The King Cherry Blossom and Tulip Festival in South Korea is a must-see event for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery of Flower Park, where the vibrant colors of tulips and iconic cherry blossoms create a breathtaking display. Nearby, the historic Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a chance to explore its impressive architecture while enjoying the seasonal floral splendor. With so much to see and experience, it’s no wonder this festival continues to draw crowds each year.
Key Points
- Gakwonsa Temple features a beautiful Buddha statue and cherry blossoms that bloom annually, enhancing the temple’s beauty during the self-guided tour.
- Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a self-guided tour of its 5.7 km fortress walls, 4 main gates, and 48 bastions.
- The Flower Park showcases vibrant spring blossoms, including tulips, as part of the Spring Flower Festival, providing a colorful and immersive experience.
- The tour covers three main attractions: Gakwonsa Temple, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and Flower Park, with self-guided exploration at each location.
- The tour is priced at €70.80 per person, has a duration of 10 hours, and offers flexibility with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour is priced at €70.80 per person and lasts 10 hours.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking is flexible, as travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour departs from three locations in Seoul – Myeongdong, Hongik University, and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park stations.
Admission to attractions, an English and Chinese-speaking guide, and round-trip transfers from Seoul are included.
However, meals and beverages aren’t provided.
Itineraries may vary, but the main attractions – Gakwonsa Temple, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and the Flower Park – are always featured.
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Itinerary and Attractions
Starting from one of the three designated meeting points – Myeongdong Station Exit 2, Hongik University Station Exit 4, or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station Exit 10 – the tour takes guests on a self-guided exploration of the main attractions. These include:
| Attraction | Duration | Extra Fee |
|————|———-|———–|
| Gakwonsa Temple | 1.5 hours | ✓ |
| Suwon Hwaseong Fortress | 3.5 hours | ✓ |
| Flower Park | 1 hour | ✓ |
After the sightseeing, the tour ends with drop-offs at Hongik University Station Exit 4, Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station Exit 10, or Myeongdong Station Exit 2.
Gakwonsa Temple: Self-guided Tour
Visitors to the Gakwonsa Temple can explore this second-largest temple in South Korea during a self-guided tour lasting approximately 1.5 hours.
The temple is renowned for its beautiful Buddha statue and a variety of cherry blossoms that bloom annually. Guests can wander through the tranquil grounds, taking in the architectural details and serene atmosphere.
While an extra fee is required to visit the temple, it’s an opportunity to take in Korean culture and witness the natural beauty that attracts many visitors during the spring season.
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress: Self-guided Tour
After exploring the Gakwonsa Temple, the tour then takes visitors to the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its panoramic views and historical significance. Constructed in the late 18th century, the fortress offers a self-guided tour, allowing guests to enjoy its rich history and architecture.
| Fortress Features | Description |
| — | — |
| Walls | Extend for 5.7 km with 4 main gates and 48 bastions |
| Gates | Feature intricate designs and offer stunning views |
| Hwaseomun Gate | Largest and most impressive of the four main gates |
| Paldalmun Gate | Offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape |
More Great Tours NearbyFlower Park: Self-guided Tour
After exploring the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, the tour then takes visitors to the Flower Park, where they can enjoy a self-guided tour of the vibrant spring blossoms.
The park features a stunning display of tulips and other seasonal flowers, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape.
The park features a stunning display of tulips and other seasonal flowers, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape.
Visitors can wander through the park, taking in the sights and scents of the blooming flowers.
The self-guided tour allows them to explore the park at their own pace, giving them the freedom to fully enjoy the beauty of the spring flower festival.
Highlights of the Tour
The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the annual blooming of King cherry blossoms in Korea.
Guests can visit Gakwonsa Temple, the second-largest temple in South Korea, known for its beautiful Buddha statue and variety of cherry blossoms.
The tour also includes exploring Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its panoramic views and historical significance.
Plus, visitors can enjoy the Spring Flower Festival, featuring tulips and various spring blooms.
This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience of Korea’s natural beauty and cultural heritage during the vibrant spring season.
Inclusions
The tour includes admission to the featured attractions, along with the services of an English and Chinese-speaking tour guide.
Roundtrip transportation from Seoul is provided, allowing travelers to conveniently reach the destinations. However, meals and beverages aren’t included, giving participants the flexibility to explore local cuisine at their own pace.
The itinerary is subject to change, as the tour give you the best possible experience based on the conditions on the day.
Visitors can expect to fully enjoy the stunning sights of the King cherry blossoms and vibrant tulips during this comprehensive tour.
Meeting Points and Flexibility
Participants can choose from several meeting points when booking this tour. The tour departs from Hongik University Station Exit 4, Myeongdong Station Exit 3, or Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station.
Depending on the option selected, the itinerary and drop-off locations may vary. While the main attractions remain the same, the starting and ending points can differ.
This flexibility allows travelers to conveniently access the tour from various locations in Seoul. It’s important to double-check the meeting point details when making a reservation to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available on Weekends or Public Holidays?
The tour is available on weekends and public holidays. The itinerary and meeting points may vary based on the booked option, so customers should check the details when making their reservation.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Guests can choose to visit additional attractions or skip certain stops, subject to availability and guide confirmation. Flexibility is offered to personalize the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for all ages, though young children may need assistance or supervision during the self-guided portions of the tour.
What Is the Refund Policy if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If the tour is cancelled due to inclement weather, customers will receive a full refund regardless of the notice period.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Mentioned in the Itinerary?
The tour overview indicates there are extra fees for the self-guided tours at Gakwonsa Temple, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and Flower Park. Aside from these, the itinerary does not mention any additional costs or fees not included in the tour price.
The Sum Up
The King Cherry Blossom and Tulip Festival in South Korea offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Guests can enjoy the vibrant displays of cherry blossoms and tulips at Flower Park, explore the UNESCO-listed Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and discover the serene Gakwonsa Temple. This tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the region’s cultural and floral splendor.
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