South Korea Cherry Blossom Travel Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Last Updated: August 01,2025

Each spring, South Korea transforms into a magical landscape as cherry blossoms—called Beotkkot (벚꽃) in South Korea—paint the country in soft shades of pink and white. While Japan often comes to mind as the go-to destination for cherry blossom viewing, South Korea offers an equally enchanting experience, often with fewer tourists. This makes it a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful and more intimate spring escape. What truly sets South Korea apart is the way these blossoms complement its traditional palaces, local cuisine, and warm hospitality, creating a uniquely memorable atmosphere for travelers. Thinking about amzing cherry blossom in South Korea 2026? Contact us to add a private South Korea cherry blossom tour to make your spring adventure even more memorable. 

Table of Contents

1. Best Time to See Cherry Blossom in South Korea 2026

2. Popular Destinations for Cherry Blossoms in South Korea

3. South Korea Cherry Blossom Festivals 2026: Dates, Locations & What to Expect

4. Facts about Korean Cherry Blossom

5. FAQs about 2026 Cherry Blossom in South Korea

Best Time to See Cherry Blossom in Korea 2026

Planning a trip to South Korea for cherry blossom season in 2026? The South Korea cherry blossom season 2026 will start from Jeju Island in the south of South Korea and end in Incheon in the north of South Korea. In South Korea, every spring, cherry blossoms decorate the country into a fairy tale world. The cherry blossom season in South Korea usually lasts from late March to early April, but the flowering period may fluctuate due to annual weather changes.

LocationForecasted Flowering DateForecasted Full Bloom DateFlowering Date in Average Year
Jeju IslandMarch 20-25March 27-April 2March 27-April 2
BusanMarch 25-30April 1-7March 28-April 3
GyeongjuMarch 28-April 2April 5-10April 1-7
Jinhae(Changwon)March 30-April 4April 7-12April 3-9
DaeguMarch 29-April 3April 6-11April 2-8
SeoulApril 2-7April 9-14April 5-11
IncheonApril 3-8April 10-15April 6-12
Gangwon-doApril 15-20April 15-20April 10-16

The cherry blossom journey begins in the south of South Korea. Jeju Island, as the pioneer of cherry blossoms, is the first to bloom around March 20. The Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival also kicks off in late March, playing the opening music of the cherry blossom viewing season. Then, around March 23, the cherry blossoms in Busan also bloomed, and the city immediately turned pink.

As time goes by, the wave of cherry blossoms advances northward. Around April 1, Seoul and Gangneung also experience cherry blossoms. As the capital of South Korea, Seoul is very lively during the cherry blossom season. Yeouido Park is built along the Han River, with more than 1,700 cherry blossom trees taking root here. During the Yeouido Spring Festival held in mid-April, it becomes a sea of joy, with people walking between cherry blossom trees and special souvenirs sold at festival stalls.

If you want to immerse yourself in the charm of the Korean cherry blossom season in 2026, join us on this enchanting experience, and customize your unique private cherry blossom viewing route for 2026 in South Korea.

Popular Destinations for Cherry Blossoms in South Korea

Seoul

Cherry blossom in Seoul, South Korea, boasts numerous picturesque spots for spring cherry blossom viewing, each offering distinct charms and experiences. One of the most famous is Yeouido Park, nestled along the Han River, which transforms into a floral paradise during the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival. The park features a breathtaking 5.7-kilometer pathway adorned with more than 1,800 cherry trees, forming a stunning pink canopy overhead. Visitors can explore festival stalls serving up classic Korean street food, including spicy korean rice cakes (Tteok-bok-ki, 떡볶이) and crispy-sweet pancakes (Hotteok, 호떡), alongside handmade crafts from local vendors. As night falls, the blossoms are gently lit by ambient lights, casting a magical glow over the park and creating an enchanting fairytale-like ambiance. It's no wonder the area becomes a favorite spot for couples and families looking to capture beautiful memories and soak in the romantic spring atmosphere.

Spicy Korean Rice Cakes

Crispy Sweet Pancakes

Seokchon Lake offers one of Seoul’s most picturesque cherry blossom experiences. The still waters perfectly reflect the pink blooms, creating a dreamy mirrored  landscape. For an immersive view, rent a paddleboat and glide beneath the flowering  branches—their delicate petals nearly brushing your fingertips. Lakeside cafés provide the perfect perch to sip coffee while soaking in the scenery. On weekends, the ambiance comes alive with buskers filling the air with music, turning your blossom viewing into a vibrant cultural moment.

For a blend of history and nature, Gyeongbokgung provides a cultural backdrop with blossoms draping over pavilions and bridges. You can join a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history while admiring the cherry blossoms. If you wear traditional Hanbok, you can enter the palace for free, which is a great way to take some memorable photos. The garden is also a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful scenery. 

Photos of Wearing Hanbok at Cherry Blossom Spots in Korea

Namsan Mountain also offers picturesque hiking trails with panoramic views of the capital, adorned in pink and white hues. The hiking trails are suitable for people of all fitness levels, and there are rest stops along the way where you can take a break and enjoy the view. At the top of the mountain, you can see the entire city of Seoul with cherry blossoms scattered everywhere, which is a breathtaking sight.

Gyeongju

Gyeongju, a historic city rich in cultural heritage, is a prime cherry blossom destination in South Korea, where the ancient ruins and cherry blossoms form a perfect contrast. Bomun Lake is a highlight, featuring approximately 9,000 cherry trees along an 8 - km trail, with stunning reflections of the blossoms on the water. You can walk or cycle along the trail, enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are also some small islands in the lake connected by bridges, which are great spots to take photos.

Visitors can also explore UME Travel---listed sites such as Bulguksa Temple and the ancient Gyeongju Tombs, where cherry blossoms enhance the scenic beauty. At Bulguksa Temple, you can participate in a temple stay program, experiencing the life of a monk and meditating among the cherry blossoms. The ancient Gyeongju Tombs, with their large mounds surrounded by cherry trees, give people a sense of history and tranquility.

Andong Hahoe Folk Village offers additional cultural experiences with traditional performances and activities amid blooming trees. You can watch traditional Korean dances, such as the fan dance and drum dance, and even try to learn some basic moves. There are also workshops where you can make traditional crafts like pottery and paper-making. The village's traditional houses, with cherry blossoms in front of them, are like something out of a painting.

Busan

Busan, situated in South Korea's far south, enjoys one of the country's earliest cherry blossom seasons, offering visitors a head start on springtime beauty. A prime viewing location is Oncheoncheon Stream, where rows of cherry trees form a stunning floral canopy along the walking paths. The stream's crystal-clear waters, teeming with fish and dotted with gentle waterfalls, enhance the serene and scenic atmosphere.

Oncheoncheon Cafe Street offers a charming atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the blossoms while sipping coffee. The cafes have outdoor seating areas, so you can sit outside and watch the cherry blossoms fall like snowflakes. Many of the cafes also serve unique desserts made with local ingredients, such as cherry blossom-flavored cakes and ice cream.

Namcheon-dong's Samik Beach Town features cherry trees forming an arch over the road, making for a scenic drive. You can drive slowly along the road, enjoying the beautiful view, or park your car and walk around the town. The town has many small shops and restaurants, where you can buy souvenirs or try local seafood.

Dalmaji Hill provides stunning coastal views framed by cherry blossoms, while nearby Gwangalli Beach allows visitors to relax by the sea after enjoying the spring blooms. You can take a walk on the beach, feel the sea breeze, and watch the sunset with cherry blossoms in the background. It's a perfect way to end a day of cherry blossom viewing.

Jeju

Jeju Island, renowned for its breathtaking volcanic landscapes and pristine natural beauty, offers one of Korea's most spectacular cherry blossom experiences—especially with its rare king cherry trees (왕벚나무). Among the island’s top viewing spots, Jeju National University stands out, where these majestic trees bloom with extraordinary grandeur. Unlike ordinary cherry blossoms, the king cherry variety dazzles with larger petals and a deeper, more vibrant pink hue, creating a striking contrast against Jeju's azure skies. Their dramatic size and vivid color make them a mesmerizing highlight of South Korea's spring.

The annual Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival takes place around Jeon nong-ro and Seogwipo downtown, featuring cultural performances, street food, and scenic walking paths lined with blooming trees. The cultural performances include traditional Jeju folk dances and music, which are very distinctive. The street food includes Jeju's famous black pork barbecue and abalone porridge, which are must - tries.

Other prime locations for cherry blossom viewing include the Jeju Sports Complex and Seogwipo's downtown area, where visitors can admire the rare and spectacular king cherry tree blossoms. The Jeju Sports Complex has a large lawn where you can have a picnic with friends and family under the cherry trees. Seogwipo’s downtown area is a bustling place with many shops and restaurants, and the cherry blossoms add a touch of beauty to the busy streets.

You can contact us to spend your spring vacation in South Korea. UME Travel provides private customization services, and we will help you customize your travel according to your preferences.

Korea Cherry Blossom Festivals 2026: Dates, Locations & What to Expect

South Korea hosts numerous cherry blossom festivals every April, attracting visitors from around the world, each with its own unique features and attractions. Korea's cherry blossom festivals are more than just floral views—they’re full-on spring celebrations! In 2026, don't miss the famous Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, and Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon. We cover festival dates, what’s unique about each one, and how to make the most of your visit.

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival

Highlights: The largest cherry blossom festival, famous attractions and photo sanctuaries such as Yuzawa (여좌천) and Qinghe Station (동화역)

Time: Usually early April (late March to early April, approximately 10 days in duration )

Address: Jinhae-gu, Changwon City, Gyeongsangnam-do

Traffic Advice: 

A free festival shuttle bus runs from 9:00am to 9:00pm, every 10-15 minutes, covering key points throughout the festival.

The city tour bus ticket price is about $2.30(adult), and you can hop on and off at multiple stops, making it very convenient to visit major attractions.

Entrance Fee: Free

Each spring, South Korea transforms into a breathtaking pink paradise as cherry blossoms blanket the country. The crown jewel of these floral celebrations is the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival (진해군항제), held in Jinhae City, Gyeongsangnam-do. Renowned as "Korea’s Most Spectacular Cherry Blossom Event," it draws millions of visitors who come to marvel at the enchanting fusion of blooming sakura and naval heritage.

Originating in 1952 to honor the founding of the Republic of Korea Navy and the legendary Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s unwavering patriotism, the festival has since blossomed into one of the nation’s largest springtime attractions. By late March to early April, Jinhae’s streets and waterways become a fairytale landscape, with thousands of cherry trees forming ethereal "flower tunnels" that captivate all who wander beneath them.

Travel Tips

  • The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is a free admission public celebration activity, and there is no need to purchase tickets to watch most flower viewing attractions. However, some performances, concerts, night tours, and boat tours require ticket purchases

  • Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing, bring water and snacks, and pay attention to child safety. Try to avoid weekends and visit on weekdays after the opening ceremony (3.28).

  • Local accommodation resources in Jinhae are limited and expensive, so it is usually recommended to stay in Busan or Changwon and take a day trip to Jinhae.

Yeouido Spring Flower Festival (Seoul)

Yeouido Spring Flower Festival

Highlights: The best cherry blossom spots in Seoul, cherry blossom tree-lined street stretches 1.7 km, with night light displays for evening strolls.

Time: April 4-9

Address: Yeouiseo-ro Road, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul (near the National Assembly Building)

Traffic Advice: Take Line 9 to Capitol Station Exit 1 or 6, or Line 5 to Yeouinal Station Exit 1/2/3, and walk to the tour route

Entrance Fee: Free

Spring in Seoul brings a touch of magic, and the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival stands out as one of the city’s most enchanting seasonal highlights. Every year, Yeouiseo-ro becomes a spectacular floral paradise, where over 1,800 cherry blossom trees arch over the street, creating a dreamy pink canopy. This iconic festival attracts crowds from across the country—and beyond—with its mesmerizing scenery.

As the festival’s main venue, the tree-lined boulevard offers more than just blossoms. Visitors can enjoy a lively program of events, from grand opening ceremonies to performances by local and international artists. The celebration also features floral-themed exhibitions, including photography displays and sculpture installations, adding an artistic flair to the natural beauty.

Travel Tips

  • Best viewing time: Early morning (6:00-8:00): few people, soft light, suitable for taking photos. Weekdays (Monday to Thursday): Peak traffic on weekends (more than 100,000 people per day).

  • The flowering period is short: the cherry blossoms are in full bloom for only about 5-7 days, so it is recommended to adjust your itinerary flexibly.

  • During holidays, car access is restricted and it is recommended to take public transportation.

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival & Marathon

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival & Marathon

Highlights: The combination of beautiful cherry blossoms and ancient historical relics, a cherry blossom marathon race

Time: Early April

Address: Gyeongju City, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Traffic Advice: Take the KTX to Singyeongju Station, then take a bus or taxi to the attraction

Entrance Fee: Free

The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival is a beloved spring celebration held in Gyeongju, a city rich in history and cultural heritage. As cherry blossoms bloom across the city—especially around Bomun Lake, Gyeongju National Park, and historic sites like Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond—visitors gather to enjoy the stunning scenery, traditional performances, local food, and various cultural experiences.

The streets and paths are lined with pale pink cherry trees, creating a breathtaking natural tunnel that attracts photographers, families, and travelers from around the world. The combination of blooming cherry blossoms with the backdrop of ancient Silla Dynasty landmarks makes Gyeongju one of the most picturesque cherry blossom destinations in Korea.

Travel Tips

  • Some scenic spots (such as Bulguksa Temple, Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Park, and Cheomseongdae Observatory) will also hold special events or night illumination during the peak flowering period to add a mysterious atmosphere to the cherry blossoms.

  • Gyeongju Sakura Marathon is usually held as part of the festival in early April every year (for example, in 2025, it will start at 8 am on Saturday, April 5) at the Bomun Tourist Complex (Gyeongju Bomun Resort).

  • During the festival, there will be a lot of people, so it is recommended to book accommodation and transportation in advance (you can choose urban buses, taxis or chartered resorts). If you want a more scenic travel experience, you can also rent a bicycle to travel around the lake.

Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival

Jeju Island Cherry Blossom Festival

Highlights: The rare King Cherry Blossoms (왕벚꽃), large and pale-pink petals

Time: March 23 - April 1

Address: Gyeongju City, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Traffic Advice: By taxi: It takes about 15–30 minutes (depending on traffic conditions) and costs about $8.50–$17.00. By bus: You can take the city bus to Jeonnong-ro or the cherry blossom road around Jeju University. Recommended buses: 365, 281, 300, etc. (T-money cards can be used)

Entrance Fee: Free

Jeju cherry blossoms have distinct life traits from Japanese cherry blossoms. It is said to be a native species unique to Jeju Island, with larger petals and a purer color compared to regular cherry blossoms. When these flowers bloom in clusters, they look like clouds or mist from a distance, but up close, each one maintains a clear outline and dignity. This contradictory aesthetic trait - both integrated and distinct in personality - is just like the temperament of Jeju Island itself, belonging to and independent of the peninsula in the cultural map of South Korea.

During the Cherry Blossom Festival, the campus roads of Jeju University become the most famous cherry blossom viewing spot. The cherry blossom tunnel, which stretches for hundreds of meters, forms a breathtaking natural arch. As petals fall with the wind, time seems to be enchanted. On a rainy morning, I saw several old women standing quietly under a tree holding transparent umbrellas. They looked up and gazed at the flowers, as if performing some ancient ritual. Raindrops hit the petals and then slide down, creating a moment of crystal clarity that reminds people of the water droplets falling from the hair tips of Jeju Sea women when they float up from the sea - two completely different life experiences, yet sharing similar moments of crystal clarity.

Travel Tips

  • Spring is the peak season for tourism in Jeju, especially during the flower viewing period, when air tickets, homestays, and car rentals are frequently sold out. It is recommended to book at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during the flower viewing period.

  • Jeju has strong sea breezes in spring and the blooming period is short, so it is recommended to pay attention to the local weather forecast in advance to prevent continuous rain from affecting the flowering conditions.

  • The recommended time periods for cherry blossom viewing are 7:00-8:00 in the morning, when there are fewer people and the light is softer; and 2:00-4:00 in the afternoon, when the sun is brighter and the colors are more vivid; avoid the midday crowd peak.

Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival

Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival

Highlights: Enjoy cherry blossoms along the scenic Gyeongpo Lake, a favorite photography location

Time: Early April

Address: Gangneung City, Gangwon-do

Traffic Advice: Take the No. 181 main city bus to Jeju University (The island is suitable for self driving tours, and rental cars are available at the airport. An international driver's license or translation is required.)

Entrance Fee: Free

The Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual spring celebration held in Gangneung, a beautiful coastal city on South Korea’s east coast. The festival takes place around Gyeongpo Lake, one of the most scenic cherry blossom viewing spots in the country. Visitors can enjoy over 4 kilometers of cherry blossom-lined paths, with pink petals reflecting off the calm waters of the lake.

The festival typically occurs in early to mid-April, when the cherry blossoms reach full bloom. During this time, the area comes alive with live performances, food stalls, photo zones, night-time light displays, and local craft markets. The nearby Gyeongpo Beach, Gyeongpodae Pavilion, and Ojukheon House (a historic site) add to the cultural and natural charm of the experience. It’s an ideal destination for couples, families, and photographers looking to enjoy a blend of coastal beauty, floral landscapes, and festive energy.

Travel Tips

  • In response to local environmental protection requirements, the use of disposable plastic cups is prohibited (recyclable tableware is provided on site).

  • Visitors should be prepared for the wind. It is windy near the lake, so it is recommended to wear a hat/fix your phone.

  • Drones are prohibited from flying (military sensitive area).

Daegu E-World Cherry Blossom Festival

Daegu E-World Cherry Blossom Festival

Highlights: Famous for night cherry blossoms with romantic light displays—great for couples

Time: Late March to early April

Address: E-World Theme Park, Daegu

Traffic Advice: Take Daegu Subway Line 2 → Get off at Duryu Station → Walk about 10 minutes from Exit 15 to E-World

Entrance Fee: 


AdultsTeensChildren
All-day Ticket$37.70$33.85$30.10
Night Ticket (After 17:00)$26.90$25.40
$25.40

Daegu's most dreamy cherry blossom festival, just come and we'll take care of the rest, we can help you book online in advance, use social media offers, credit cards or Naver Pay to enjoy discounts, starting at about  $21.50 (all-day ticket) /  $15.30 (night ticket)! Including tickets, nighttime cherry blossom viewing, observation tower climbing, and lantern viewing and photo taking, we'll book the best time for you in advance to avoid the crowds and have fun.

Every spring from mid-March to early April, Daegu’s E World theme park transforms into a dreamlike sea of pink cherry blossoms, offering one of the most enchanting floral experiences in South Korea. It features the country’s earliest blooming and largest night-lit cherry blossom display, with three times more cherry trees than Yeouido in Seoul. Home to one of Korea’s earliest-blooming cherry blossom displays, EWorld features three times more cherry blossom trees than Yeouido’s Yunjung-ro. By day, the park is drenched in soft pink hues; by night, dazzling LED illuminations transform the trees into a romantic wonderland.

Travel Tips

  • Items not allowed include large picnic blankets, folding chairs (unless without backrest and ≤30cm high), tents, gas stoves, etc. Also prohibited are scooters, electric children's cars, bicycles, pets (including dogs), drones and large filming equipment.

  • You are only allowed to eat your own food in the designated area. If you eat in other places, you may be asked to leave or your food may be confiscated.

  • The night view is very dreamy with the "Sakura Light Show" after sunset. It is especially recommended to overlook the night view of cherry blossoms and the city from the 83rd Tower Observation Deck.

Facts about Korean Cherry Blossom

Korean Cherry Blossom Culture

The blooming of cherry blossoms is an important symbol of the arrival of spring in South Korea, and their brilliant blooming is seen as a manifestation of the vitality and vigor of spring. People feel the beauty and joy brought by the changing seasons by appreciating cherry blossoms. In the cultural context of South Korea, the blooming of cherry blossoms also implies a cherish for peaceful life and a beautiful expectation for the future. 

The cherry blossom viewing culture in South Korea is often associated with historical events and hero commemorations, such as the Naval Port Festival, which combines cherry blossom viewing with the commemoration of national hero General Lee Soon sun, making cherry blossoms a link between historical memory and contemporary celebrations, endowing cherry blossoms with richer historical and cultural connotations.

Cherry blossom viewing activities provide people with opportunities for gathering and communication, where family and friends can relax under cherry blossom trees, taste delicious food, and share the joy of life. Cherry blossoms have become a symbol of promoting interpersonal relationships and enhancing community cohesion. It should be noted that the cherry blossom culture in South Korea has also been influenced by the cherry blossom culture in Japan during its development, while incorporating its own historical and social characteristics, forming a cherry blossom cultural significance with local Korean characteristics.

Activities Related to Cherry Blossoms in Korea

In Korea, cherry blossom season is a vibrant time filled with various activities that blend nature appreciation, culture, and community. Here are some key activities associated with cherry blossoms: Cherry Blossom Viewing (Yeouido, Jinhae, and More). The most iconic activity is "yeou" (cherry blossom viewing), where people gather at famous cherry blossom spots to admire the blooming flowers. Popular locations include:

  • Jinhae Gunhangje Festival: One of Korea’s largest cherry blossom events, combining cherry blossom viewing with naval parades, fireworks, and performances in honor of Admiral Yi Sun-sin.

  • Yeouido Park (Seoul): A urban hotspot with thousands of cherry trees, where locals and tourists picnic under the blossoms, taking photos and enjoying the scenic views.

  • Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival: Held in the historic city of Gyeongju, it pairs cherry blossoms with cultural heritage sites like Bulguksa Temple.

Travelers can immerse themselves in seasonal creativity through cherry blossom-inspired craft workshops. Activities include preserving delicate petals in resin bookmarks or framed keepsakes, handcrafting floral-scented candles and soaps shaped like sakura blooms, and adorning traditional hanji (Korean handmade paper) with elegant blossom designs. These interactive experiences captivate visitors of all ages, offering the perfect handmade souvenir to commemorate Korea's enchanting cherry blossom season.

Cuisines Related to Cherry Blossoms in Korea

Cherry blossoms have an important place in Korean food culture, which is not only an ingredient of cuisine but also a cultural symbol and a reflection of lifestyle. And here are some of the delicacies related to cherry blossoms that cannot be missed during the cherry blossom season in Korea: 

  1. Cherry Blossom Rice Cake: Mainly appearing at the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, it is made by the owner of Jinhae fruit making using the liquid secreted by cherry blossoms and cherry blossom sediment. It looks like cherry blossoms, with a pink filling and a fragrant aroma. 

    Cherry Blossom Rice Cake

  2. Steamed Cherry Blossom Bun: On the basis of ordinary Steamed Bun, cherry blossom powder or cherry blossom extract is added to make it appear a light pink color, more attractive in appearance, and tastes with the fragrance of cherry blossom.Steamed Cherry Blossom Bun

  3. Cherry Blossom Ice Cream: Combining the fragrance of cherry blossoms with the deliciousness of cream, it has a delicate and sweet taste. It can be found on the streets, alleys, or in dessert shops during the Cherry Blossom Festival, and is a great way to cool down and relieve heat.Cherry Blossom Ice Cream

  4. Cherry Blossom Soda Water is a delightful fizzy drink infused with the delicate essence of sakura. Its light floral notes and crisp effervescence create an invigorating thirst-quencher, making it the ideal festival companion during spring blossom viewings. You can find this refreshing beverage at major convenience store chains like GS25.                 Cherry Blossom Soda Water



FAQs about 2026 Cherry Blossom in Korea

Q1: How far in advance do I need to prepare for traveling to Korea for the cherry blossom season in Korea 2026?

A1: 6 months in advance from September will be best. Traveling to Korea during the cherry blossom season requires thorough preparation and planning in advance, including booking hotels and flights, determining the itinerary and sightseeing spots, purchasing tickets for the Korea Cherry Blossom Festival 2026, preparing relevant documents and materials, and so on, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cherry blossom trip. According to our Korea prediction 2026, it is recommended that you start your preparations for the 2026 cherry blossom Korea in September if you hope to smoothly and better enjoy the beauty and culture of the Korean cherry blossom season 2026.

Q2: What events happen during cherry blossom festivals?

A2: There are many highlights of the program during the Cherry Blossom Festival, such as Parades, K-pop performances, and light shows (e.g., Jinhae’s military band parade). There are also some night market activities in the evening—Nighttime illuminations (Seokchon Lake, Yeouido). Food stalls selling Korean street food (호떡, 떡볶) and cherry blossom themed treatments. Of course, you may also have unique experiences: Cherry blossom cruises (Han River, Busan Bay) and Photo zones with traditional Hanbok rentals.

Q3: What is the best month for cherry blossoms in Korea in 2026? Do cherry blossoms last till May?

A3: According to the cherry blossom Korea 2026 schedule by local meteorological observations and related 2026 Korea forecast, late March to early April will be the best time for cherry blossom festival, making Sakura viewing one of the top Korea things to do in March and April. And again, what month is cherry blossom in Korea in 2026? For most areas in Korea, April is the best month to fully enjoy the charm of the cherry blossom tree in Korea. However, is May too late for cherry blossoms in Korea? Keep an eye on the cherry blossom forecast 2026 to get the latest information on the cherry blossom 2026 dates. Here you can also check the best time to visit Korea for more references.

Q4: What are the differences between Japanese cherry blossoms and Korean cherry blossoms?

A4: The differences between Japanese cherry blossoms (Sakura) and Korean cherry blossoms (Beotkkot) extend beyond just their appearance—they reflect distinct cultural meanings, historical contexts, and even botanical traits. Here’s a detailed comparison:

AspectJapanese Cherry BlossomsKorean Cherry Blossoms
Main SpeciesPrunus serrulata (Somei-yoshino)Prunus × yedoensis (King cherry, 왕벚나무)
Petal Shape & ColorPale pink, almost white; fuller bloomsSlightly darker pink; smaller, delicate petals
Blooming TimeLate March–April (earlier in Kyushu)Late March–April (earlier in Jeju)
Tree ShapeElegant, sweeping branchesMore upright, less drooping
LeavesCoppery new leaves appear after bloomingGreen leaves emerge with blossoms

Cherry Blossom Season South Korea 2026 promises to be a magical time to visit the country. With its beautiful blossoms, charming destinations, exciting festivals, and a wealth of activities and delicious food, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages. Whether you're a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a romantic getaway, South Korea's cherry blossom season has something for you. So mark your calendars, plan your trip, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of South Korea's cherry blossom season. Want to combine Japan and Korea in one unforgettable Sakura trip? We can help you build a personalized itinerary for 2026. Consult our professional travel experts to make an inquiry now!



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