Jinhae is one of the most famous destinations in South Korea for cherry blossom viewing, attracting thousands of visitors each spring. Located in Changwon, Jinhae hosts the annual Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, the largest cherry blossom festival in South Korea, typically held in early April. This picturesque coastal town transforms into a floral paradise, with delicate pink blossoms lining the streets, parks, and waterways. There are several iconic spots to admire the sakura including Yeojwacheon Stream, Gyeonghwa Station, Jinhae Naval Academy and Jangboksan Sculpture Park, a lesser-known but breathtaking hillside spot.
Check this Jinhae cherry blossoms 2025 guide; keep reading to get more information about best places to see sakura, how to get to Jinhae from Busan and Seoul, best day tours to join, hotels to stay nearby and other useful information.
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Forecast 2025
The best time to visit Jinhae to see cherry blossoms is typically from late March to early April, with peak bloom usually occurring around April 1st to April 10th. The exact timing varies slightly each year depending on weather conditions, such as temperature and rainfall.
For the most accurate bloom period, check cherry blossom forecasts closer to your travel date. You can also rely on cherry blossom forecast provided by Klook (see the picture below).
Be sure to check the exact dates and schedule of events beforehand, as they may vary slightly from year to year. You can also refer to the data provided on the official weather forecast website. If you would like to know where to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, check our guide.
Best Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Day Tours 2025
Jinhae is one of the most beautiful cherry blossom destinations in South Korea, and a guided day tour is the best way to experience its top sights without worrying about transportation.
Jihnae Cherry Blossom Day Tour from Busan/Seoul – this tour lasts for about 8-10 hours, with average price per person 40-60 USD. This popular tourtakes visitors to Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station, the most famous cherry blossom spots in Jinhae. You’ll also have free time to explore the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, where you can enjoy street food and cultural performances. It is a perfect option for those staying in Busan who want a hassle-free, guided experience with transportation included.
There are plenty of day trip options from Seoul to Jinhae to enjoy sakura blooming. These tours typically include round-trip transportation and visits to key cherry blossom viewing spots in Jinhae. It’s advisable to book in advance due to the popularity of the festival. Find the best options on Klook.
Best Spots in Jinhae to See Cherry Blossom
There are several places where you can enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms in Jinhae. You can consider visiting some of them, but keep in mind that the festival is a popular tourist attraction, so accommodations and transportation may be in high demand during this time.
Yeojwacheon Stream
Yeojwacheon Stream is one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Jinhae, transforming into a breathtaking tunnel of pink petals during the annual Jinhae Gunhangje Festival. Lined with thousands of cherry trees, the stream creates a dreamy atmosphere, especially when the blossoms reflect on the water.
Visitors can stroll along the picturesque walkways and cross the iconic Romance Bridge, which became popular due to its appearance in a Korean drama. At night, the illuminated cherry blossoms add a magical touch, making it a perfect spot for photography.
For those looking to stay nearby, Louis Boutique Hotel offers modern accommodations within walking distance. Jinhae InterCity Hotel is another excellent choice, providing easy access to major attractions. French Code Hotel is also conveniently located, ensuring visitors can enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms without hassle.
Gyeonghwa Station
Gyeonghwa Station in Jinhae is a historic train station that has become famous for its cherry blossoms. It is one of the most iconic cherry blossom viewing spots in South Korea and attracts large numbers of visitors during the cherry blossom season.
The station itself is no longer in active use for regular train services, it is famous for its cherry blossom tunnel, where pink petals form a breathtaking canopy over the railway tracks.
One of the main reasons visitors come to Gyeonghwa Station is to capture stunning photographs. Whether posing under the blossoms, standing along the railway tracks, or capturing the petals falling like pink snow, every corner of this location is Instagram-worthy.
During the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, many street vendors set up stalls near the station, offering delicious local food like hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and seafood dishes.
Jehwangsan Park
Jehwangsan Park is one of Jinhae’s most scenic cherry blossom spots, offering panoramic views of the entire city covered in soft pink petals. Located on Jehwangsan Mountain, the park is famous for the Jinhae Tower, which provides a breathtaking vantage point to admire the cherry blossoms from above.
Visitors can climb the 365-step staircase, symbolizing a year’s journey to enjoy the views. Those who reach the top of Jehwangsan Mountain are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Jinhae, the nearby coastline, and the surrounding mountains.
During the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, the park becomes a peaceful yet stunning destination, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying the vibrant cherry blossom scenery. Aside from its natural beauty, the park also features historical exhibits and walking trails, making it a great spot for both sightseeing and relaxation.
Jinhae Naval Academy is typically closed to the public because it serves as an active military training institution for the Republic of Korea Navy. The academy plays a crucial role in training naval officers, conducting research, and maintaining national security. Due to its strategic and restricted nature, public access is usually not permitted, ensuring the safety and confidentiality of military operations.
However, during the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, held annually from late March to early April, the academy temporarily opens its gates to allow visitors to experience its stunning cherry blossom scenery. This limited access gives tourists a rare opportunity to explore the campus, walk along cherry tree-lined paths, and visit attractions like the Admiral Yi Sun-sin statue and the Naval Museum.
The special opening during the festival makes Jinhae Naval Academy one of the most exclusive and sought-after cherry blossom viewing locations in South Korea.
How to Go to Jinhae Cherry Blossoms Festival from Busan
Jinhae becomes very popular destination for one-day trip from Busan during cherry blossom season. Depending on your budget and personal preferences, there are several transportation options to reach Jinhae from Busan.
Join Day Trip
This is the most convenient option, as it inlcudes round-trip transfers and visits to the most popular places where you can see cherry blossoms in Jinhae. For example, on Klook you can find several options to choose from for a really great experience. You can check popular Jinhae sakura spots not only during the day, but also at night. Click here to find more details and make your booking.
By Bus
If you’re on a budget, you can travel to Jinhae by bus from Busan Sasang Bus Terminal. Buses run regularly between the two cities and the journey typically takes around 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. Please note that you have to make several transfers along the way. At Jinhae you’ll arrive at Jinhae Intercity Bus Terminal, within walking distance of festival sites, the average cost of the trip is 5000 – 6000 KRW.
Private Transfer
If you prefer more flexibility in your travel schedule and looking for door-to-door service you can consider private transfer as the best option. It works perfectly for those traveling in groups, check the terms and prices here.
How to Go to Jinhae from Seoul
By KTX Train + Bus
Traveling from Seoul to Jinhae by KTX + Bus is the fastest and most comfortable way. Take the KTX train from Seoul Station to Changwon Station (not Changwon Jungang Station). Trip duration is about 3-4 hours, trains run several times a day.
The cost of such a trip is 50000 – 60000 KRW. It’s better to book your KTX tickets in advance as seats fill up quickly during cherry blossom season, check the prices and buy tickets here.
At Changwon Bus Stop Station take a bus 751 or 760 that will take you directly to Jinhae Intercity Bus Terminal. Travel time is 40-50 minutes, ticket price is 2000 – 3000 KRW. If unsure, ask locals or check with the bus driver before boarding.
You can also opt for a taxi if you would like to have a hassle-free ride. Taxi price is 20000 – 30000 KRW. Show the driver “진해 군항제” (Jinhae Gunhangje) or “진해 중앙시장” (Jinhae Central Market) if heading to the festival area.
Express Bus
If you don’t mind a longer trip and budget-conscious you can choose express bus, that runs multiple times daily, but it’s recommended to book early to secure a seat during peak season. The cost of such a trip is around 30000 – 35000 KRW, trip duration is 4-5 hours depending on traffic.
To board go to Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal (Nambu Terminal Station, Line 3, Exit 5), the bus will arrive to Jinhae Intercity Bus Terminal.
Day tour from Seoul
If you want to make your trip the most comfortable, check the day trip options offered by Klook. Along with the transportation, you’ll also visit the most popular spots in Jinhae for cherry blossoms. Find more details and reserve your spot here.
