Cherry blossoms, known as "Sakura" in Japan and "Beotkkot" in Korea, paint the landscape with shades of pink and white. Exploring Japan and South Korea during the cherry blossom season can be a magical experience, as the blooming cherry blossoms create a breathtaking and picturesque landscape for you to enjoy while immersing in the culture and history of both countries. Contact our travel experts to create your trip if you are planning a private tour across Japan and Korea.
Table of Contents
1. Japan & South Korea Classic Tour 3 Weeks
1.1 18-Day Itinerary in Details
1.2 What to Expect from 18 Days
1.3 Cherry Blossom Spots Highlights
2. Japan Cherry Blossom Season
2.1 Japan Sakura Forecast
2.2 Japan Cherry Blossoms Spots
3. Korea Cherry Blossom Season
3.1 Korea Cherry Blossom Prediction
3.2 Cherry Blossoms Viewing Spots in Korea
1. 3-Week Japan & South Korea Classic Tour
Quick Accesss>>>18-Day Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Osaka - Hiroshima - Seoul - Paju - Incheon Tour
The 18-day Japan and South Korea Classic Tour offers a comprehensive itinerary covering various attractions in Japan and Korea. It includes visits to iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and beautiful natural spots. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Seoul, as well as scenic places like Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Miyajima, and Nami Island.
1.1 Detailed Itinerary of the Japan & South Korea Classic Tour in 18 Days
●Days 1-2: Tokyo Cultural Exploration after Arrival
-Visit Senso-Ji Temple: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and participate in local festivals.
-Asakusa Food Experience: Enjoy a family-friendly food tour in Asakusa and delight in local street food
-Tour Kokyo Gaien Garden: Explore the large garden with historical houses and colorful plants.
-Discover Akihabara: Step into hundreds of stores offering electronics, computer parts, and home goods.
●Day 3: Tokyo Walking Tour
-Explore Shibuya Hachiko: Tokyo's famous meeting point with the iconic Hachiko statue.
-Visit Shibuya Sky Observation Deck: Enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo from the "Sky Edge."
-Discover Harajuku: A district known for extreme teenage cultures and fashion styles.
-Experience Shinjuku Golden Gai: Explore the nostalgic narrow alleys with traditional izakaya houses.
●Day 4: Tokyo to Mt. Fuji Cultural Expedition
-Venture to West Lake Village: Showcase Japan's original scenic beauty with thatched cottage villages.
-Enjoy Lake Kawaguchiko: Enjoy the beautiful scenery with a view of Mount Fuji and Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave.
-Visit Tenjozan Park: Discover a display of Japan's original scenery in the West Lake Village.
-Explore Oshino Hakkai: Tour a set of eight ponds fed by snow melt from Mount Fuji.
-View Arakurayama Sengen Park: Experience the historical shrine with a view of Mount Fuji.
●Day 5: Hakone Classic Tour and Kyoto
-Experience Lake Ashino: Take the Hakone Pirate Ship for a scenic ride.
-Explore Owakudani: Witness bursts of white smoke and the smell of sulfur.
-Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto: Enjoy a high-speed train experience.
●Day 6: Kyoto's Cultural Journey
-Admire Kinkaku-ji Temple: Explore the Golden Pavilion reflected in the lake and surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
-Explore Kiyomizu-dera: Visit one of Kyoto's oldest monasteries with a Shimizu stage.
-Experience a Kimono and Tea Ceremony: Immerse in the traditional Japanese culture and etiquette.
●Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka
-Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha: Explore the headquarters of the Inari shrines with a history dating back to the 8th century.
-Explore Uji: Visit the famous tea-producing region known for high-quality tea.
-Visit Nara Park: Discover a park with over 1,200 roaming deer and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tōdai-ji Temple.
●Day 8: Hiroshima Full Day Highlights
-Visit Hiroshima's Atomic Bomb Dome: Explore the place of prayer for peace.
-Explore Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Wander through a large park with trees, lawns, and walking paths.
-Uncover Hiroshima Castle: Discover Carp Castle, originally built in the 1590s and rebuilt in 1958.
●Day 9: Miyajima Full Day
-Explore Miyajima Island: Experience the romantic island with wild deer.
-Appreciate Itsukushima Shinto Shrine: Discover the iconic "floating" torii gate.
●Day 10: Osaka Adventure
-Explore Kuromon Ichiba: Visit Osaka's lively covered market.
-Stroll around Osaka Castle: Discover the historic castle with a rich history.
-Explore the Osaka Museum of History: Learn about the region's historic and cultural heritage.
-Visit Umeda Sky Building: Enjoy a landmark of Osaka with an observation deck.
●Day 11: Free Day
-Enjoy free time for self-arrangement in Osaka.
●Day 12: Departure from Japan and Fly to South Korea
-Enjoy a private transfer to KIX airport and depart from Osaka to your next travel destination: Seoul.
●Day 13: Incheon Full-Day Highlights Tour
-Explore Wolmido Island: Discover a beautiful and secluded island getaway in Incheon.
-Journey to Incheon China Town: Explore the lively Chinatown with traditional Chinese gateways.
-Explore Jjajangmyeon Museum: Learn about the history of the noodles.
-Discover Sinpo International Market: Visit a market with over 140 stores offering various items.
●Day 14: Seoul Highlights Tour
-Tour to Blue House: Explore the official residence of the President of South Korea.
-Explore Gyeongbokgung: Visit the first and largest royal palace built during the Joseon Dynasty.
-Visit Bukchon Hanok Village: Discover a historic village with traditional Korean houses.
-Experience a Hanbok: Choose from diverse designs to wear.
●Day 15: Seoul Full-Day Classic Tour
-Enjoy Nami Island: Explore the beautiful island with tree lanes and woodlands.
-Visit The Garden of Morning Calm: Experience one of the best and most beautiful gardens in Korea.
-Explore Myeong-Dong: Discover a busy shopping district famous for beauty and skincare products.
●Day 16: Seoul Highlights Tour
-Tour Namsan Park: Enjoy the largest park in Seoul with walking trails.
-Explore Love Locks: Discover padlocks symbolizing love.
-Stroll around Gwangjang Market: Explore the oldest remaining traditional market in Korea.
-Visit Insadong: Discover a vibrant neighborhood with unique attractions and full of life.
●Day 17: Paju Full-Day Essential Tour
-Visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Discover the region demarcating North Korea from South Korea.
-Experience Paju Imjingak Peace Gondola: Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the DMZ.
-Explore the Third Tunnel of Aggression: Visit a tunnel built by North Korea in the 1970s.
●Day 18: Departure
-Transfer service between Seoul and ICN airport by private car.
The 18-day Japan & South Korea tour encompasses a range of activities such as temple visits, food experiences, cultural tours, and historical explorations. It also provides a mix of transportation modes, including private cars, public transportation, and even a Shinkansen (bullet train) experience.
1.2 What to Expect from the Japan & South Korea Tour in 18 Days
Tourists participating in this 18-day Japan and South Korea Classic Tour can expect to achieve a diverse range of experiences, cultural immersion, and exploration of iconic landmarks. Here's what they can achieve in 3 week's itinerary:
Cultural Immersion:
Explore historical temples, shrines, and palaces, including Senso-Ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Gyeongbokgung Palace, gaining insights into the rich cultural heritage of Japan and South Korea.
Natural Beauty and Scenic Views:
Witness the beauty of Mt. Fuji, explore the picturesque landscapes around Lake Kawaguchiko, and enjoy the natural scenery in places like Hakone, Miyajima, and Nami Island.
City Exploration:
Discover vibrant and dynamic cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Seoul, each offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
Food Delights:
Enjoy diverse culinary experiences, from street food in Asakusa to regional specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in Osaka, providing a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine.
Historical Sites:
Visit historically significant sites such as the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in South Korea, offering a deeper understanding of the complex geopolitical history of the region.
Traditional Experiences:
Engage in traditional activities like a tea ceremony in Kyoto, a kimono-wearing experience, and the exploration of Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, providing a glimpse into traditional lifestyles and adding hands-on elements to the cultural exploration.
Modern Landmarks Discovery:
Visit modern landmarks like Akihabara in Tokyo, the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, and the Blue House in Seoul, showcasing the contemporary aspects of these cities.
Cherry Blossom Viewing:
If the tour coincides with the cherry blossom season, tourists can enjoy the beauty of sakura at locations like Senso-Ji Temple, Kokyo Gaien Garden, Arakurayama Sengen Park, Osaka Castel, Nara Park, and Namsan Park, etc. enhancing the overall aesthetic of the journey across Japan and Korea.
Local Markets Exploration:
Explore local markets like Kuromon Ichiba in Osaka and Gwangjang Market in Seoul, offering opportunities for shopping and tasting local delicacies while experiencing local life.
Flexibility and Free Time:
The itinerary includes free days, allowing tourists to explore on their own or relax, providing a balanced mix of structured activities and personal time.
1.3 Highlights of the Cherry Viewing Spots in This 18-day Itinerary
Cherry Blossom Season typically occurs in spring (usually late March to early April in Japan and late March to early May in South Korea), tourists can expect a magical and picturesque journey enhanced by the beauty of cherry blossoms in 18-day tour across Japan and South Korea.
Sensoji Temple (Day 2 Japan): The juxtaposition of the serene cherry blossoms against the bustling backdrop of Sensoji Temple creates a truly magical atmosphere. Visitors can not only enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms but also immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of this historic site.
Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji (Day 4 Japan): The combination of cherry blossoms around Lake Kawaguchi with the majestic presence of Mt. Fuji in the background is a visual treat. It adds an extra layer of beauty to the already picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination during the cherry blossom season.
Arakurayama Sengen Shrine (Day 4 Japan): This shrine offers a spiritually significant setting enhanced by the delicate pink blooms of cherry blossoms. It's a perfect place to appreciate the ephemeral beauty of the flowers and the cultural richness of the surroundings.
Nara Park (Day 7 Japan): The magic of cherry blossoms in Nara Park, with Tōdai-ji Temple and the friendly deer as a backdrop, creates a scene straight out of a fairy tale. It's a unique experience to witness the intersection of nature, history, and wildlife in one place.
Osaka Castle (Day 10 Japan): Osaka Castle, already steeped in history, transforms into a scenic wonderland during the Sakura season. The cherry blossoms add a touch of softness and beauty to the sturdy structure, creating a harmonious blend of the old and the fleeting beauty of spring.
Nami Island (Day 15 Korea): The Island transforms into a fairy-tale-like landscape with rows of cherry trees lining its pathways during the cherry blossom season. The blend of nature, art installations, and cherry blossoms makes Nami Island a captivating and serene escape.
Namsan Park (Day 16 Japan): The sight of cherry blossoms against the backdrop of N Seoul Tower is particularly breathtaking. Visitors can enjoy a scenic stroll along the park's trails while relishing the beauty of the cherry blossoms, creating a serene escape within the bustling city.
Overall, in addition to enjoying the cherry blossom seasons in both Japan and Korea, tourists can achieve a well-rounded experience encompassing cultural, historical, natural, and culinary aspects of both Japan and South Korea during this 18-day tour.
※For a limited budget on a cherry blossom tour in spring, you can check the following:
>>> 2-week Japan Cherry Blossom Tours (around US$5,000-7,000 per person)
>>>1-week Japan Cherry Blossom Tours (around US$2,500-3,500 per person)
2. Japan Cherry Blossom Season
Japan's cherry blossom season, known as "Sakura," is a spectacular natural phenomenon that captivates locals and visitors alike. The fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms symbolizes the transient nature of life, making it a cherished and celebrated time in Japanese culture. When is the best time to see Cherry Blossom in Japan? Where is the best place to view the spectacular Sakura in Japan?
2.1 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast
Typically between late March and early May, when cherry trees across Japan burst into vibrant hues of pink and white, you can enjoy the enchanting spectacle of Japanese cherry blossom.
※More Details on the Cherry Blossom Japan dates>>> Japan Sakura Schedule
2.2 Japan Cherry Blossom Spots
※More Details on the best places to see Sakura in Japan>>> Japan Sakura Spots
During Japan Sakura season, people engage in "Hanami" (flower viewing) picnics, where they gather beneath the blooming trees to appreciate the ephemeral beauty and partake in the joyous festivities that mark the arrival of spring. There are so many Sakura viewing spots in Japan, and you can check your favorite places in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Mt. Fuji, and Hokkaido to enjoy the Japanese cherry blossom season.
3. Korea Cherry Blossom Season
When is the cherry blossom season predicted to start in South Korea? What month is cherry blossom in Korea? The cherry blossom season in Korea typically occurs in spring, around late March to early April. However, the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions and the specific region within Korea.
3.1 Korea Cherry Blossom Festivals
Here we list the Korean cherry blossom season schedule forecast for your reference.
Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.23
Busan Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.26
Changwon Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.27
Daegu Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.29
Ulsan Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.29
Pohang Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.29
Yeosu Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.31
Gwangju Cherry Blossom Festival: 3.31
Gangneung Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.03
Jeonju Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.03
Mokpo Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.03
Seoul Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.08
Suwon Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.08
Nishiyama Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.09
Chuncheon Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.10
Incheon Cherry Blossom Festival: 4.11
It's recommended to check the cherry blossom forecast closer to your intended visit, as it can help you plan to be there during the peak bloom, ensuring you experience the full beauty of the cherry blossoms. Local meteorological services or tourism boards usually provide updated information on the predicted timing of the cherry blossom season.
3.2 Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Korea
●Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival (March 22nd - April 1st)
Jeju Island is very popular as the first place in South Korea to welcome the blooming of Korea cherry blossoms every year. People who go to Jeju Island in spring must not miss the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival.
In the warm climate of Jeju Island, you can enjoy the spring breeze and sunshine while enjoying the large cherry blossoms, which can only be found on Jeju Island, and take a healing trip for your soul.
Address: 제주특별자치도 제주시 전농로
Diannong-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
Event venues: Jeonnong-ro, Jeju University entrance, etc.
Transportation: Take bus No. 100 from Jeju Airport, get off at Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal and which is about 100m behind the bus terminal
Take a local bus in Jeju City via the bus terminal, get off at the Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal and which is about 100m behind the bus terminal
●Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (March 26 - April 5)
The Jinhae Gunhangje cherry blossom festival was originally held to commemorate the completion of the bronze statue of General Yi Sun-shin in Jinhae City in 1953. It has now become the most famous cherry blossom viewing festival in South Korea.
Gyeonghwa Station near Jinhae is a cherry blossom viewing spot that was introduced by CNN as one of the "50 Beautiful Places to Visit in Korea". Walking along the railroad tracks for about 800 meters, you will feel that rows of cherry blossom tunnels appear in front of your eyes like a scene from a movie. The train, the cherry blossoms, and the railroad tracks are perfect for taking photos during the Jinhae Gunhangje festival.
Address: 경상남도 창원시 진해구 진해대로 648
648 Jinhaedae-ro, Jinhae-gu, Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do
※The Jinhae cherry blossom festival is worthy of a visit and highly recommended if you head to Korea during Spring, tailor your itinerary to include it if your travel budget allows.
●Namsan Park (April 01- April 10)
Namsan Park, located in the center of Seoul, Korea, is home to Seoul's landmark N Seoul Tower. Namsan is 265 meters above sea level, and although it is not very high, it is located in the center of the city and offers a panoramic view of Seoul from the top.
The 236-meter Seoul Tower stands on the top of the mountain. You can overlook the central area of Seoul when you climb the tower. It is the symbol of Seoul along with the Life Building. In addition to Seoul Tower, there are Octagonal Pavilion, Marine Aquarium, Fountain on the top of the mountain, and Botanical Garden and Namsan Library halfway up the mountain.
Nanshan Park is also the filming location for "My Love from the Star" and 20140109 EXO's showtime. People who like Korean dramas can go and relive the classics!
Address: 서울 중구 삼일대로 231
Seoul Jung-gu Sanyi Continent 231
Transportation: Get off at Huixian Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), exit from Exit 4, and walk for 20 minutes
●Seoul National Cemetery (April 01- April 10)
Seoul National Cemetery is located at the main peak at the foot of Gwanaksan Mountain in Dongjak-dong, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, South Korea. Surrounded by mountains on 3 sides and covering 429,800 square meters, the Seoul National Cemetery enshrines the souls of more than 65,000 martyrs including patriotic fighters, national heroes, and military and police officers who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of the nation, security, and development of the country, and the prosperity of the nation. If you are a visitor to Seoul, you must go here, it is guaranteed to be unforgettable for you.
Address: 서울 동작구 현충로 210
210 Hyeonchung-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul
Transportation: Get off at Dongjak Station on Line 4 and take Exit 2 or 4
●Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival (April 01- April 10)
The most representative cherry blossom festival in Seoul is undoubtedly the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival! The cherry blossom viewing location is on Yeouido’s Yeonjung-ro. The Yeonjung-ro is the road behind Yeouido’s National Assembly Building. There are more than 1,400 cherry blossom trees on both sides of the road that are 30-40 years old.
Every year in early and mid-April, cherry blossoms bloom on the 5.7-kilometer-long Yeonjung-ro Road, forming a long pink cherry blossom corridor. During the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, various street performances and special food gather here. Visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing here and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of the celebration.
Address: 서울특별시영등포구국회대로
Seoul Yeongdeungpo-gu Parliament-daero
Transportation: It takes about 8 minutes to walk from Exit 1 of National Assembly Hall Station on Metro Line 9. Or Take Exit 2 of Yeouinaru Station on Subway Line 5 and walk for about 20 minutes.
●Seoul Children's Grand Park (April 01- April 10)
Children's Grand Park is located on Yeungdong Road, Gwangjin District, Seoul, the capital of South Korea. It covers an area of 59.3 hectares and was opened on May 5, 1973.
The Children's Grand Park integrates a zoo, a botanical garden, and an amusement park. It is characterized by preserving the natural scenery of nature as much as possible. There are many trees and grasslands in the park, and the scenery is wonderful. It is a place where children can freely play and have fun in the park. .
Address: 서울특별시 광진구 능동로 216
216 Yeongdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
Transportation: Take Exit 1 of Children's Grand Park Station on Subway Line 7 and walk straight for about 1 minute.
●Gangnam Yangjaecheon (April 01- April 10)
If you want to see beautiful cherry blossoms but don’t want to be crowded during the Korean cherry blossom season, Yangjaecheon is a good choice. The Yangjaecheon in Bundang is a tributary of the Han River. Every spring, two rows of cherry blossoms bloom on both sides of the river. The lush cherry blossoms and the towering metasequoia trees on the bank complement each other.
Address: 서울 강남구 대치동
Daechi-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Transportation: Take the Bundang Subway Line (분당선) and get off at Daemosan Entrance Station, exit 1 or 2, and go straight for about 500 meters.
●Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival (April 01-April 10)
Seokchon Lake may be relatively unfamiliar to everyone, but everyone will definitely know about its neighbor Lotte World Amusement Park. Seokchon Lake Park is the only lake park in the center of Seoul. It is located near Jamsil Subway Station in Seoul. It holds the Cherry Blossom Festival every April. During the Seokchon cherry blossom festival, experience and participation programs will be operated here, such as a cultural and art performance corner, an experience plaza, a food court, and a photo booth.
Along the lake, there are various flowers and trees such as cherry blossoms, agape flowers, pine trees, and willow trees. During the day, the sunshine, flowers, lakes, and mountains are all so pleasing to the eye. At night, the lake park with cherry blossoms blooming and the night view of the city not far away complement each other, which is particularly spectacular.
Address: 서울특별시 송파구 잠실로 148
No. 148, Jamsil-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
Event venues: Seokchon Lake Waterside Stage (East and West Lakes), Seoul Game Plaza, Water Gallery
Conclusion
Our well-crafted itinerary offers a balance of cultural, historical, culinary, and natural experiences, catering to a wide range of interests for tourists seeking a comprehensive exploration of Japan and South Korea. Determine your travel time and destination according to the cherry blossom season forecast and the recommended Sakura viewing spots listed above; get ready to start your dreamy journey across Japan and South Korea.