If you’re coming through Seoul in spring, you may be in for a treat as this is when the cherry blossoms come into bloom! These beautiful flowers bloom for only a brief period in spring every year so naturally both locals and visitors are quite enthusiastic to see them. Here’s a roundup of some of the best places to catch them.

The Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is probably the best known cherry blossom festival within Seoul. The annual festival is now in its 12th year and will take place from April 4th through the 10th. Some 13 varieties of flowers including cherry blossoms, azaleas, forsythias, and more bloom in the walkways near the National Assembly Building in Yeouido. The cherry blossom trees lined up in full bloom just along the Han River makes it exceptionally beautiful. A number of events including art performances and activities are planned during the festival making it a fun event for all ages.

In eastern Seoul, the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is also a major event. Here the many cherry blossoms bloom along Seokchon Lake and with the flowers being reflected off the lake, it has an amplified effect. This festival also has a number of cultural and traditional events planned so stop by April 8th through the 10th for cherry blossom fun.

Namsan Park, home to the N Seoul Tower, is also an exceptional park to visit not only for the many cherry blossoms but its other spring flowers as well. In addition to the many walking trails, there are plenty of park benches and areas to rest. The views of the N Seoul Tower with cherry blossoms in between will make for some superb photo opportunities. Try the moderate hike up to the N Seoul Tower during this time for some unforgettable scenery.

There are also many mountains and hills scattered about with various flower trails. Achasan, or Mt. Acha, as well as Inwangsan are especially beautiful this time of the year for the many flowers. You can choose from the various hiking trails which range in difficulty for a way to enjoy Seoul’s spring flowers with a bit of exercise.

The Children’s Grand Park is popular with families and especially so this time of the year for the many cherry blossoms and spring flowers. In between walking on the flower-filled paths or playing in the fields, the park ground also houses a zoo, playgrounds, outdoor theater, and more. Not too far away at the Seoul Forest, various flower trails are found throughout the large park and ample cherry blossom trees should be seen. Be sure to drop by the butterfly garden here for a special treat!

Over in Dongdaemun-gu, near the streams of Jungnangcheon (중랑천) in Jangan-dong, special LED lights will be installed in 24 places along an 80 meter stretch so participants can enjoy the flowers during the day and night. Further east, the Sheraton Grand Walkerhill is putting on a special event in association with the blooming of the groves of cherry blossom trees that grows on Walker Hill street. Various pre-made cherry blossom lunch boxes will be offered for picnicking as well as wine and premium beers. On April 9, 10, 16, and 17, there will also be a special art market where various art pieces will be exhibited and sold. The profits from the art market’s entrance fees and sold art pieces will be donated to charity.

For more peaceful settings with generally smaller crowds try visiting the Samcheong Park near Samcheongdong or the Seoul National Cemetery. Both sites are generally less crowded, providing a more intimate time with the blossoms.