The spring season is here, so a lot of tourists will be flocking to Japan to witness the wonderful sight of cherry blossoms or Sakura. But did you know that aside from the Land of the Rising Sun, you can also see the flowering cherry trees in South Korea?
Japan's cherry blossoms season attracts tourists from all over the world, starting in March to April when the spring starts. However, there is a lesser-known country that has the same picturesque beauty of Sakura, and that is South Korea.
South Korea is a more affordable cherry blossom destination compared to Japan. The country holds the same season when tourists can witness the stunning blossoming of cherry flowers. It can be best seen in Seoul and on Jeju Island, which flights only cost HK$1,400 and HK$1,800, respectively, from Hong Kong, per Skyscanner, via the South China Morning Post.
Some of the most popular spots where you can see the best cherry blossoms in South Korea are Yeouido and Seokchon Lake in Seoul, and Jeju's Jeonnong-Ro or the cherry blossom street. Jinhae near Busan also holds an annual cherry blossom festival, but going there through Gimhae International Airport is pricier that costs HK$2,500 from Hong Kong this month.
"While many websites will tout the well-known cherry blossom spots as the places to head [to], these locations get packed," Seoul Tourism Organization social media admin Rhiannon Shepherd said. "Expats in Seoul or those adept at avoiding tourist crowds will head to lesser-known areas to get their cherry blossom fix."
Hence, Shepherd advised tourists to visit uncelebrated places that have the same scenic cherry blossom view like ancient places and big university campuses - Kyung Hee, Yonsei, Konkuk and Sungkyunkwan - in Seoul. KWeather predicted that the first blooms might occur on March 21 in Jeju, March 24 in Jinhae, and April 3 in Seoul.
In Japan, on the other hand, influencer Jessica Wang revealed the best places to witness cherry blossom in the country on Forbes. Yasaka-No-To Pagoda in Kyoto will take tourists to a different time and place with its backdrop composed of cherry blossoms. Shirakawa River of Gion's old wooden homes mixed with sakura will give onlookers a mythical atmosphere with its historical setting and architecture.
Also, the 4,000 cherry blossoms planted around Osaka Castle will give viewers a magical feeling with its unbelievable view. Lastly, Chidorigafuchi Park will let travelers boat through the sakura that will give them a calm and mesmerizing experience.
Japan Weather Association revealed the first flowers might be seen on March 16 in Fukuoka, March 17 in Kumamoto, March 20 in Kumamoto, and March 26 in Kagoshima. Kyushu is also predicted to experience the first cherry blossom.
