Top 10 Flowering Destinations to Visit in Seoul This Spring

Spring in Seoul is a captivating time characterized by the burst of colorful blooms as nature awakens from its winter rest. From late March through early May, the city transforms into a vibrant tapestry of cherry blossoms, azaleas, and various flowers adorning parks, gardens, and city streets.

Planning to experience Seoul during this enchanting season? Here are some essential flower spots to include in your travel plans:

1. Yeouido Spring Flower Festival (Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Park)

Yeouido Spring Flower Festival (Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Park)

Renowned for its breathtaking cherry blossoms, this festival is among Seoul's most celebrated events, drawing visitors from around the globe. The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is an annual celebration showcasing the vibrant blooms of spring against the scenic backdrop of the Han River at Yeouido Park, Seoul, South Korea.

The festival features an impressive 1,886 Korean cherry trees. Along the Han River, over 1,600 yedoensis (Yoshino cherry) trees of Jeju origin will burst into bloom. In addition to the cherry blossoms, nearly 90,000 flowers, including azaleas, forsythias, and spireas, will also flourish.

Visitors can stroll along the circular Yunjung-ro (road) lined with cherry trees, but the prime viewing spot for the blossoms is from the southern edge of Yeouido Park to the KBS Annex Building. A complementary event, the VIAF (Various Integrative Artistic Festival), features performances including dance, theater, and mime amidst the floral displays throughout the festival.

The festival takes place on Yeouiseo Road (Yunjung-ro) in mid-April. It’s one of South Korea's most eagerly awaited events, drawing thousands of attendees each year. Please note that the specific details of the event are announced seasonally. Admission to the festival is free.

2. Seokchon Lake Park

Seokchon Lake Park, often referred to as Songpa Naru Park

Surrounding a stunning lake, this park is perfect for enjoying cherry blossoms while taking a leisurely stroll or having a picnic beneath the trees. Seokchon Lake Park, also known as Songpa Naru Park, offers a serene and scenic escape in Seoul, South Korea.

Situated in the Songpa District of Seoul, South Korea, the park is in close proximity to Lotte World. Seokchon Lake was originally part of the Han River. In April 1971, a construction project began to connect Burido to the mainland, which involved expanding the Songpa River and closing the Sincheon River. This development led to the creation of Seokchon Lake from the enclosed southern section of the Han River.

The lake covers an area of 217,850 m² (2,344,900 sq ft) and has an average depth of about 4.5 meters (15 ft). Seokchon Lake consists of an East Lake and a West Lake, divided by the 10-lane Songpadae-ro freeway. Visitors can enjoy a bird's-eye view of both lakes from either side of this road.

Surrounding the West Lake are attractions like Seoul Playground and Lotte World’s Magic Island. Nearby the East Lake, you can find the Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Observatory, Songpa Tourist Information Centre, an iSeoulu sign, and Historic Site 101.

The park hosts a variety of festivals, including the Cherry Blossom Festival, Deciduous Street Festival, Seokchon Lake Music Concert, and Seokchon Lake Café Street. It offers breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and a refreshing retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, making it one of South Korea's premier parks and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

3. Namsan Seoul Tower (Namsan Park)

Namsan Seoul Tower, commonly referred to as N Seoul Tower

In addition to offering stunning views of spring blooms, it provides a breathtaking panoramic vista of the city, making it a scenic hotspot. Namsan Seoul Tower stands as a significant landmark and popular tourist destination in Seoul, South Korea.

Perched atop Namsan Mountain in the Yongsan-gu district, the tower was constructed in 1969 and welcomed visitors 11 years later. Initially built as a communication tower, it stands approximately 237 meters tall, reaching nearly half a kilometer above sea level.

Namsan Park, also called Songpa Naru Park, is the largest park in Seoul, drawing over 20,000 visitors daily. The park is renowned for its hiking trails, attractions, and sweeping views of downtown Seoul, with some of the most breathtaking sights available at the peak of Namsan at 262 meters (860 feet) and from the top of N Seoul Tower.

The park features several attractions, including the Mongmyeoksan Beacon Hill Site (Bongsudae), a series of beacons designed to alert the city of approaching enemy forces, the octagonal pavilion known as Palgakjeong, and the Locks of Love, a wall adorned with locks that represent eternal affection for those who attach them.

Namsan Seoul Tower and Namsan Park provide a captivating mix of natural scenery, historical significance, and contemporary charm, making them essential stops in Seoul.

4. Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace, often referred to as Changdeok Palace, stands as a key historical landmark in Seoul, South Korea. It is situated within a spacious park in the Jongno District.

Built in 1405 and completed by 1412, Changdeokgung Palace was the second palace established after Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was destroyed during the Japanese invasion in 1592 and rebuilt in 1609. The palace faced another fire in 1623 due to a political uprising.

In contrast to other palaces, the structures of Changdeokgung Palace harmoniously integrate with the site's natural landscape rather than overpowering it, which is why it was designed as a detached palace.

The palace grounds feature several significant buildings, including the Donhwamun Gate, which serves as the main entrance, and the Geumcheongyo Bridge, one of Seoul's oldest surviving stone bridges. In 1997, Changdeokgung Palace was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Changdeokgung Palace welcomes visitors, and details regarding the admission fee and operating hours can be found on its official website. This palace beautifully combines history, culture, and nature, making it a must-see attraction in Seoul.

5. Jongmyo Shrine

Jongmyo Shrine

In addition to its historical importance, the surroundings of Jongmyo are celebrated for their tranquil ambiance and stunning spring flowers. Located in Seoul's Jongno District, Jongmyo Shrine serves as a Confucian royal ancestral shrine.

Originally constructed during the Joseon era (1392–1897), Jongmyo Shrine was dedicated to memorial services for deceased kings and queens. Built in 1394, it was established when Taejo, the founder and first monarch of Joseon, relocated the capital to Hanseong (now Seoul). The shrine suffered destruction by fire during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598) but was reconstructed in the early 1600s.

Jongmyo Shrine stands as the oldest and most authentic Confucian royal shrine still in existence, with its distinctive layout preserved in its entirety. Key elements of Jongmyo include Jeongjeon (the main shrine) and Yeongnyeongjeon (the Hall of Eternal Peace, an auxiliary shrine).

The shrine remains the site for the Jongmyo Daejae ceremony, where descendants of the royal family pay tribute to the spirits of their ancestors. Jongmyo Shrine was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1995.

Jongmyo Shrine is an important cultural heritage location that provides insight into the customs and rituals of the Joseon Dynasty.

6. Seoul Forest

Seoul Forest

This expansive green area in Seoul features a variety of spaces filled with cherry blossoms, tulips, and other spring blooms set among forested regions. Located in the Seongsu-dong district, Seoul Forest is a vast park in South Korea.

Covering 1,200 hectares (3,000 acres), the park is home to over 400,000 trees and 100 different species of animals. Once a royal hunting ground, it became Seoul’s first water purification facility in 1908 and later served as a racecourse and golf venue.

Seoul Forest comprises five parks spread over approximately 350,000 pyeong (around 1.16 million ㎡). Visitors enjoy walking or cycling, but there are numerous activities available. You can feed deer in the Eco Park, admire cherry blossoms, observe cute rabbits, relax in the Culture and Art Park, have fun at the children’s garden, ride bikes, picnic by the lake, visit the Butterfly Garden, explore the Insect Garden, and experience excitement at the Seoul Forest Skate Park.

During spring, Seoul Forest is a prime spot to witness the stunning cherry blossoms. In autumn, the park transforms into a vibrant display of colorful foliage, particularly with the striking yellow ginkgo trees.

Seoul Forest is accessible throughout the year, open 24/7, with the exception of certain attractions that have specific hours:

Seoul Forest is quickly evolving into Korea's premier urban park, akin to London's Hyde Park and New York's Central Park. It's an ideal spot to unwind in a tranquil setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

7. Kyung Hee University

Kyung Hee University

Renowned for its stunning campus, Kyung Hee University (KHU) is particularly magical in spring when cherry trees bloom, crafting a romantic atmosphere. This private research university is located in both Seoul and Suwon, South Korea.

Founded in 1949, Kyung Hee University is part of the Kyung Hee University System, providing a full range of education from kindergarten to graduate school. It ranks 9th in South Korea and 270th globally according to the QS World University Ranking.

A highlight of Kyung Hee University is the Cherry Blossom Avenue, a picturesque walkway lined with trees that transforms into a stunning sea of pink flowers each spring. This captivating sight draws visitors from all around, making it an essential stop on campus.

Kyung Hee University beautifully exhibits the splendor of every season. Spring brings vibrant cherry blossoms to the campus, while autumn enchants with a spectrum of colorful leaves. Even in winter, the snow-laden scenery presents a charming sight.

8. Haneul Park

Haneul Park

As a part of the World Cup Park network, Haneul Park, also known as Sky Park, is an excellent location to admire blooming canola flowers and various wildflowers in the spring. It's a beloved park in Seoul, South Korea.

The park is famous for its towering pampas grass fields, breathtaking sunset views, and mesmerizing night panoramas of Seoul. It's especially popular in autumn, thanks to its striking silver grass, Ginkgo Maple Trees, and vast grassy expanses.

Haneul Park is located adjacent to World Cup Park. To reach it, take Line 6 of the subway to World Cup Stadium Station. Once there, exit and turn right; you'll find the World Cup Stadium straight ahead. The park is open daily from 05:00 to 22:00 (KST), with hours varying based on the month and sunrise/sunset times.

9. Cheonggyecheon Stream

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Stroll along this revitalized stream that flows through the heart of downtown Seoul. In spring, the banks are adorned with beautiful flower displays. The stream is bordered by a beautifully landscaped path that extends for several kilometers, offering a peaceful retreat from the busy city life. This walkway is enhanced by lush greenery, trees, and benches, creating a tranquil setting for leisurely walks.

Throughout the year, Cheonggyecheon Stream hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals, such as lantern festivals, art showcases, and performances. These happenings draw visitors from all around, enriching the stream's vibrant atmosphere and highlighting Seoul's cultural diversity.

10. Dream Forest

Dream Forest

Renowned for its cherry blossoms, azaleas, and various other blooms, this park provides a peaceful alternative to the bustling city. Dream Forest, or Buk Seoul Dream Forest, is a spacious park situated in the Gangbuk-gu district of Seoul, South Korea.

The park was established on the grounds of the former Dreamland amusement park. It ranks as the fourth largest park in Seoul, following Seoul Forest, Olympic Park, and World Cup Park. Dream Forest is encircled by the lush mountains of Byeogosan and Opaesan.

Offering a diverse range of attractions and abundant natural greenery, the park features the Cherry Blossom Path, Maple Tree Forest, Wolyeongji (Moon Reflecting Pond), Wolgwang Falls (Moonlight Falls), and an observatory that provides breathtaking views of the entire park as well as Bukhansan, Dobongsan, and Suraksan Mountains.

Dream Forest is also home to various cultural venues, including the Dream Forest Arts Center with its Performance Hall and Concert Hall, the Sangsang Toktok Art Museum, along with several grassy areas and plazas that host concerts and performances year-round.

With several restaurants and cafes conveniently situated within its grounds, Dream Forest stands out as one of the most well-equipped parks in Seoul. The park is open daily from midnight to midnight.

You can access the park via subway Line 4 at Miasageori Station, Exit 3 (10-minute bus ride using Gangbuk local buses 09 or 11), or via Line 6 at Dolgoji Station (6 minutes by bus, Bus no. 147), or Lines 1 & 2 at Wolgye Station, Exit 2 (8 minutes by bus, Bus no. 147).

Dream Forest is a cherished spot for both nature lovers and tourists. It’s a tranquil retreat that offers stunning vistas of Seoul.

Enhance your trip by booking tickets and accommodations through Mytour. With Mytour, you can discover great deals on tickets, nearby hotels, flights, and additional attractions. You can also read reviews and receive travel advice to maximize your experience. Start organizing your adventure today with Mytour for a seamless and unforgettable journey!