Many people ask me when is the best time to visit Korea? My answer is always: Spring. After Japan, I would say Korea is the second best destination for spring tour. The good time to catch the peak of cherry blossom is between late March and mid April. Usually cherry blossom starts blooming from the southern part of Korea to the northern part. So it starts from Jeju island (mid March), Busan, Gwangju, Daegu (late March), Seoul and Incheon will be the last which usually falls in early to mid April. The most popular cherry blossom spot for tourist is Yeouido Han River Park. But Yeouido park is always too packed during spring that makes it difficult to take beautiful pictures.
The alternative of Yeoido park is Seoul forest which has always been famous among the locals and these days this 'forest' is also well known among tourists. It is said that Seoul Forest has gone through a number of transition from hunting grounds for the kings to the first water treatment facility in Seoul, horse racing tracks, golf course, sports park and to the present eco-friendly city park.
There are a few parks in Seoul Forest but the most beautiful park with tons of blooming cherry blossom is called 'Eco Forest'. Once you enter the forest, you will see a map and you can find this park and follow the direction.
Head over to the overhead footbridge at Eco Forest and you will be mesmerised by the rows of cherry blossom trees below and view of yellow forsythia (flowers) blooming brilliantly at Eungbongsan Mountain ahead.
Seoul Forest 서울숲
> Address: 273, Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 서울특별시 성동구 뚝섬로 273 (성수동1가)
> Direction: Seoul Forest Station (Bundang line, exit 3), 5 mins walk. (click here for map)
> Operating Hours:
Seoul Forest is open year-round, 24 hours a day except for the following attractions:
Eco Forest (Deer Corral & Footbridge): 7:00 - 20:00 (till 21:00 in Jun-Aug).
Insect Garden: 10:00 - 17:00. Closed on Mondays.
Butterfly Garden (May-Oct): 10:00-17:00. Closed on Mondays.
Splash Fountain: May, Jun, Sep -14:00, 15:00, 16:00 / Jul, Aug - 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 / 30 mins.
Visitor Center: 10:00 -18:00 (till 17:00 in Dec-Feb).
> Admission Fee: FREE
> Website: www.seoulforest.or.kr