Experiencing Seoul at the Height of Spring

South Korea’s largest cherry blossom festival in Jinhae draws many visitors from Seoul for day or overnight trips. Streets, streams, and an old train station are lined with dense blossoms and photo spots. Expect heavy congestion at peak hours and sold-out KTX tickets unless booked early. Tours from Seoul help simplify transport for non-Korean speakers.

During early April, Yeouido’s cherry-lined Yeouiseo-ro becomes a pedestrian zone with performances and food stalls. Visitors walk beneath dense blossoms near the National Assembly, often staying into the evening for light displays. The area is extremely crowded at peak bloom, so early morning or late-night visits offer a calmer experience.

Around Seokchon Lake, cherry trees encircle twin lakes next to Lotte World Tower. During the festival, food booths, night lighting, and reflections of the skyscraper in the water attract large crowds. It is especially packed on weekends, so late evening walks are more relaxed. Expect many tripods and photographers around the bridges and lakeside paths.

This festival activates Seoul’s Joseon palaces with night openings, special performances, and themed tours. Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and other sites host craft workshops, guard reenactments, and sometimes food tastings. Some programs require advance online booking due to limited capacity. It is ideal for travelers wanting deeper context beyond standard palace visits.

The city’s spring festa uses multiple venues, from Seoul Plaza to World Cup Stadium and Cheonggyecheon. Programs include K-pop concerts, family activities, and art installations that welcome warmer weather. Many events are free but can require online reservations. Expect weekend congestion around major stages and increased subway usage near World Cup Stadium.

At Ilsan Lake Park in nearby Goyang, this flower expo features large floral sculptures, international displays, and gardening workshops. It is easily reached from Seoul by subway, suiting a half-day trip. Weekends are busy with families and photo-seekers, while weekdays allow slower exploration. Tickets are reasonably priced and there are food courts on site.