Best Springtime Destinations

  

Have you ever imagined yourself in a movie, walking along a carpet of flower petals? For all of you romantics out there, turn your fantasy into a reality by joining us for one of Korea’s April festivals. During the month, the country is covered in white cherry blossom petals, mountains are ablaze with yellow forsythias, and villages are blooming with sansuyu (dogwood). Here is a list of the best places across the nation to visit in the spring—all you need is enough time to take a walk and enjoy the flowers.

Spring Flower Parades in the Seoul Metropolitan City Area – Places Easily Accessible by Subway

* Yeouido’s Yunjungno Cherry Blossom Tunnel Yunjungno Path, located behind the National Assembly in central Seoul, is one of the most popular destinations for viewing cherry blossoms. As cherry blossoms begin to peak in early to mid-April, the 5.7km path, lined with 1,400 cherry blossom trees, transforms into a snow-white tunnel, just in time for the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival. Some streets may be blocked off during the festival period, allowing visitors the opportunity to fuly enjoy the cherry blossoms. ☞ Transportation:  1. National Assembly Station (Subway Line 9), Exit 1. 2. Yeouinaru Station (Subway Line 5), Exit 1. 3. Yeouido Station (Subway Line 5 or 9), Exit 2.  ☞ Go to Hangang Yeouido Spring Flower Festival

* * Namsan Mountain’s Cherry Blossoms and Forsythias  The Namsan Circular Road, which connects Namsan Library to Palgakjeong Pavilion and the National Theater in Jangchung-dong, is a beautiful scenic route lined with forsythias, azaleas, and cherry blossoms. Although it stands at an impressive 262 meters above sea level, Namsan Mountain is a fairly easy walk. The walk from Namsan Library at the base to Palgakjeong Pavilion at the top takes about 40 minutes. Alternatives to walking include a cable car and the Namsan shuttle bus to the top, which offers a fantastic view of Seoul. ☞ Transportation :  1. Shuttle Bus - Chungmuro Station (Seoul Subway Line 3 or 4), Exit 2  Take Namsan Shuttle Bus (Yellow) 02 or 05 in front of Daehan Theater (대한극장). - Dongguk University Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 2  Take Namsan Shuttle Bus 02 or 05 (Schedule: 08:00-24:00, 5-8 min intervals / Fare: 950 won) 2. Cable Car - Myeongdong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 3  Walk 10 min. towards the Embassy of China. (Hours: 10:00-23:00 / Fare: Adults (age 14 - 64) 8,000 won (round-trip), 6,000 won (one-way); Children (ages 2-14) & Senior (65 and more) 5,000 won (round-trip), 3,500 won (one-way)) ☞ Go to Namsan Park ☞ Related Page N Seoul Tower in Mt. Namsan, a Landmark of Seoul Night View of Seoul: N Seoul Tower

* Kyunghee University's Cherry Blossom Road With its charming old buildings and beautiful campus, Kyunghee University is both a prestigious educational institution and a popular tourist attraction. In the spring, some 200 cherry trees are in full bloom, lining the road from front gate to the main building, creating a perfect atmosphere for family picnics or romantic dates. Other cherry blossom sites include the paths connecting the main fountain and the College of Law building, and stretching from the College of Hotel Management to the Art College building. ☞ Transportation :  Hoegi Station (Subway Line 1), Exit 1.

* Changgyeonggung Palace Cherry Blossoms Changgyeonggung Palace, one of the major royal palaces in Seoul, is a prime spot for cherry blossoms. The palace is a gorgeous backdrop of ancient architecture in the heart of Seoul for the blooming trees. From time to time, visitors can spot a fantastic shower of cherry blossom rain over the Okcheongyo Bridge. Moreover, diverse kinds of other flowers including maehwa (apricot flowers), sansuyu (cornus fruit) flower, royal azalea are also in full bloom in April. ☞ Transportation :  Hyehwa Station (Subway Line 4), Exit 4 à Go straight, and cross the intersection à Turn left, and continue for 300m to arrive at Changgyeonggung Palace. ☞ Go to Changgyeonggung Palace  ☞ Related Page Thematic Tour-Changgyeonggung

* Spring Flowers Tour in Ilsan Lake Park  Ilsan Lake Park, also known as the “Flower Park,” is home to a large number of flowering shrubs and trees, including 1,800 cherry trees. The majority of the cherry trees are planted near Wolpajeong Pavilion on the artificial island. After the sun sets, the lights add a romantic mood to cherry blossoms and reflections on the lake. Meanwhile, other popular attractions near the park include cultural events at Aram Nuri Arts Center and shopping at the Western Dome. ☞ Transportation : Jeongbalsan Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 2 à Ilsan Lake Park is located approximately 500m from the station. ☞ Go to Ilsan Lake Park