Local's Guide to Visiting Korea in April (+ Itinerary)

Planning a trip to South Korea in April offers a unique opportunity to experience the country's vibrant spring season, where the landscape is painted in soft pinks, bright yellows, and lush greens.

From exploring the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene coastal beauty of Jeju Island and from the rugged peaks of Seoraksan National Park to the cultural richness of Jeonju Hanok Village, there’s something for every traveler.

April is also the perfect time to visit, whether you’re interested in hiking in Seoul among blooming wildflowers, immersing yourself in traditional Korean culture, or simply enjoying the mild weather.

In April, Korea begins to fully embrace the warmth and beauty of spring. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

As the last traces of winter fade away, the country is bathed in sunshine, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring nature. The skies are usually clear, and the gentle breeze adds a refreshing touch to the air.

This month is also known for its spectacular cherry blossoms, which reach their peak bloom during the first week or so of April. The landscape transforms into a vibrant display of pink and white flowers, creating a picturesque backdrop for walks, picnics, and festivals.

It’s a time when locals and visitors alike enjoy the beauty of nature, whether they’re strolling along the Han River in Seoul, hiking in the mountains, or visiting the many gardens and parks across the country.

April is ideal for visiting Korea if you love mild weather and scenic beauty. With comfortable temperatures and clear skies, it’s perfect for sightseeing, attending festivals, or simply enjoying the outdoors without the extreme cold of winter or the heat of summer.

April in Korea is a popular time for locals and tourists as the country blooms with cherry blossoms and spring flowers. Expect significant crowds, especially in spots like Seoul, Jeju Island, and festival locations. Tourist attractions and parks are bustling, so plan ahead to secure accommodation or visit famous sites during peak times.

April is a peak travel season, so prices for flights, hotels, and tours are higher. Accommodations near major attractions may be expensive and booked quickly, so reserve early - budget options are available if you're flexible and explore less crowded areas.

Despite increased crowds and costs, April offers excellent value. Witnessing Korea's spring scenery, participating in festivals, and enjoying mild weather is worth the visit. With planning, you can navigate the busy season and enjoy Korea during this beautiful time.

Seoul National Cemetery

In April, Seoul National Cemetery becomes a serene and picturesque spot as the cherry blossoms reach their peak, blanketing the area in soft pink hues. This solemn site, dedicated to the nation’s patriots and heroes, offers a peaceful ambiance that’s beautifully contrasted with the vibrant blossoms.

The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes it an ideal place for reflection and appreciation of Korea’s history and springtime splendor.

Namsan Mountain

N Seoul Mountain is a must-visit in April due to its stunning views of Seoul's skyline amidst the cherry blossoms that line the mountain trails. The N Seoul Tower, located at the top, provides panoramic views that are particularly breathtaking during spring with the entire city in bloom.

As you hike or take the cable car up the mountain, you’ll be surrounded by blooming flowers, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Seoul Grand Park

April transforms Seoul Grand Park into a floral wonderland, with blooming cherry blossoms and other spring flowers adorning its vast gardens. The park is home to a zoo, an amusement park, and a beautiful lake, all of which are surrounded by blossoms during this season.

It’s an ideal destination for families and couples looking to enjoy outdoor activities and the beauty of nature in full bloom.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is a paradise in April, with its famous canola fields turning bright yellow, contrasting beautifully against the island’s volcanic landscapes. The mild weather during this month is perfect for exploring the island’s many natural attractions, including Hallasan Mountain and its picturesque hiking trails.

The cherry blossoms here do tend to bloom slightly earlier than on the mainland, offering visitors a chance to experience the spring flowers at their peak.

Seoraksan National Park

April is an ideal time to visit Seoraksan National Park as the snow begins to melt, revealing lush green valleys and cascading waterfalls.

The park’s rocky peaks are framed by blooming wildflowers, creating a breathtaking contrast against the rugged terrain. The moderate temperatures make hiking more comfortable, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the park’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

Yeouido Spring Flower Festival

Held in Seoul's Yeouido district, the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is a celebration of the vibrant cherry blossoms that line the streets along the Han River. This festival symbolizes the arrival of spring, with over 1,800 cherry trees in full bloom, creating a stunning pink canopy.

The festival features cultural performances, street food vendors, and night-time illuminations, making it a lively and enjoyable experience for all ages. The riverside setting, coupled with the festive atmosphere, makes it a must-visit for anyone in Seoul during early April.

Samcheok Maengbang Canola Flower Festival

The Samcheok Maengbang Canola Flower Festival in the coastal city of Gangwon Province celebrates the brilliant yellow canola flowers that cover the fields near Maengbang Beach. This festival symbolizes the renewal and brightness of spring, offering visitors picturesque views of the yellow blooms against the backdrop of the blue sea.

Activities such as photo zones, traditional performances, and local food stalls make the festival both fun and visually stunning. The combination of floral beauty and coastal scenery creates a unique and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.

Cheongsando Slow Walking Festival

The Cheongsando Slow Walking Festival, held on Cheongsando Island, is a unique celebration of the "slow" movement, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. The festival encourages visitors to take leisurely walks along the island’s designated Slow Paths, which meander through fields of barley, canola flowers, and stone walls.

This festival symbolizes a return to nature and a slower pace of life, making it a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. The island’s tranquil beauty and the emphasis on enjoying nature at a slow pace make this festival a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Taean Tulip Festival

The Taean Tulip Festival in Taean County, Chungcheongnam-do, is a vibrant celebration of tulips in all their colorful glory. Held at Korea Flower Park, this festival showcases millions of tulips in various designs and patterns, creating a breathtaking floral display.

The festival symbolizes the beauty and diversity of spring flowers, and it’s a visual feast for flower enthusiasts and photographers. Along with the tulips, the festival also features other spring blooms, night-time illuminations, and cultural performances, making it a lively and colorful event.

Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival

The Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival, held on Goryeosan Mountain in Incheon, celebrates the blooming of azaleas that turn the mountain’s slopes into a sea of pink. This festival symbolizes the resilience and beauty of nature, with the azaleas thriving in the mountainous terrain.

Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that offer stunning views of the flowers in full bloom, as well as the surrounding landscape. The festival is a wonderful opportunity for nature lovers to experience the breathtaking beauty of azaleas in a serene and picturesque setting.

Korean Arbor Day, known as Sikmogil (식목일), is a holiday dedicated to tree planting and forest conservation efforts across South Korea. Celebrated on April 5th each year, this day emphasizes the importance of trees in sustaining the environment and promoting ecological balance.

The holiday was established in 1949 as part of the country's efforts to recover from the environmental devastation caused by the Korean War. Over the years, it has grown into a significant event where citizens, government officials, and various organizations unite to plant trees and raise awareness about the need to protect and expand the country's forests.

Schools, communities, and public organizations often hold tree-planting ceremonies, educational activities, and campaigns to encourage the public to participate in greening efforts.

While Arbor Day is no longer a public holiday for government workers, in schools it remains an important day for environmental activism in Korea, reflecting its ongoing commitment to ecological preservation and sustainability.

Cherry Blossom-Flavored Treats

April is cherry blossom season in Korea, and many cafes and bakeries offer special cherry blossom-flavored treats. You can find cherry blossom ice cream, cakes, and even cherry blossom lattes that capture the delicate and fragrant essence of the flowers.

Jjukkumi

April is the peak season for jjukkumi, a small octopus typically stir-fried with spicy gochujang (Korean chili paste) and served with various vegetables. This dish is both flavorful and has a nice chewiness, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

Bomnamul

April is also a great time to enjoy bomnamul, which are seasonal wild greens harvested in the spring. These greens are often lightly seasoned with sesame oil, garlic, and soy sauce and served as a side dish. They are fresh and nutritious and give a taste of Korea's seasonal bounty, generally foraged from the Korean mountains.

Samgyetang

Though often associated with summer, samgyetang is also enjoyed in the cooler spring months. This nourishing soup, made with a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujube, is perfect for restoring energy after a long day of exploring.

Hotteok

As the weather is still a bit cool in April, hotteok, a popular Korean street food, is a comforting snack. These warm, sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar, honey, and nuts are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them a delicious treat while strolling through the markets.

Day 1: Explore Seoul’s Cherry Blossoms

Start your trip by exploring the beautiful cherry blossoms in Seoul. Begin your day at Seoul National Cemetery, where you can walk among the tranquil cherry blossom-lined paths and reflect on Korea’s history. This peaceful site is particularly stunning in April, with the cherry trees in full bloom.

In the afternoon, head to Namsan Mountain and hike up to the N Seoul Tower. The trails are surrounded by cherry blossoms, offering breathtaking views of the city and the pink blooms.

End your day with a leisurely stroll around the Han River, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival. The festival’s nighttime illuminations will make for a magical end to your first day.

Day 2: Experience Korea’s Coastal Beauty

On your second day, take a day trip to Jeju Island with a very early morning flight. The island is a paradise in April, with its famous canola fields turning bright yellow, creating a stunning contrast against Jeju’s volcanic landscapes. Spend the day exploring the island’s natural beauty, starting with a hike up Hallasan Mountain for panoramic views of the island and its blooming flowers.

Afterward, visit the coastal areas and enjoy the fresh seafood Jeju is known for. In the evening, take a leisurely drive around the island to witness the cherry blossoms in full bloom, which tend to peak slightly earlier than those on the mainland (often in late March). Regardless, Jeju in April offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure.

Day 3: Discover the Mountain Blooms

Begin your third day by visiting Seoraksan National Park, where the melting snow reveals lush green valleys and cascading waterfalls.

April is an ideal time for hiking, as the temperatures are moderate, and the park is adorned with blooming wildflowers. Enjoy a hike through the park’s trails, taking in the breathtaking views of the rugged peaks and vibrant flora.

After Seoraksan, head to Goryeosan Mountain for the Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival. The mountain’s slopes are covered in a sea of pink azaleas, providing a stunning backdrop for your hike. This festival is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Korea’s natural beauty and enjoy the serenity of the mountainous landscape.

Day 4: Embrace Korea’s Festive Spirit

On your fourth day, dive into the festive spirit by visiting the Samcheok Maengbang Canola Flower Festival. Held near Maengbang Beach, this festival celebrates the bright yellow canola flowers that bloom in April. Take your time to explore the fields, enjoy local delicacies, and participate in traditional performances that give you a taste of Korean culture.

Day 5: Relax and Enjoy Floral Displays

Conclude your trip with a relaxing day at the Taean Tulip Festival in Taean County. This festival showcases millions of tulips in vibrant colors arranged in beautiful designs and patterns at Korea Flower Park. Spend your morning wandering through the stunning tulip displays, taking plenty of photos of the breathtaking floral art.

In the afternoon, return to Seoul and enjoy some free time shopping or exploring local markets. Try some seasonal treats like cherry blossom-flavored desserts and warm up with a comforting bowl of Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup). End your day with a peaceful evening walk along the Han River.

Seoraksan National Park & Naksansa Temple 1-Day Tour

The Seoraksan National Park & Naksansa Temple 1-Day Tour offers a refreshing escape from Seoul, delving into South Korea's natural beauty and cultural heritage. This tour is ideal for exploring fall and early winter landscapes. Lasting about 11 hours, this tour immerses you in the serenity of Seoraksan National Park and the history of its Naksansa Temple.

The journey begins with a pick-up from one of three Seoul locations: Hongik University Station, Namsan Yejang Bus Parking Lot, or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station.

Enjoy a round-trip ride to Seoraksan National Park, which is noted for its granite peaks, forests, and streams. The park is particularly beautiful in the fall, with foliage in vibrant colors, but its become a popular spring destination for its deep greenery an dblooms. The cable car fee is not included but is highly recommended for panoramic views.

Following Seoraksan, visit Naksansa Temple, a tranquil Buddhist site overlooking the East Sea. Admission fees for both sites are included, and an English- or Chinese-speaking tour staff member will guide you. While lunch is not provided, you can purchase a meal of your choosing, making this tour a flexible blend of nature and culture.

Jeonju Hanok Village & Seasonal Attractions 1-Day Tour

The Jeonju Hanok Village & Seasonal Attractions 1-Day Tour offers a 13-hour immersive experience into Korea's cultural heritage and seasonal beauty. The tour includes pick-up options at Hongik University Station, Myeongdong Station, and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station in Seoul.

After the 2-hour drive down, you'll start by exploring Jeonju Hanok Village, which has over 800 preserved traditional Hanok houses. For an authentic touch, an optional Hanbok experience is available. The tour adjusts its attractions per season, showcasing spring blossoms, summer greenery, or autumn hues.

It includes round-trip transportation and guidance from English- or Chinese-speaking staff. Entrance fees are covered; but note that trip insurance and personal expenses are not included.