When did our love affair with cherry blossoms begin? I think, it would have to be sometime after visiting Japan — post koyo (autumn leaves). Ever since, we’ve desperately wanted to revisit Japan during sakura (cherry blossoms). Things never really worked out. Oddly enough, we kept dreaming and hoping — without truly believing. And here’s the thing about travel, every now and then, the universe will conspire to give you a narrow window of opportunity — to experience a surreal moment. And what do you have to do? Make every moment count.
When we came to know that Basil’s work trip to Seoul, would coincide with beotkkot (cherry blossoms), we knew this was our narrow window of opportunity. As with every trip, we started reading blogs and sites, matching predicted dates with listed parks, for blossom sightings. Strangely, we saw our first bloom upon exiting the subway. So, no matter what they (or we) say — if you’re there at the right time — there’s no such thing as the right place.
The Local Park
On one of his earlier trips, Basil discovered a local park (we have yet to figure out its name) that probably was a site of an abandoned railway track. This 2 km stretch was lined with powdered trees on either side. There are few experiences which are find hard to forget. Walking under a canopy of cherry blossom trees — will definitely be one of them.
The predicted date for full blooms was around April 7. We were a couple of days early. Some of the buds had yet to bloom. Nonetheless, they looked heavenly .
Yeouido Park
What do I love about Seoul? There will always be some fantastic sculpture or art installation in front of a towering building. An excellent way to compensate for the gargantuan building behind, I suppose. So, it’s not about where you go as much as what you will see along the way. And if you find yourself heading towards Yeouido Park, ‘Big Fish’ will be hard to ignore.
Basil’s colleague suggested we visit Yeouido Park. There’s lots to see and do in the park’s sprawling grounds. We could barely cover a quarter of it. The park is also one of the most popular places for cherry blossom sightings. We were a week early and many of the trees were in the nascent stages of bloom.
On a weekend, Yeouido Park gets pretty crowded with couples, families, and groups of friends. There are a few quiet spots in the woods. Only true nature lovers made it here. Noisy magpies flew around, whilst other birds were content with eating or dreaming. I wouldn’t blame them. It was a magical place to be in.
We were lucky to spot few trees in full bloom. I could imagine how beautiful it would look when all the flowers would bloom.
Yeouido Hangang Park
We have a firm favourite in almost every place we visit. Especially, if we aren’t travelling around and trying to sample local life. Yeouido Hangang Park is our weekend getaway spot in Seoul. If you’ve got nothing to do — it’s perfectly alright to do just that here.
After spending a day in the park, we joined the rest of the crowd on the street that runs parallel. There was a lot happening here. And each one of our senses was fighting for our attention. Cherry blossoms above, tantalizing street food below, and the cold wet rain touching our faces — it was hard to ignore any of it .
Occasionally, a strong gust of wind would blow and create a downpour of cherry blossom petal rain. Such events were met with a spike in frenzied clicking. I did wish it was quieter with fewer people and lesser noise. The beauty of these places is best enjoyed in solitude.
Hyochang Park
The blossom frenzy lasted for a period of 3 days. Basil had a holiday for the local elections and we decided to explore a new park. Hyochang Park used to be an erstwhile burial ground for the royal family. It was modified into a garden during Japanese invasion. Currently, it is the final resting place of Korean martyrs and leaders. The park is also a recreational facility for locals. We walked around, Basil tried an exercise machine, watched the last few petals of blossoms lie on the ground, and admired the fresh sprouts of green.
twobrownfeet 
They are stunning!! So beautiful. I would love to be able to visit Japan at the right time to see that 🙂
Yes! It was stunning!! I do hope we can visit Japan during sakura. Kyoto will looks fantastic. I’m sure. 🙂 But, I’m happy to have seen the blossoms in Seoul as well. 🙂
These photos are beautiful! I would love to visit japan and see the cherry blossoms! You are a really talented photgrapher
Thank you! Basil, my husband, has clicked these photographs. Looks like his efforts have paid off. And I do wish I could experience cherry blossoms in Japan – especially Kyoto. 🙂
What absolutely stunning photos. I could feel myself totally immersed in those gorgeous cherry blossoms. No wonder you love it so much, what a treat for the senses. Thanks for sharing with us.
Thank you, Miriam. Basil did a splendid job in capturing those blooms. I found it difficult to shortlist the best of the lot. 🙂 We loved the whole experience! It’s back to the everyday now.
At least you have those glorious photos to remind you of those special moments. 🙂
Very rightly put! 🙂 Gives me reason to keep blogging. Hehe!
Beautiful blooming nature! A perfect place to relax and enjoy nature! Pictures are super!
Thank you, Ann! 🙂 I’d have to agree to every word you say. It was a wonderful experience. 🙂
Each park has its own uniqueness. Lucky you and Basil to be there during the cherry blossoms season. Beautiful photos and thanks for sharing the beauty of the season.
Thank you, Helen! 🙂 Blossoms were everywhere, including Seoul Wall. We’re happy to have seen all of it!
Absolutely gorgeous – your photos are really lovely…I don’t know anyone that doesn’t love the cherry or apple blossoms and know that Kyoto is the same – thousands and thousands of people during the cherry blossom festival…but of course worth visiting as they are striking. You know through my post I have been to Kyoto and posted on my visit but whilst you have not been there, your experience in Seoul is as lovely as the blossoms are beautiful there too.
Basil was incredibly happy with his shots, Sue! A big thank you from him. 🙂 Probably, I’m asking for too much. We visited Kyoto (Nara & Tokyo) in autumn and wanted to see how the temples fare in spring. Our Japanese friends can’t get enough of Sakura. One might think they’d get bored. But, every year, they will post a hundred snaps on social networking sites! My Korean friend banned me from sending her any blossom snaps, since she’s away. 🙂 I’ve got a better understanding of their ‘extreme’ reactions, now.
I would love Kyoto in Autumn too.
🙂
The blossoms must make such built up areas more relaxing and bring an element of ease to busy cities. Love seeing greenery in town.
I’d have to agree! I prefer mountains to cities. But, Seoul has many green spaces. And like you rightly pointed, the trees add a hint of green to the towers of grey. 🙂
Excellent photos
Thanks! 🙂
You really arrived at the PERFECT time. 🙂
Hehe! I know! 🙂
What a glorious array of Cherry Blossoms. The reflective photo is a masterpiece. And I love the birds too. I haven’t seen a Cherry Blossom since 2012 and I miss them dearly so it is wonderful to see them here 🌸🌸🌸
Thank you, Lisa! Basil is going to be truly happy to receive such wonderful feedback! Have a good week! 🙂
Beautiful!
Thanks, Kat! 🙂
fascinating… I just love, love, love the photos with the crowds of people amongst those beautiful blossoming trees… there is this contrast between the quiet beauty and serenity of the trees and the chaos of the crowds… the blossoms look even more beautiful this way 🙂 that petal in your hand is so delicate… lovely post!!
You’ve made our day, Alex! Your comments have always been so encouraging and positive. And Basil will truly be happy to receive words of praise from you! Your photography is exceptional! We’re hooked to your work!