why the suspension bridge has two giant chili peppers at each end. That’s because this area is famous for growing chilies.

Ticket Prices And Essential Festival Information

The entry fee for the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is ₩8,000 per person (children under 36 months are free). This gives you access to the festival grounds and access to the sculptures, ice fountains, ice caves, igloos, and other sights and facilities at the festival.

The sledding pass, which includes access to the sledding hill for ice sledding, snow sledding, and bob sledding, costs about ₩20,000 per person. There are also additional costs for the zip line, ice fishing and children’s activities, such as horse riding and the can sled. The prices for these activities aren’t available on the festival’s official website yet, but I’ll update prices here when they are.

For more information about this festival (in Korean), you can visit the official Alps Village website.

Tours To Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024

Despite the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival becoming more popular each year, there aren’t many tours. If you don’t have a car, taking a tour to the festival is the best option and gives you the benefit of a guaranteed direct journey there and back, as well as a guide who can tell you more about the festival.

Here are two tours that I recommend for the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival:

Cheongyang (Chilgapsan) Ice Festival & Other Winter Sights from Seoul: This all day guided tour from various locations in Seoul will take you to some of the hottest winter destinations in Korea, including the Chilgapsan festival. There are various options to add on extra destinations, such as Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, Eobi Ice Valley, and a strawberry picking farm

Price: From ₩62,200 (about $47 USD)

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival at Cheongyang Alps Village from Seoul: This all day tour from Seoul will take you to the Cheongyang Alps Village to see the Chilgapsan winter festival. You can add on extras, such as ice sledding, snow sledding, and bobsleigh, as well as extra destinations, to give you a full winter experience in Korea. You get over 4 hours to enjoy at the festival.

Price: From ₩69,100 (about $53 USD)

I always recommend booking tours in advance when visiting Korea for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is usually easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

How To Get To The Chilgapsan Winter Festival

Cheongyang Alps Village is a resort located in North Chungcheong Province, which is south of Seoul and about an hour west of Daejeon. It’s about 3.5 hours away from Seoul by car and can be reached by car or guided tour. Here are details about how to get to this Korean ice fountain festival by each of those means. There are instructions in Korean on the festival website, too.

From Seoul To Chilgapsan Festival By Car: If you plan to rent a car in Korea, or you live in Korea and have your own car, then you can drive to the festival in just over three hours from Seoul. You can find the main festival location by searching for “칠갑산얼음분수축제” or “알프스마을영농조합법인” in Naver or Kakao map apps. Use the address shown below to get directions with a sat-nav.

Address in Korean: 충남 청양군 정산면 천장호길 223-35 없음

From Seoul To Chilgapsan Festival By Tour: There are various tours to the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival from Seoul, as detailed in the previous section. Taking a tour is a convenient way to see the festival and to save time vs. organising your own way there on public transportation.

Please note: You can get to the Chilgapsan festival by taking a train from Seoul to Gongju and then transferring to a local bus, but the options for buses are very limited and don’t run late. I strongly recommend either renting a car or taking a tour rather than trying to get there by public transport. If you do want to try, there are directions (in Korean) on the festival website.

Best time to visit the Chilgapsan Festival: The best time to visit this festival is in the afternoon so you can enjoy snowy sights during the day, but don’t have to wait so long for the sun to set and to see the night lights and illuminations. Avoid visiting during the weekends if you can as it will be very busy.

Is The Chilgapsan Festival Worth Visiting?

Should you visit the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival? In the words of my friend Tim, who kindly contributed a lot of the pictures for this article, this festival is, “Totally worth it!“. This festival has plenty to see and do and will keep people amused in the afternoon and evening. If you take a tour that also visits another winter destination, such as a strawberry farm, then it’s a great day trip from Seoul.

Families will find plenty to do with lots of the activities aimed at children, such as the sledding slope, horse rides, and the can sleigh. Even if you’re not travelling with children, the beautiful winter displays at the Chilgapsan festival offer couples and solo travellers the chance to take unique pictures with snowy backgrounds and icy buildings, sample traditional Korean snacks, and experience a Korean festival.

This festival is worth visiting, but please consider the weather during winter in Korea. It’s cold and dry, which can be tough for people not used to such conditions. Be sure to wrap up warm and bring skin cream to protect against the dryness. Gloves are a must and heat packs that go in your pockets can save your fingers. Be aware of the cold weather and you should be fine here.

A Special Thanks To Photos Of Korea

I want to give a big shout out and thanks to Tim from Photos of Korea for letting me use his incredible photos from this festival and for sharing his thoughts about the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival, which he visited in 2023. You can see loads of incredible pictures of Korea’s lesser-known locations and festivals from his Facebook page, Instagram page, and his uploads on Unsplash.

2024 Winter Festivals In Korea To See Snowy Sights

Besides this Korean ice fountain festival, there are many other winter festivals that you should check out for exciting activities, incredible views, and cultural immersion. These festivals introduce you to traditional Korean culture in beautiful surroundings and with lots of delicious Korean festival food. Here are some of the other major winter festivals you can see in Korea:

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations: Exploring sculpted gardens and electric forests when the sun has set is like entering into a magical world, a true winter fantasia with lots of photo opportunities. Every year the garden has a range of themed areas that focus on animals, plants, and even love for the sweethearts.

Seoul Lantern Festival: This dazzling festival is held in Gwanghwamun Square outside Gyeongbokgung Palace, which gives over it’s large pedestrianised areas to massive themed lantern installations. These installations feature different concepts each year like aquarium scenes, starry nights, nature landscapes, and Korean folktales.

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival: This is one of Korea’s best winter festivals and made it into CNN’s top 7 ‘Wonder’s of Winter’ for a good reason. The Hwacheon Sancneoneo Ice Festival attracts over a million people each year to try ice fishing (with a rod or bare handed). There are winter activities, ice sculptures, and a Korean Winter Village with cultural games and Korean festival food.

Learn more: Discover all the best festivals to visit in Korea this winter with this guide to Korea’s winter festivals, which includes ice fishing festivals, illumination festivals, New Year festivals, and lots more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is worth visiting because you get to experience a traditional Korean winter festival on a day trip from Seoul. There are also lots of other interesting ice-based games, cultural activities, and opportunities for sightseeing around this fish-focused town. This winter festival creates such a lively atmosphere it’s no wonder that it attracts over one million visitors every year.

In this article you can find out what there is to see and do at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, including the various ice-based activities and attractions, how to get there by tour or public transport, and information about other ice fishing festivals in Korea. If you’re thinking of visiting this fun winter festival, and want to know why it’s one of CNN’s “7 Wonders of Winter”, then keep on reading.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why I Love The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

This festival was the first winter festival that I visited when I moved to Korea and it’s one I’ve gone back to and will go back to again in the future as it’s pretty, fun, and has plenty to do. I bought a souvenir wooden fish from Hwacheon on my first visit and it still sits proudly on the top of my bookcase as a reminder of this festival. The fish I caught for lunch that day, however, has long since gone!

If I know people are coming to visit Korea in January and want to experience a unique winter festival that offers a fun day out from Seoul, the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is always the first I recommend to them. This festival provides a mixture of culture, sports, entertainment, involvement, and surprising sights that makes it so memorable. This is a great festival to visit as a group or family.

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival runs from January 6th until January 23rd, 2024, right during the coldest part of winter in Korea when the river freezes over and there is ice over 40cm thick. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe to walk on, or even slide and sled on, even with all those holes drilled in it for you to catch fish through.

What To Do At The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival provides a whole day of fun for people of all ages with lots of activities available for everyone. The main draw is the ice fishing, which is one of the first things you see, but as you eyes stretch out over the icy river, you’ll notice a whole town alive with things to explore.

Here are some of the best things you can see and do at this festival:

1: Ice Fishing & Cooking

Ice fishing is the main attraction at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and one that people typically start with when they arrive. All along the long stretch of frozen river running through the town are temporary ice fishing spots right above where the fish are swimming in the cold waters below.

You will be given a small fishing rod and bag to store your catch in and then shown to your own little hole in the ice. Now it’s your chance to prove your fishing skills by trying to hook the fish out from the frigid waters below. Once you’ve caught a few (limit of 3 per person), you can go to the kitchens and grill the fish or have it prepared as sashimi (raw fish). Both go well with a Korean beer.

Ice fishing on the river is probably not something most people have done and it’s fun to try at least once. There are lots of fun photo opportunities and the fact that you can cook your fish afterwards is a tasty bonus. Slipping along on the ice is also fun, as is watching others fail at walking on it so well.

2: Bare Hand Ice Fishing Competition

For those who want to test themselves in the frosty waters, there’s the chance to join in the bare hand ice fishing competition that’s held on the shore of the river. This is exactly what it sounds like – catching trout with your bare hands in a giant pool of ice cold water. It’s also a great spectator sport.

The contestants jump in the pool dressed in shorts and an overly large t-shirt (provided) and stuff trout down their tops until the 5 minute time limit is up. There’s a special prize for anyone who finds a trout with a golden ring attached, but otherwise you get to keep 3 of the fish you caught. You can eat your catch in the same way as the ice fishing and there’s also a hot foot bath provided to warm you up after.

The competition starts every hour (10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00) with up to 40 people jumping in the pool together – both locals and brave foreigners who have joined in. A friend of mine tried it one time and he really enjoyed it, but was happy to be out of the cold water by the end. I think he managed to catch 2 fish, which is pretty good. Definitely don’t miss watching this.

3: Ice Sledding And Snow Sports

There are all kinds of icy winter sports and activities to try at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival that don’t involve fish. You can try your hand at ice sledding in the traditional Korean way – on a small wooden box with two poles to push yourself along. Grab a box and give it a go.

Alternatively, you can jump in a giant inflatable ring and zoom down the snowy slopes, ending on the frozen river below. I spent quite a while doing this as it’s lots of fun. Fans of the Winter Olympics can try out curling, bobsleigh, and ice skating. If you want something more extreme, there’s also a zip line over the ice and ice suit walking (ice zorbing).

4: Ice Displays And Illuminations

The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival is home to ‘the world’s largest indoor ice sculpture plaza‘, according to the sign outside the entrance to one of the top attractions at this Korean festival. Inside this large building you’ll find a frosty wonderland of frozen ice sculptures of all different shapes and sizes.

One of the most impressive ice sculptures in this display is the large Korean-style traditional building, which resembles a small palace that you’d find in Seoul. There’s also ice slides, frozen fish sculptures, romantic photo zones, and lots of other interesting icy sights that no doubt change every year.

When the sun starts to set, which happens before 6pm in January, you’ll be dazzled by the beautiful winter illuminations and lanterns strung up throughout the town of Hwacheon. These cover the central street and also spread out across other key areas in the town. Unsurprisingly, a lot of the lanterns are shaped like fish to represent the famous sancheoneo mountain trout the town is famous for.

5: Winter Culture Village And Sights

Between the ice sports, fishing, illuminations, and strange people jumping into pools of freezing cold water are cultural activities to check out, including traditional Korean games like the ones seen on Squid Game, at the Winter Culture Village. Koreans are keen to introduce foreigners to their traditional culture and this ice fishing festival is an opportunity for you to learn more about Korean culture.

Some of the activities you can try at the Winter Culture Village include archery, slingshot shooting, fire fighting, and games like yut nori. You can eat Korean traditional foods, such as fried rice cakes and nurungji (scorched rice). There’s also performances with traditional instruments on the weekend.

Hwacheon is a town that’s crazy about fish and to show their love for their slippery friends, they’ve painted lots of colourful murals on buildings throughout the town. These make for interesting photo spots and holiday snaps. There’s also a giant rotating fish statue looking over the river that rotates from atop a tall tower. There are many unique sights like this to check out in Hwacheon.

Ticket Prices And Tour Options For This Festival

The fee for the main activities at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival (ice fishing and bare hand ice fishing) is normally ₩15,000 per activity for anyone 11+. However, to encourage foreign visitors to join in this winter festival, there is a discount for all non-Koreans. Foreign visitors to the festival only pay ₩10,000 (~$9 USD) per activity and children under 6 year enter free.

What is included in the entry price? The entry fee for this festival allows you to enter the frozen river and try ice fishing with the provided fishing equipment. You get to eat the fish after you’ve caught it, prepared on a grill or as sashimi (raw fish) for an additional fee of ₩3,000 per fish. There’s a limit of 3 fish per person and you can take them home with you if you like.

Walking around the town and joining in cultural activities is free, as are some of the activities such as curling and badminton. Other activities at the ice fishing festival, such as sledding, bobsleigh, rubber tube slides, zip line etc., come with additional charges as follows:

Tours To The 2024 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

There are a number of tours available to the Hwacheon Sancehoneo Ice Festival that depart from Seoul and are open only to foreign tourists. These tours include transportation to Seoul and back, a tour guide who speaks English, and entry fees to various activities, which means you can see the best of the festival for one price and without the hassle of organising your own transport.

Here are two tours that I recommend for the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival:

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival Day Tour from Seoul: This 11 hour round-trip tour from Myeongdong and Hongdae will show you the best ice fishing festival in Korea with a professional English-speaking driver and guide. The tour fee includes ice fishing with grilled fish, 5 rides on the ice sled, the Ice Sculpture Square, and a complimentary ₩10,000 coupon to spend on other activities.

Price: ₩53,000 (about $43 USD)

Hwacheon Ice Fishing and Garden Of Morning Calm Lighting Festival: This combined tour from Seoul will take you to two of the hottest winter festivals in Korea – the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival. The tour includes entry fee for the ice fishing activity with all equipment, an English-speaking guide, and entry to the Garden of Morning calm.

Price: ₩73,000 (about $55 USD)

I always recommend booking tours in advance when visiting Korea for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is usually easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

How To Get To The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

Hwacheon is a town located in Gangwon Province halfway between Seoul and the east coast. It’s about 2.5 hours away from Seoul by car and can be reached by car, shuttle bus, or guided tour. Here’s some details about how to get to the ice fishing festival by each of those means. There are instructions in Korean on the festival website, too.

From Seoul To Hwacheon By Car: If you plan to rent a car in Korea, or you live in Korea and have your own car, then you can drive to the festival in a couple of hours from Seoul. The main festival location is “화천산천어축제”, but you will probably need to visit a temporary car park to park your car. The address of the festival is shown below. Use Naver Map or Kakao Map for directions.

Address in Korean: 강원 화천군 화천읍 중리 187-15

From Seoul To Hwacheon By Shuttle Bus: There is a special shuttle bus that operates for this festival exclusively for foreign tourists. This shuttle bus only runs once per day at 8:30am from Hongdae / 9:00am from Myeongdong and doesn’t include entry fees to any of the activities. The price for this shuttle bus is ₩20,000 per person.

From Seoul To Hwacheon By Tour: There are various tours to the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival from Seoul, as detailed in the previous section. Taking a tour is a convenient way to see the festival and to save time vs. organising your own way there on public transportation.

Please note: You can get to Hwacheon by bus and train from Seoul but this might be more expensive than taking the shuttle bus and definitely takes longer. I would recommend either using the shuttle bus or one of the tour options rather than trying to get there by public transport. If you do want to try, there are directions (in Korean) on the festival website.

Are Korean Ice Fishing Festivals Worth Visiting?

Should you visit an ice fishing festival in Korea this winter? In my opinion, you absolutely should. These winter festivals are a great opportunity to see snowy and icy landscapes, try a range of fun activities, eat delicious Korean festival foods, and create lasting memories from your time in Korea.

Just look at the guy in the picture. He’s standing in ice-cold water with a slippery trout in his hand and he’s got a big smile on his face. Whether you’re taking part or observing from the sidelines, there are so many entertaining sights and activities to enjoy at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival.

The festival does involve a long trip from Seoul to attend, about 2.5 hours each way, but you get a full day of activities and unique photo opportunities. If you add a side trip to the Garden of Morning Calm Lighting Festival at the same time, you get your money’s worth in terms of travel time.

The only downside of this festival is its popularity. It can get busy on weekends, which might put some people off. As a tourist, you have the luxury to travel during the week and I would definitely recommend visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds and get more time and space at the festival.

Other Ice Fishing Festivals In Korea

I would say that the Hwacheon Ice Festival is my favourite fishing festival in Korea, but it’s not the only ice fishing festival that’s on during winter. There are few other big ice fishing festivals that run at the same time of year and offer the chance enjoy more ice and snow-based activities in Korea.

Pyeongchang Trout Ice Fishing Festival 2024: Pyeongchang, home to the 2018 Winter Olympics, hosts a trout ice fishing festival each year with many people attending to try their luck with a rod. There are other events to enjoy, including bare hand fish catching, sledding, snow rafting, and a sleigh train. For extreme sports lovers, you can rent an ATV and zoom through the frozen landscape.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook.

Inje Ice Fishing Festival 2024: Running for more than 20 years, this large ice fishing festival in Inje is a family-friendly winter festival that not only includes ice fishing, but a range of other activities, too. There’s the Ice Playground, Snow Playground, and Mountain Village, where you can build a snowman, learn to sled and ski, slide down slippery slides, see ice sculptures, and see cultural exhibitions.

Yangpyeong Ice Fish Festival 2024: Held in the Soomy Village resort, this winter ice fishing festival runs from December to February and hosts a range of activities for families and other visitors to enjoy. Besides ice fishing, you can experience kite-flying, top spinning, sledding, and making traditional Korean snacks (jin-bang).

2024 Winter Festivals In Korea To See Snowy Sights

Besides ice fishing festivals, there are many other winter festivals in Korea that you should check out for exciting activities, incredible views, and cultural immersion. Here are some of the other major winter festivals you can see in Korea:

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations: Exploring sculpted gardens and electric forests when the sun has set is like entering into a magical world, a true winter fantasia with lots of photo opportunities. Every year the garden has a range of themed areas that focus on animals, plants, and even love for the sweethearts.

Seoul Lantern Festival: This dazzling festival is held in Gwanghwamun Square outside Gyeongbokgung Palace, which gives over it’s large pedestrianised areas to massive themed lantern installations. These installations feature different concepts each year like aquarium scenes, starry nights, nature landscapes, and Korean folktales.

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival: The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is a lesser-known gem among Korea’s winter festivals, but is fast becoming a must-see destination as a day trip from Seoul due to the unique ice fountains. There’s also a lot of delicious Korean winter foods to try, such as roasted chestnuts that you can cook yourself.

Learn more: Discover all the best festivals to visit in Korea this winter with this guide to Korea’s winter festivals, which includes ice fishing festivals, illumination festivals, New Year festivals, and lots more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

Support In My Korea

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This guide will tell you where to see cherry blossoms in Korea and includes the official 2024 Korean cherry blossom forecast to help you plan your trips during Korea’s prettiest season. There are cherry blossom forecast dates for the whole of Korea, from Seoul to Jeju Island.

Discover incredible cherry blossom festivals, viewing spots, and unique events across Korea and how to get there. As well as knowing where to see cherry blossoms in Korea in 2024, you’ll find my own travel tips & insights and useful information to help you travel Korea.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why See Cherry Blossoms In Korea?

Why should you visit Korea to see cherry blossoms this spring? Well, simply put, there’re amazing and give you the chance to see pretty spring blossoms when the weather is warm and the seasons are changing. They’re also all over the country, from city streets to winding around mountains on long, pink paths, which means that you can’t miss them. You’ll find incredible cherry blossom sights in Korea.

Leaping out in pinky-white waves across Korea, heralding the start of spring, the blossoms are the perfect antidote to the cold, dark winter that grips Korea for several months beforehand, and marks the start of warmer weather and prettier sights all round. When you visit Korea during cherry blossom season, you will see for yourself why Koreans and tourists alike love celebrating cherry blossom season.

My Favourite Cherry Blossom Spots In Korea

My personal favourite places to see cherry blossoms in Korea are:

These places all have cherry blossom festivals where you can not only take in the pinky-white petals, you can also enjoy festival activities and other natural or cultural sights nearby. When can you see cherry blossoms in Korea? The next section will show you the Korean cherry blossom forecast for 2024 for the best dates for blossom watching.

South Korean Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024

Cherry blossoms in Korea come out from mid March until early April. The first blossoms of the cherry blossom season in Korea always start in the south on Jeju Island and slowly work their way up towards Seoul, entering full bloom by early April. Thanks to the way cherry blossoms slowly work their way up through the country means you can see several cherry blossoms sights around the country.

Update: The 2024 South Korea cherry blossom forecast is now available and the dates of the first cherry blossoms in South Korea are March 19th on Jeju Island, March 20th in Jinhae, March 27th in Seoul, and April 4th in Chuncheon Province, which is close to where Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm are located. The peak blossom dates are 4 to 7 days after the first blooms.

Source: Weatheri website and Naver News

The start date is when 20% of the blossoms are out and the peak blossom date is when 90% of the blossoms have appeared. Therefore, I recommend visiting each location 1 or 2 days before the peak blossom dates for the best chance of stunning cherry blossom views in Korea. You should see at least 70-80% of the blossoms on display.

Please note: the Korean cherry blossom dates can change due to unforeseen weather conditions. Heavy rains, frost, or strong winds can cause the cherry blossoms to drop from the trees earlier than expected.

Below you can find the Korean cherry blossom start and peak dates for various locations in 2024 and the yearly average peak blossom dates. Yet again, the Korean cherry blossom forecast shows earlier blossoming date than average in most areas of Korea. This is likely due to a warmer February than usual in Korea, even though January saw quite a lot of snow and cold temperatures.

Available Cherry Blossom Tours

This article introduces the best cherry blossom spots across Korea, starting with Seoul and working down across the country, including the best festivals. If you’re interested in booking a cherry blossom tour, here are some of the best tours available this spring 2024.

Top 5 Cherry Blossom Tours from Seoul:

Top 3 Cherry Blossom Tours from Busan:

Top 3Cherry Blossom Tours on Jeju Island:

If you’re visiting Korea in mid-March, which is a bit early for cherry blossoms, you can still see the beautiful plum blossoms, which are known in Korea as maehwa.

• Gwangyang Maehwa & Jeonju Hanok Village Tour from Seoul – witness the birth of spring with the first blossoms of the year – maehwa plum blossoms.

Not sure where to go and whether you need a cherry blossom tour in Korea or not? Keep reading to find out about everything to do with cherry blossoms in Korea this spring.

Cherry Blossom Festivals In Korea

The best way to see cherry blossoms in Korea is by attending a cherry blossom festival. These festivals go all out and have a lot of other attractions besides the colourful blossoms. You can find food trucks, cultural performances, games, and even live music at these festivals. Read on to find out the best cherry blossom festivals in Korea.

Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

More than 2 million people visit the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival each year, making it the biggest cherry blossom festival in Korea. People flock to Jinhae to see the blossoms create a magnificent painting of colours, with lines of trees painting pinky-white stripes across the city. Visitors to the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival can also see cultural performances, walk along romantic riverside walkways, try delicious street foods, and take pictures with the colourful street murals.

When: March 25 – April 5 2024

Address in Korean: 경상남도 창원시 창원시 진해구 여명로

How to get there: To get to the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival, take a bus from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal directly to Jinhae. The festival is held throughout the city. The trip takes four hours and costs around W27,000.

Tour options: Tours to Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival are available from Seoul and Busan.

Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is a free festival at the butterfly-like lake that sits below Lotte World Tower. The wings of the lake are lined with hundreds of cherry trees that explode with colour at the start of April. Visit on a sunny day to get views of the angelic blossoms reflected on the lake’s surface and falling from the heavens above. It gets very crowded during cherry blossom season, but fortunately there are many places to take pretty cherry blossom selfies.

When: April 1 – April 4 2024

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 송파구 잠실6동

How to get there: To get to the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, take the subway to Jamsil Subway Station (Lines 2 & 8) and go out exit 2 or 3. The lake is visible in front of you.

Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival 2024

Yeouido Island is a popular destination in Seoul where locals flock to enjoy being outdoors on the weekends, drinking a Cass and eating ramyeon while sitting along the Han River’s grassy banks. During April, thousands of people swarm the scenic streets of Yeouiseo-ro Road to experience the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival.In this colourful festival you’ll not only find cherry blossoms, but also azaleas, forsythia, royal azaleas, and other spring flowers all in full bloom. Stay for the night-time light show, where flowers are lit up as a backdrop to street performances and art exhibitions.

When: March 29 – April 2 2024

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의서로

How to get there: To get to the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, take the subway to either National Assembly Subway Station (Line 9) or Yeouinaru Subway Station (Line 5) and follow the signs to the festival.

Tour options: There is a cherry blossom tour from Klook that will take you to 3 of the hottest cherry blossom spots in Seoul, including this location. The locations change depending on which site has the best blossoms in bloom.

Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

Head to Gyeongpodae Lake in the beautiful coastal city of Gangneung to combine cherry blossoms with beaches. Gaze at the cherry blossoms floating on trees above you and blowing down to the lake’s waters when a sea breeze blows through the trees. With over 4km of trees to walk through, this is certainly a lovely way to spend a warm spring day. Check out the pavilion for romantic views that are best shared with a loved on. There are lots of fun games and activities to enjoy, as well as unique festival foods, such as flower pancakes.

When: March 29 – April 4 2024

Address in Korean: 강원도 강릉시 초당동 459-2

How to get there: Take a train or bus from Seoul to Gangneung City. From Gangneung Intercity/Express Bus Terminal, take Bus 202 and get off at Gyeongpodae Lake.

Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

At the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival you can find streets full of cherry blossom goods, arts and craft stalls, and festival food stalls, all overlooked by the cloudy cherry blossoms. This is the most popular cherry blossom festival on Jeju Island and a perfect place for blossom viewing.

Jeju is home to a special type of cherry blossom, the King cherry blossom. These trees are said to be the original Korean cherry trees and the best of all the cherry blossoms in Korea. The blossoms are larger than other types of cherry trees in Korea. Like a pink sponge, more a full flower than a simple blossom.

When: March 22 – March 24 2024

Address in Korean: 삼도일동 721-14번지 제주시 제주특별자치도 KR

How to get there: Take bus 122 from Jeju Airport to Jeju Bus Terminal. Walk north along the river for 10 minutes or take a taxi there in less than 10 minutes. You can also see the cherry blossoms at Jangjeon-ri in Aewol and outside Jeju National University.

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival is your chance to view cherry blossoms growing around ancient Korean architecture in the historic city of Gyeongju. You’ll find the most incredible views of traditional Korea. At this festival you’ll have the chance to enjoy various activities, such as face painting, traditional games, live music, a cherry blossom shower, and tours around the city. The Bomun Lake Tourist Area offers the chance to see cherry blossom reflections while riding rollercoasters, sitting by the lake, or enjoying coffee from a lakeside cafe.

When: March 27 – Mar 31 2024

Address in Korean: 경상북도 경주시 보문로 446 (Bomun Lake)

How to get there: Take an intercity bus from Busan Sasang Bus Terminal to the Gyeongju Bus Terminal. From there, follow the main road towards the historic central area or take a taxi to Bomun Lake Tourist Area.

Tour Options: book a private taxi tours of Gyeongju to see cherry blossoms and other sights. As Gyeongju’s main sights are quite spread out, this can be a time-saving and hassle-free option.

Hwagae Market Cherry Blossom Festival 2024

Located near Jirisan National Park in southern Korea is one of the most magical cherry blossom festivals in Korea – the Hwagae Market Cherry Blossom Festival. What makes this so spectacular is the landscape, set in the Korean countryside for a very different view of cherry blossoms surrounded by nature. The main draw to the area is the ‘marriage road‘, which is rumoured to guarantee a long and happy life together if couples walk down it holding hands. When the sun hits the towering cherry blossoms from above, they cast a romantic pink glow on the road below.

When: March 22 – March 24 2024

Address in Korean: 경상남도 하동군 화개면 쌍계로 15

How to get there: Take the intercity bus from Nambu Bus Terminal (Seoul) to Hwagae City. Get off at Hwagaejangteo Market and walk to the temple from Hwagae following the river.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Seoul

Seoul is the most popular tourist destination in Korea and this bustling capital city has so many great sights to offer. There are countless places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul – in parks, along rivers, and amongst historic buildings.

The following locations offer the chance to not only take pictures with the cherry blossoms, but also to see pretty natural, historic and traditional Korean sights. When visiting Seoul for cherry blossoms, you get to enjoy the sights with extra colour. Here are my recommendations for the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul.

Seoul’s Royal Palaces & Secret Garden

Seoul’s royal palaces are the perfect traditional Korean backdrop to the natural beauty of cherry blossoms. The central lake at the heart of Gyeongbokgung in particular has spectacular views with cherry trees running along the edge and is very popular during cherry blossom season. The Secret Garden, located inside Changdeokgung Palace, is a restricted royal garden area that showcases some of the finest natural sights in Korea and is less packed with photographers due to the limited number of people who can visit each day.

How to get there: The royal palaces (and nearest subway) are Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbokgung Station), Changdeokgung (Anguk Station), Changgyeonggung (Anguk Station), Deoksugung (City Hall Station), and Gyeonghuigung (Gwanghwamun Station).

Opening Times:
Gyeongbokgung – closed Tuesday
Other palaces – closed Monday

Cherry Blossom Viewing With Hanbok: If you plan to visit Seoul’s royal palaces, I recommend renting traditional Korean hanbok. Not only will you look beautiful, you can gain free entry to the palaces. Hanbok rental starts from as little as ₩10,000 and will give you the perfect clothes for a cherry blossom photo shoot in Seoul.

Seoul Grand Park

Located in southern Seoul, Seoul Grand Park is a family-friendly area surrounded by woody hills and nature, making it a great place for views of cherry blossoms. The park includes Seoul Land amusement park, Seoul Zoo, a healing forest, theme park, and more. Stroll along the wide lake, join the festival activities, watch cultural activities, and more. To enjoy the cherry blossoms fully, grab some snacks and coffee from the vendors near the subway station and find a peaceful place to sit and take in the views.

Address in Korean: 경기도 과천시 막계동 267-1

How to get there: Take the subway to Seoul Grand Park Station and go out exit 2. The main park is in front of you, as well as convenience stores, cafes, and street vendors.

Tour options: There is a cherry blossom tour from Klook that will take you to 3 of the hottest cherry blossom spots in Seoul, including this location. The locations change depending on which site has the best blossoms in bloom.

Seokchon Lake Area

As mentioned previously, the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul. Walk around the tree-lined pathways that surround the lake, taking in the views over the water and overhead as you go. Head to the Seoul Sky Observatory in Lotte World Tower and see the lake from above, or visit Lotte World Magic Island, which looks out over the lake. For more cherry blossom views, head east to the nearby Olympic Park for beautiful blossoms and walking paths.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 송파구 잠실6동

How to get there: To get to the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, take the subway to Jamsil Subway Station (Lines 2 & 8) and go out exit 2 or 3. The lake is visible in front of you.

N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

The N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower) in central Seoul has dozens of cherry blossom trees at the peak and on the road leading up to it. Walk up the path and see cherry blossoms above or ride the Nasman Cable Car and see them passing by below. You can see the whole city from here, as well as the towering mountains of Bukhansan National Park in the north. I recommend taking the cable car to the top just before sunrise, checking out the views and other attractions, and then walking down the hill at night when the lights come on.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 용산구 남산공원길 105

How to get there: There are several ways to get to the N Seoul Tower, including on foot, by cable car, bus, or car. The most scenic way is by cable car. Walking takes about 30 minutes from Myeongdong Station and involves an uphill ascent (paved).

Tip: You can save money on entrance fees and attractions at the tower by booking online, which also avoids long queues and gives you more time to see snowy sights in Seoul.

Yeouido Hangang (Han River) Park

There’s more to the Yeouido Han River area than just the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival. Featuring long, green river banks, you have lots of space to explore and enjoy cherry blossoms away from the crowds. Walk along the river, or sit and have a picnic. The best views are from Yeouido Hangang Park, which you can find outside Yeouinaru Station. You can rent bikes from here, as well as tents, lawn mats, and buy a range of essential cherry blossom viewing supplies.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330

How to get there: Take the subway to Yeouinaru Station (Line 5) and use exit 2 or 3. The park spreads along the river.

Han River Cruise From Yeouido: After a busy day strolling under cherry blossom trees, relax and see the colourful bridges and sights of Seoul from the comfort of a cruise along the Han River.

Seoul Forest Park

Seoul Forest is Korea’s answer to Central Park in New York and makes you feel like you’re not in a city any more. Packed full of parks for children of all sizes, petting zoos, deer, and plenty of places to be in nature, this is the perfect place for cherry blossom viewing in Seoul. Entrance is free and is likely to be less busy than some of the other top cherry blossom spots in Seoul. Head to the far side of the park for raised walkways that give you views of the park, walking through the trees, with sights of the Han River in the background.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 성동구 뚝섬로 273

How to get there: Take the subway to Seoul Forest Station (Bundang Line) and use exit 3. You’ll probably have to transfer at Wangsimni Station if you’re coming from central Seoul.

Kyung hee University Campus

The Kyung Hee University campus provides a peaceful environment for students and visitors and is packed with ponds, parks, and relaxing pathways, as well as millions of cherry blossoms. The impressive neo-classical architecture provides an interesting backdrop to the blossoms, as do the students’ creative works that are on display.Take a walk through the grounds, along the ponds, and feel at ease in this pleasant surrounding. Once you’ve finished, you’ll find lots of nice cafes and restaurants to eat at outside. The top of the College of Fine Arts building offers 360 degree views of the area.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 동대문구 경희대로 26

How to get there: Take the subway to Hoegi Station (Line 1) and use exit 1. Follow the signs towards Kyung Hee University and look for the small hill in the background. The campus is located below that.

Seoul National Cemetery

Spring is a symbol of birth and regrowth and what better place to witness this than at a cemetery? Set in beautiful grounds, over slowly sloping hills, and packed with cherry trees, the Seoul National Cemetery is a remarkable place to visit any time of year. The cherry blossoms, perhaps in keeping with the setting, are weeping trees, with thick branches full of cherry blossoms, falling down towards the ground. After you’ve finished exploring the Seoul National Cemetery, find out more about Korea’s history at the nearby National Museum of Korea and War Memorial of Korea.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 동작구 현충로 210

How to get there: Take the subway to Dongjak Station (Lines 4 & 9) and use exit 6 or 7.

Ganghwa Sanseong Fortress & Goryeogung Palace

Travel to the beautiful Ganghwa Island to discover cherry blossoms blooming amongst the historic fortress walls and buildings of the ancient Ganghwa Sanseong Fortress and Goryeogung Palace. Cherry blossoms straddle the pathways around this area, creating an umbrella of blossoms for you to enjoy. This was an important location during the Goryeo Dynasty, which ran from the 10th to 14th Centuries. Learn about the how the soldiers in this area defended Korea from Mongolian invaders for decades while you appreciate the views.

Address in Korean: 인천광역시 강화군 불은면 중앙로 602-14

How to get there: Take the 3000 bus from Hongdae to Ganghwa Terminal and then take a taxi to the fortress. It’s only a short ride and shouldn’t cost more than a few thousand won.

Tour options: There is a tour to Ganghwa Island to see cherry blossoms and enjoy other activities available from Klook.

Nami Island & Garden Of Morning Calm

Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm are close to Seoul and are both full of nature and great for cherry blossom viewing in spring. They are both in Gapyeong County and can be accessed on a single day trip, either with a tour or by local transport. Nami Island features tree-lined streets, woodland animals, cafes, and cultural attractions. The Garden of Morning Calm is the best sculpted garden in all of Korea and offers views of Korean pagodas surrounded by cherry trees. Both can be seen in a day.

Address in Korean: 강원도 춘천시 남산면 남이섬길 1 (Nami Island), 경기도 가평군 상면 수목원로 432 (Garden of Morning Calm)

How to get there: Take the ITX train from Yongsan Station (Seoul) to Gapyeong Station, then take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus to Nami Island. For other transport options, check out the guide in the article about how to get to Nami Island From Seoul.

Tour options: There are plenty of tour options to take you to these locations and other sights in Gapyeong with a day tour departing from Seoul. Check out Klook, Trazy, and Get Your Guide for their various packages.

Less Visited Cherry Blossom Spots In Seoul

Looking for some less crowded areas in Seoul to see cherry blossoms away from the main festivals and throngs of people? Then check out these more peaceful areas of Seoul which still have many cherry blossom tree-lined streets to enjoy but aren’t yet as crowded.

Seongnaecheonduk-gil: Part of the Songpa Trail in the Jamsil area of Seoul, this waterside walkway starts north of Jamsillaru Station and takes you down a narrow lane starting at the Asan Medical Center and splits on the other side of Olympic Park. This area is also a great place for autumn foliage spots and Olympic Park is a lovely place to visit for a summer picnic or stroll on a sunny day.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 송파구 풍납2동 416-1 성내천길 다리

Walkerhill Street: Starting from the top of Achasan (a small hill) and leading down to the shores of the Han River, this 800 meter walkway stretches from the Achasan Mountain Ecological Park to the Walkerhill Hotel & Resort and passes under beautiful blossoms, considered one of the best sites in Seoul to see cherry blossoms, but not as busy as it’s a bit further out from the centre than other spots.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 광진구 광장동 370

Yeonhee Forest Shelter: Explore one of Seoul’s lesser-known mountain parks and see cherry blossoms at the Yeonhee Forest Shelter along the Ansan Jarak-gil walking trail in Ansan Mountain. This trail goes along leafy lanes and up the shallow slopes of Ansan Mountain (it’s not a mountain), offering views of blossoms, metasequoia trees, tulips, magnolias, and Korean forsythias near and far.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 서대문구 연희동 산2-128

Hwarangdae Railyway Park: Located in a northern part of Seoul near the old Hwarangdae Station in Nowon-gu, the Hwarangdae Railway Park is now an urban park that combines historic steam trains and trams from as far back as the 1890s with spectacular spring cherry blossom displays. There’s a peaceful cafe to relax in, old trains to sit in, and the colourful Nowon Light Garden to see at night.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 노원구 공릉2동 29-4

Gyeonggui Forest Line Park & Donggyo-ro 41 Gil: Check out the parallel streets of the Forest Line Park and Donggyo-ro 41 in Hongdae’s Yeonnam-dong area (near Hongik Uni Station) to see tree-lined pathways covering an abandoned railway track and blossom filled walking streets packed with boutique shops, bars, and lots of dessert cafes. Trendy blossom views with tasty treats together.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 마포구 동교동 147-89

Where To See Cherry Blossoms On Jeju Island

Spring comes early to Jeju Island and the King Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the first and most colourful of the spring cherry blossom events. The big blossoms offer lots of photo opportunities, but are not the only thing to see on Jeju Island in spring.

Jeju Island, known as one of the New 7 Wonders Of Nature, has a reputation for incredible natural beauty, which can certainly be seen if you visit Noksan-ro. This area features long, winding roads that are lined with vibrant displays of yellow and pink together from the cherry blossoms and canola flowers.

This area is very popular with cyclists and bikers in spring. Drive or bike around to the south coast and cruise along endless lanes of yellow and pink. Hikers can check out cherry blossoms and other spring flowers from the slopes of Hallasan Mountain. The volcanic mother to Jeju Island has some wonderful trails to explore and you’ll see cherry blossoms along the way.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Gyeongju

In Gyeongju City, witness the cherry blossoms blooming among old hanok buildings and above ancient tombs, the way they would have hundreds of years ago. This is definitely one of the best cities to see cherry blossoms in Korea and a really simple day trip from Busan.

You’ll find the best views in the Gyeongju Historic Area. Highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site include Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory (built in 675), Gyochon Traditional Village, and Woljeonggyo Bridge, a stunning bridge that looks like a palace wall.

Besides the colourful sights at the Gyeongju Historic Area, you can also find cherry blossoms at the Bomun Lake Tourist Complex to the south. One of my favourite sights here is the massive Hwangnyongwon (a 9-story golden tower), as well as the lake itself.

If you’ve an extra day in Gyeongju, then definitely visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto located in the mountains outside the city. Bulguksa is one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in Korea and hosts six National treasures of South Korea.

How to get there: Take an intercity bus from Busan Sasang Bus Terminal to Gyeongju Bus Terminal. Follow the main road towards the historic central area or take a taxi to Bomun Lake Tourist Area.

Taxi Tours Of Gyeongju: Gyeongju’s attractions are in several areas, including the Gyeongju Historic Area, Bomun Lake, and Bulguksa Temple. It can take a long time to get between these areas so an easier way to see the sights is with a Private Taxi Tour of Gyeongju.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Busan

All major cities in Korea have parks, rivers, or even mountains that provide great cherry blossom views, and Busan is no exception. There are plenty of places to see cherry blossoms in Busan, both in the city streets and in the nearby mountains around Busan.

These are 3 of the best places to see Busan’s cherry blossoms:

Oncheon Stream Park

With other 1,300 cherry trees lining the banks of the Oncheon Stream, this pleasant location is perfect in spring. A place for local residents to walk, run, and ride, this busy park is a prime location for cherry blossom viewing in Busan. Not only can you see cherry blossoms along the river, you’ll also find rows of bright yellow canola plants. There are small cafes and restaurants along the river, great for watching the night lights illuminate the delicate blossoms.

Address in Korean: 부산광역시 연제구 연산동

How to get there: There are multiple subway stations that lead out to the Oncheon Stream. The closest to Oncheon Stream Park is Dongnae Station. Use exit 2 and walk south towards the stream. The park is to the east (turn left at the river).

Samnak Ecological Park

The Samnak Ecological Park walkway, named one of the 100 most beautiful places in Korea, hosts a large number of cherry blossom trees that come to life in early April each year. With more than 1,200 trees blooming at the same time, you can see tunnels of pinky-white petals like in the picture above. You’ll also find dozens of other blooming plants, wetland birds, and tall flame grass along the Nakdonggang River banks. Rent a bike and explore this area at your own leisure or bring some lunch to have a picnic in the park in the warm spring weather.

Address in Korean: 부산광역시 사상구 삼락동 686

How to get there: Take the subway to Sasang Station and use exit 3. The park is directly ahead following the road straight. The Busan Seobu Intercity Bus Terminal is also in this area, which makes it a good place to visit for a day trip from other cities.

Dalmaji Hill & Dalmaji-Gil Road

Dalmaji Hill is perfect for quiet strolls away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Haeundae Beach. The area is famous for cafe lovers and artists and features markets, galleries, and cosy places to sit and relax. You can walk from Haeundae Beach, but it’s quite far. A better option is to ride the Haeundae Beach Train from Mipo.

In April, the hilly Dalmaji-Gil Road is crowded with cherry trees, creating an intimate forest of blossoms, adding to the area’s own beauty. From atop the hill enjoy breathtaking views of the coast. The area is a favourite with local artists and there are several galleries in the area. On weekends there are art markets at the Haeweoljeong Pavilion square.

Address in Korean: 부산광역시 해운대구 중2동 1488-1

How to get there: Take bus 1003 from Haeundae Beach or bus 39 | 100 | 141 | 200 from Haeundae Traditional Market to Dalmaji Hill and explore on foot. The Haeundae Beach Train stops here, too.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In Daejeon

Daejeon isn’t on most people’s radar when they travel, but it’s a lovely city and certainly comes to life during cherry blossom season. I know, I’ve lived in Daejeon since 2015. There are several great places to view cherry blossoms in Daejeon, including at KAIST University, along the Gapcheon River, and in nearby Gyeryongsan National Park.

The KAIST University campus is reminiscent of a K-Drama filming location and is an ideal place to sit on the grass and enjoy the warm weather while viewing the blossoms. There are various cafes and restaurants to get food and drinks on the campus, and you can even order food to be delivered directly to you while you sit on the grass.

Outside the KAIST University campus is the Gapcheon River, which runs through the central area of Daejeon and is lined with many cherry trees and yellow canola plants. The riverside is a wide public space with parks, bridges, and walkways for people to walk at their leisure. The area near Expo Bridge and Hanbat Arboretum is especially nice.

For cherry blossom festivals near Daejeon, visit Donghaksa Temple in Gyeryongsan National Park. The cherry blossom festival at Donghaksa Temple runs for two weeks in early April and features traditional festival events, such as trot singing, performances, and games. You can also see blossoms falling upon the temple buildings and stone walls.

Address in Korean: 충청남도 공주시 반포면 동학사1로 462 (Donghaksa Temple), 대전광역시 유성구 구성동 (KAIST), 대전광역시 유성구 도룡동 (Expo Bridge)

How to get to Daejeon from Seoul: Take the KTX train to Daejeon Station, then change to the subway. For KAIST University get off at Wolpyeong Station. For Expo Bridge get off at Government Complex Station and walk north.

How to get to Donghaksa Temple: Take bus 107 from central Daejeon and get off at the final stop. Follow the main street to get to the park entrance and Donghaksa Temple.

Where To See King Cherry Blossoms In Korea

King cherry blossoms, which are bigger, brighter, and more pinky than regular Korean cherry blossoms, come from Jeju Island and have spread to a few locations across Korea. These are some of the most photogenic cherry blossoms and, in my opinion, look the best.

Where can you find King cherry blossoms? Apart from Jeju Island, the home to King cherry blossoms, here are a few of the best locations to see King cherry blossoms on the Korean mainland.

• Seosan Gaesimsa Temple
• Seosan Munsusa Temple
• Cheonan Gakwonsa Temple
• Songnisan Beopjusa Temple
• Wansan Flower Garden
• Jeonju Hanok Village

You can find them at other locations, typically at temples and gardens. I can highly recommend Beopjusa Temple, which is where a lot of the King cherry blossom pics for this article come from. It’s not only lovely for cherry blossom viewing, it’s also a very beautiful temple set in the foothills of Songnisan National Park.

When do King cherry blossoms come out in Korea? They’re actually later than the regular cherry blossoms, so if you’re visiting Korea after the main blossoms, you can still see them. King cherry blossoms usually bloom between the last week of April and the first week of May, depending on which part of the country you’re in.

Tour options: Here are some tours you can take that will show you these gorgeous King cherry blossoms.

• Seoul King Cherry Blossom Tour
• King Cherry Blossom Day Trip From Seoul
• King Cherry Blossom Tour From Busan

You can also make your own way to places in Seoul, Busan, and other cities on foot. I recommend downloading Naver Maps and using it to help plan your route.

Tips For Seeing Cherry Blossoms In Korea

Cherry blossom season in Korea is one of the busiest times to travel as local and tourists alike are eager to get the best views. Here are 5 tips that will help you travel more easily and let you make the most of your time in Korea.

1: Book ahead. If you plan to travel and need a hotel or tour, book ahead and make sure you can get a seat or room. I recommend booking tours at least in January or February. Trains can only be booked 30 days in advance.

2: Check the weather. Spring weather in Korea can be unpredictable. Keep an eye on forecasts and be flexible if you can. If it’s raining, check out some alternative indoor activities you can enjoy and adjust plans to be outside when it’s dry.

3: Wrap up warm. Winter winds and chills can persist during Korean cherry blossom season. Bring a jacket and warm clothes, just in case. This is especially important if you’re going to visit a national park.

4: Try unique tastes. Cherry blossom season in Korea brings with it some interesting foods and drinks. Give them a try while they’re available. You’ll mostly find these at festivals, such as the cherry blossom festival in Jinhae.

5: Walk a lot. Put on your walking boots, and explore as much as possible. City streets, riverside pathways, forest trails – experience them all. There are many streets lined with cherry blossoms that won’t be listed here and yet provide photogenic views.

Check out these Korean travel essentials to find more great tips for travelling in Korea.

Weather During Cherry Blossom Season

The weather during cherry blossom season in Korea is cool, with temperatures around 10 – 15 degrees Celsius during the day, rising to 20 degrees on a sunny day. The weather is mild, with clear or cloudy skies and a slight chance of rain. Jeju and the south coast will be warmer than Seoul by a few degrees. Spring starts two weeks earlier in Korea’s southern regions, which is why cherry blossoms in Korea bloom at different times. See the Korean cherry blossom forecast for exact dates.

Tours To See Cherry Blossoms In Korea In 2024

Travellers visiting Korea in spring have various options to see cherry blossoms. Those in major cities such as Seoul and Busan can easily reach popular cherry blossom sights by public transport or by walking around on foot. However, some of the best places to see cherry blossom in Korea are outside big cities and to get to these places, a day trip (or weekend away) is the best option.

Here are 5 of the best day trips to see cherry blossoms in Korea:

1: Jinhae in Changwon City (Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival)

2: Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

3: Jirisan National Park (Hwagae Festival & Gurye Sansuyu Festival.)

4: Gangneung City (Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival)

5: Gyeongju City

You can visit these places by public transport if you’re comfortable with the Korean public transportation system, or book a day tour from a reputable company. Tour companies in Korea that offer cherry blossom tours include Klook, Trazy, and Get Your Guide. Please note, these tours are seasonal and usually available to book from January onwards. If there are no tours available now, check again closer to spring.

Where To Stay To See Cherry Blossoms In Korea

Although some of the best cherry blossom sights in Korea are in the countryside, I’d recommend staying in larger cities like Seoul and Busan and then travelling out for day trips to see cherry blossoms. Hotels in smaller areas like Jinhae and Gyeongju are likely to be more expensive, as well as booked out in advance. You’ll get better deals and more options staying in Seoul or Busan. However, the prices in these cities can be high during cherry blossom season, too.

Book ahead to avoid disappointment and higher prices.

Seoul: Hotels in Myeongdong offer convenient access to N Seoul Tower and royal palaces. Hotels in Hongdae are ideal for visiting Yeouido and Han River parks. Hotels in Gangnam provide easy access to Seokchon Lake and the Lotte World Tower.

Busan: For hotels in Busan, stay in Haeundae or Seomyeon are generally the most convenient for travelling around Busan. Both areas are connected to the subway system and have good bus connections, too.

Jeju Island: For hotels on Jeju Island, stay in either Jeju City or Seogwipo City. Jeju City is closer to the cherry blossom festival, but Seogwipo is closer to nature and has some of the best walking trails along the coast.

Visiting Korea In Other Seasons

Korea is an amazing country to visit any time of year and undoubtedly has four very distinct seasons with lots of other activities, sights, foods, and festivals waiting for you in each one. Therefore, don’t forget to check out my other awesome seasonal guides for Korea to make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip to Korea whenever you travel. Be sure to check out the best spring festivals in Korea, too.

Summer: A hot and rainy time of year, but perfect for getting out to enjoy the best Korean summer activities, such as water sports, camping by the beach, summer festivals, eating yummy Korean summer foods, and getting a tan. If the rain is too heavy, there are plenty of indoor activities in Seoul where you can stay dry and still have fun.

Autumn: Like spring, autumn is all about nature and the change of seasons represented by the fall foliage. There are many places to see autumn leaves in Korea, including golden gingko leaves and multi-coloured maple leaves, which change from green to gold to red.

Winter: After the beauty of the fall foliage and the rains of summer, winter is the complete opposite – snowy white and extremely dry. Winter has very little rain, which makes it perfect for exploring outside and enjoying one of the many winter activities in Korea. Just make sure you wrap up warm! If you’re visiting Korea in winter, I highly recommend check out my Jeju Island winter itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about seeing cherry blossoms in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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