Ah, cherry blossoms… We're all captivated by the beauty of these trees that transform landscapes and create an atmosphere full of delicacy when they bloom. So if you're planning a spring trip to Seoul, this is the perfect opportunity to experience it! Here are the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul!

The most popular spots to observe cherry blossoms in Seoul

Yeouido Path and its Spring Flower Festival

Located along the Han River, behind the National Assembly, Yeouido Path ranks among the best places to admire cherry blossoms in Seoul. Indeed, you'll find no fewer than 1,800 cherry trees spanning 1.7 km along Yunjung-ro Street. It's so popular with locals and visitors alike because it hosts the Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival every spring. You can admire the cherry blossoms during the day and also at night, as the trees are illuminated for the occasion. The festival also features parades, flower-decorated floats, singing contests, and other performances.

Seokchon Lake and its Cherry Blossom Festival

Another must-visit spot to see cherry blossoms in Seoul is Seokchon Lake. Located next to Lotte World Park in Seoul, the lake is lined with numerous cherry trees. Paths around the lake allow you to contemplate the beauty of cherry blossoms with the Lotte World Tower—the country's tallest tower—as a backdrop. Each spring, Seokchon Lake hosts its own cherry blossom festival. The program includes concerts, performances, outdoor cinema, food trucks, and day or night walks along the cherry trees.

Seoul Grand Park and its Cherry Blossom Festival

Here's another park that organizes a festival celebrating cherry blossom season. Seoul Grand Park is a complex of parks located south of South Korea's capital in the city of Gwacheon. During the Seoul Grand Park Cherry Blossom Festival, you can see numerous cherry trees in bloom as well as enjoy many activities. Note that the park also features a rose garden, the Seoul Land amusement park, and the Seoul Museum of Modern Art.

Namsan Park

Fancy combining cherry blossom viewing with hiking? Head to Namsan Park! Known for housing the famous N Seoul Tower, the symbol of Seoul, the park is the perfect spot to stroll in nature in the heart of the capital. You'll find the Namsan Dulle-gil, a circular hiking trail of approximately 7.5 km. It starts from the library and takes you to the Palgakjeong Pavilion and the National Theater of Jangchung-dong. Throughout the hike, you'll enjoy magnificent scenery, including the famous cherry blossoms.

Seoul Forest

If you want to enjoy cherry blossoms in a more peaceful and serene setting, visit Seoul Forest. In this large 1,200-hectare park located in the Seongsu district, you'll find an area dedicated to cherry trees. Make the most of this getaway by picnicking, as many locals do. You can also rent a bike, spot deer, and discover an insect and butterfly garden.

The Royal Palace Gardens of Seoul

Planning to visit Seoul's royal palaces during spring? What a wonderful idea! Indeed, the royal palace gardens contain numerous cherry trees that provide a magnificent backdrop when they bloom and will delight photography enthusiasts. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden, Changgyeonggung Palace, and Deoksugung Palace.

Other off-the-beaten-path sites to see cherry blossoms in Seoul

Looking for off-the-beaten-path spots to see cherry blossoms in Seoul? There are unique and less-frequented places to enjoy cherry blossom season. Among them are Haneul Park (featuring a beautiful path lined with cherry trees), Seoul Olympic Park (cherry trees are scattered throughout, but we recommend visiting the octagonal Mongchonjeong Pavilion), Seoul National Cemetery, Hwarangdae Railway Park (offering an unusual backdrop with the contrast between train tracks and cherry blossoms), and Jeongdok Public Library.

When to see cherry blossoms in Seoul?

The dates of the cherry blossom season vary each year depending on climatic conditions. Generally speaking, cherry trees bloom from late March/early April in the Seoul region. Furthermore, if you plan a trip to Seoul between March and May, you'll have a strong chance of seeing cherry blossoms. Note that it's advisable to visit the cherry trees a few days after blooming begins to fully enjoy them.