Cherry Blossoms in South Korea
Trip highlights
- Immerse yourself in Yeouido Spring Flower Festival
- Enjoy panoramic views aboard a river cruise
- Visit an 8th-century temple in Gyeongju
- Enjoy a scenic bike tour around Bomun Lake
- Marvel at nature at Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival
- Explore the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan
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Seoul's city skyline at sunset
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Bulguksa is a Buddhist temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Cherry blossom trees lining the shores of Bomun Lake
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The colourful Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips and safaris include:
- Exclusive luxury camps, lodges and hotels
- Curated experiences and private tours
- Skilled guides and local wildlife experts
- Decades of combined safari expertise from our team
- Full support from your local concierge
- Days 1-3 Seoul
- Days 3-4 Gyeongju
- Days 4-6 Busan
- Days 1-3 Seoul
- Days 3-4 Gyeongju
- Days 4-6 Busan
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
An introduction to Seoul
Seoul, South Korea’s sprawling capital, is a bustling metropolis that encapsulates the essence of East Asia, blending cutting-edge technology with deep-rooted traditions. With over half of the nation’s population residing in its metropolitan area, Seoul stands as a vibrant hub of culture and commerce. Bisected by the Han River into historic ‘Gangbuk’ in the north and modern ‘Gangnam’ in the south, Seoul comprises 25 districts, or gu, each akin to a small city in terms of size and population.
Exploring Seoul unveils a treasure trove of attractions, including five grand palaces, numerous temples and captivating museums. Food enthusiasts will relish in the abundance of street food, bustling markets and top-notch restaurants, while the city’s nightlife districts pulse with energy, making Seoul one of the liveliest urban scenes worldwide. Beyond the city limits, surrounding mountains offer breathtaking views and rewarding hiking trails.
Experience the vibrant Yeouido Spring Flower Festival
Celebrate the arrival of spring at the vibrant Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, one of Seoul’s most beloved seasonal events. Held annually on Yeouiseo-ro Road in mid-April, this festival transforms the area into a breathtaking sea of blossoms, attracting visitors from near and far to enjoy the natural beauty and festive atmosphere.
Stroll along the picturesque paths lined with thousands of cherry blossoms in full bloom, creating a stunning canopy of pink and white petals. The festival offers a variety of cultural performances, street food stalls and interactive activities.
Handpicked experiences
A visit to Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden
Step back in time with a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, the second royal villa constructed after the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace in 1405. As the principal residence for many Joseon dynasty kings, Changdeokgung stands as the most well-preserved of the five remaining royal palaces from this era.
Explore the palace grounds, which are divided into distinct areas: the public palace section, the royal family residence and the enchanting rear garden. The rear garden, a serene retreat for the kings, features a magnificent 300-year-old tree, a tranquil pond and a charming pavilion, offering a glimpse into the leisure and respite of Korean royalty.
A cruise down the Han River
Enjoy a scenic journey, soaking in stunning views of Seoul’s skyline. As you glide along the gentle waters of the Han River, you’ll pass by some of the city’s most famous sights, including the towering N Seoul Tower, the majestic 63 Building and the vibrant parks lining the riverbanks.
Where you could stay
Seoul
Overview
In Seoul’s exclusive Gangnam District, the Park Hyatt’s towering glass structure encloses a thoroughly modern and understatedly elegant city hotel. It has an unmistakably Korean soul, littered as it is with select Korean antiques and works by local artists.
There are a grand total of 185 guestrooms including 38 suites, the generous space maximised by the floor to ceiling windows and incredible city views in every room. Bathrooms don’t scrimp on size either with deep soaking baths and a rain shower.
A particular highlight of the hotel is the 24th floor infinity pool with expansive vistas best at sunset. There’s also a modern fitness studio and spa.
The Park Hyatt Seoul has three dining options; Cornerstone, an open kitchen restaurant specializing in grilled meats and seafood prepared in wood-burning ovens, the 24th floor Lounge’s Korean dishes and light snacks, and the Timber House, with its three bars (Sake/Soju/Sushi, Whisky and Cocktails) and exquisite Japanese cuisine.
→ Find out moreSeoul
Overview
Located in the heart of Seoul, the Four Seasons is a luxury five-star hotel perfectly positioned to allow guests to soak up the energy of this vibrant city.
The hotel decor is a mix of old and new. Its 317 rooms and suites combine classic Korean motifs with a clean, modern aesthetic. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure rooms are filled with natual light, and offer incredible views out over the city towards the mountains in the distance.
Eating and drinking at the hotel is a real treat, with seven restaurants and bars to choose from. Enjoy sushi and Japanese sharing plates at Kioku, Italian cuisine served straight from the open kitchen of Boccalino, Korean favourites at Maru, or Cantonese at the Michelin-starred Yu Yuan.
Indulge in a treatment in the spa, unwind in the Korean sauna, work out in the gym or take a dip in the indoor swimming pool. There is also a golf simulator where five 3D screens display courses from around the world and state-of-the-art technology means you can analyse swing and posture without having to step foot outside.
→ Find out moreSeoul
Overview
The Conrad Seoul is located on Yeouido Island in the heart of the Yeouido Business District. This is a comfortable, modern hotel with great facilities and is the perfect base from which to explore the city.
There are 434 rooms and suites, sleek and elegant in design, and with separate bath tubs and rain showers in the bathroom. Many offer wonderful views over the Han river and Seoul’s skyline.
Dining at the Conrad is a real treat. The signature restaurant, the 37 Grill & Bar is a sophisticated space located on the 37th floor offering 180-degree city and river vistas. Zest is the hotel’s all-day dining spot where you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, Asian wok dishes and Korean favourites. For a taste of Italy, head to Atrio decked out with designer lighting and elegant sculptures and featuring a traditional pizza oven and an antipasti counter. There is also a noodle bar for more casual dining as well as a couple of bars for a pre-dinner cockail.
The Conrad features a heated indoor swimming pool as well as a 24-hour gym and a spa where guests can unwind in the sauna and steam room before indulging in a treatment.
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One night in Gyeongju
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Gyeongju, once the capital of the illustrious Silla kingdom that reigned over much of the Korean Peninsula from 57 BC to 935 AD. At its zenith, Gyeongju stood as one of the largest cities on the planet, boasting an unparalleled cultural legacy. Dubbed as ‘the museum without walls’, the city is adorned with a myriad of historic temples, tombs, pagodas and statues. Among the remarkable remnants are the 8th-century Bulguksa Temple and the nearby Seokguram Grotto, home to some of the finest Buddhist sculptures globally. Explore the earthen mound tombs nestled in Tumuli Park, along with a multitude of meticulously preserved fortresses and palaces, all encapsulating the grandeur of Silla’s glorious past.
Top highlights
Temple
Tomb
Palace
Lake
Palace
Lake
A tour of Bulguksa Temple
Explore Bulguksa, an 8th-century Buddhist temple complex on Mount Toham, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing South Korea’s cherished national treasures.
The grounds, symbolising Buddha’s realm, feature three main areas – Birojeon, Daeungjeon and Geungnakjeon –surrounded by exquisite stone terraces, bridges and pagodas showcasing ancient masonry skills.
Visiting Daereungwon Tomb Complex
Explore Gyeongju’s rich history with a tour of the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, showcasing ancient burial mounds like the famous Cheonmachong. Unearthed in 1973, it contained over 11,500 artifacts, including a lacquered wooden coffin adorned with burial goods.
Exploring Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
Enjoy a private guided tour of Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, once the secondary palace for the crown prince and a prestigious banquet venue for important national events and dignitaries.
Despite its abandonment after the fall of the Silla dynasty, this historical site regained its prominence when a pottery fragment bearing the inscription “Wolji,” meaning “a pond that reflects the moon,” was unearthed in the 1980s.
This discovery led to the site’s renaming as Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, restoring its rightful place as a cherished cultural treasure.
A bike tour around Bomun Lake
In Gyeongju, nature paints with a generous hand, adorning the landscape with an abundance of cherry blossoms that rival any other destination. As spring unfurls its vibrant palette, the entire cityscape blushes pink, enveloping visitors in a whimsical wonderland.
At Bomun Lake, the magic intensifies as the cerulean waters mirror the splendor above, creating a kaleidoscope of hues.
Where you could stay
Gyeongju
Overview
Hilton Gyeongju is located by Lake Bomun, surrounded by mountains but just 20 minutes from downtown.
There are 330 rooms and suites, spacious and bright with large windows and marble bathrooms. Most come with a balcony overlooking the lake.
Guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to eating and drinking with six restaurants and bars on site. Enjoy Italian cuisine at Da Vinci which overlooks the hotel gardens, sushi and Japanese cuisine at Genji, or Cantonese and Sichuan at Silkroad. There is also a cocktail lounge on the 9th floor, a lobby lounge and a poolside bar.
When you’re not out exploring, take some time to enjoy the fitness room, swimming pool, jogging track and bikes that are available for guests to use.
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Two nights exploring Busan
With two nights to explore, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Busan, South Korea’s second-most populous city and the bustling economic and cultural hub of southeastern Korea. Marvel at the juxtaposition of gleaming high-rises nestled between lush green mountains and serene beaches, with elegant bridges spanning across the sea. Experience the city’s dynamic restaurant and nightlife scene, bustling fish markets, and picturesque hiking trails, offering a fascinating glimpse into the diverse facets of modern Korean life.
Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival
Step into a realm of natural wonder at the Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival, where nature unveils its most breathtaking display in the heart of Jinhae. As the season of renewal unfolds, the streets of this coastal town transform into a symphony of pink hues. Amidst the fragrant blooms, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a tapestry of cultural delights, from traditional performances to tantaliSing street food offerings.
Gamcheon Culture Village
With its brightly colored houses and artistic flourishes, Gamcheon offers a delightful immersion into local life.
Explore its winding alleys adorned with vibrant murals and sculptures, each telling a story of the village’s rich cultural heritage.
Wander through this vibrant maze to discover small museums, art shops, cozy tea rooms and engaging workshops, all showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of the local residents.
Where you could stay
Busan
Overview
Park Hyatt Busan is located in the heart of the city’s upmarket shopping and beach district and has everything you need for a luxurious, five-star stay.
The hotel is deigned to look like a wave, fitting given its position on the tip of the Korean Peninsula. Inside are 269 rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out over the ocean and the Gwangan Bridge. Blonde wood and a neutral colour scheme create a light and calm space.
The Dining Room is the hotel’s grill and sushi restaurant, while the Living Room offers modern French cuisine. There is also a patisserie offering a selection of delicious sweet treats, as well as a lounge on the 30th floor where you can drink in the incredible cityscape views.
For unwinding, there is an indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa, fitness room and golf simulator.
→ Find out more
My wife and I used Jacada this summer to organize our two-week trip to South Korea and Japan. We had never previously used an agency to arrange our travel but did so both to save time and to benefit from their expertise, because we wanted assistance arranging for hotels, destinations, inter-country travel, guides, etc. We also intended to meet --…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
