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As winter fades, the Orient awakens with vivid cherry blossoms, misty lakes, and centuries-old traditions. Spring is the perfect season to explore these enchanting destinations, where ancient temples, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes create an unforgettable travel experience.
From the sakura-lined streets of Kyoto to the tea-covered hills of Hangzhou, each location offers its own unique charm. Cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, soak in Taipei’s steaming hot springs, or stroll under the blossoming trees of Seoul’s royal palaces—wherever you go, spring’s magic awaits.
Ready to discover the best oriental destinations to visit this season? Let’s dive in! 🌸✈️
Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a city where history and nature blend seamlessly. With its centuries-old temples, traditional tea houses, and iconic geishas gracefully strolling the streets, Kyoto feels like stepping into a bygone era. While Kyoto is stunning year-round, spring elevates its beauty to an ethereal level. As cherry blossoms (sakura) paint the city in shades of pink and white, Kyoto becomes one of the most magical places on Earth.
Spring in Kyoto is more than just a season—it’s a celebration of life, renewal, and fleeting beauty. The concept of mono-no-aware (the bittersweet appreciation of impermanence) is deeply tied to cherry blossom season, making a visit here not just scenic, but deeply cultural.
One of the most cherished traditions in Japan is hanami, or flower viewing. Families, couples, and friends gather in parks and temple gardens, laying down picnic blankets beneath the sakura trees. They enjoy sake, seasonal delicacies, and the breathtaking sight of delicate petals fluttering down like pink snow.
For an unforgettable hanami experience, head to Maruyama Park in the evening. This famous park is home to a magnificent shidare-zakura (weeping cherry tree), which is illuminated at night, casting an almost surreal glow. The combination of soft pink blossoms and glowing lanterns creates an enchanting atmosphere.
Tucked away in the foothills of Higashiyama, the Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no Michi) is a 2-kilometer stone walkway lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Named after Nishida Kitaro, a Kyoto University professor who walked this path daily while meditating, this scenic route offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
In early April, the trees form a stunning pink canopy, with petals gently floating in the canal beside the path. Small cafés, charming teahouses, and artisan shops add to the picturesque setting. If you’re looking for a peaceful and reflective hanami experience, this is the place to be.
Perched on a hillside, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. Its massive wooden stage, supported by 13-meter-high pillars, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Kyoto’s cherry blossom-filled landscape.
Spring at Kiyomizu-dera is particularly magical because of the contrast between the ancient wooden structure and the sea of pink blossoms below. As you wander through the temple grounds, don’t forget to visit the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink from three different streams, each believed to grant wisdom, health, or success.
While most visitors flock to Kyoto’s main cherry blossom spots, the Heian Shrine Garden remains a hidden gem. This sprawling garden, surrounding a vermillion-red torii gate, is home to stunning weeping cherry trees (shidare-zakura).
Unlike the common Yoshino cherry trees, these weeping sakura bloom slightly later and have a cascading, almost fairytale-like appearance. The contrast of soft pink blossoms against the bright red shrine creates a mesmerizing sight that feels straight out of a painting.
Visiting Kyoto in spring is like stepping into a painting—where ancient temples, vibrant festivals, and delicate cherry blossoms create a harmonious masterpiece. Whether you’re admiring the view from Kiyomizu-dera, enjoying a hanami picnic under Kyoto’s famous sakura, or witnessing the elegance of a geisha performance, every moment here feels like a scene from a timeless story.
🌸 Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit Kyoto in spring, book your accommodations and transport early! Cherry blossom season attracts travelers from all over the world, and hotels can sell out months in advance.
Seoul, the dynamic capital of South Korea, is a city where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers, where K-pop culture coexists with centuries-old traditions. While Seoul is vibrant year-round, spring transforms the city into a breathtaking floral wonderland.
From cherry blossoms lining its parks and streets to royal palaces bathed in soft pink hues, Seoul in spring is both visually stunning and culturally enriching. Festivals take over the city, streets are buzzing with excitement, and seasonal delicacies like strawberry bingsu (shaved ice dessert) make this season even sweeter.
If you’re looking for a mix of urban energy and serene beauty, spring is the best time to visit Seoul!
The ultimate Seoul spring experience is cherry blossom viewing at Yeouido Park, home to the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival—one of the most famous spring events in South Korea.
Picture this: Over 1,800 cherry blossom trees form a pastel pink tunnel along Yeouiseo-ro Street, creating the perfect setting for a romantic stroll. Street performers, musicians, and food vendors line the pathways, adding to the lively atmosphere.
🌸 Must-do: Visit the park at sunset, when the golden light makes the petals glow, and stay until nightfall to see the illuminated trees, which create an almost magical ambiance.
🌸 Best photo spot: The riverside walking path along the Han River, where you can capture the blossoms reflected in the water.
🌸 Pro tip: Arrive early in the morning if you want a peaceful, crowd-free experience.
Spring is the best season to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic royal palace in Seoul. Built in 1395, this grand palace served as the main seat of the Joseon Dynasty and is surrounded by scenic gardens and traditional Korean architecture.
The cherry trees in the palace courtyards bloom beautifully, creating a majestic contrast against the red and green palace rooftops. The atmosphere is peaceful, making it an excellent place to soak in Korean history while admiring nature’s beauty.
🌸 Best experience:
Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) from a nearby shop and explore the palace grounds like royalty. Wearing a hanbok even grants you free entry to the palace!
🌸 Bonus highlight:
Catch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, a fascinating reenactment of the traditional military rituals from the Joseon era.
If you want a less touristy but equally stunning cherry blossom destination, head to Seokchon Lake. This serene lake is surrounded by 1,000+ cherry trees, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
What makes this lake truly special is the way its calm waters reflect the blooming cherry blossoms, creating a breathtaking, postcard-perfect pink panorama. The scene is made even more striking by the presence of the Lotte World Tower, South Korea’s tallest skyscraper, which rises dramatically in the background, offering a stunning contrast between nature’s delicate beauty and modern architectural grandeur.
Adding to the charm of the season, the annual Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival brings the area to life with vibrant cultural events. Visitors can enjoy live street performances, explore a variety of food trucks serving local delicacies, and immerse themselves in traditional and contemporary festivities.
🌸 Best time to visit: Early April, when the petals are at their fullest bloom.
Standing at Namsan Mountain’s peak, Namsan Seoul Tower offers the best panoramic view of Seoul, especially during cherry blossom season.
The Namsan Park Cherry Blossom Trail leads to the tower, with pink cherry trees arching over the stone pathways. The combination of city views and nature makes this an unbeatable spring experience.
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the season is by taking a cable car ride to the summit of the hill, where breathtaking panoramic views of the cherry blossoms unfold beneath you. The aerial perspective offers a stunning way to appreciate the vibrant pink hues that blanket the landscape.
For a romantic and memorable moment, visiting the Love Locks Fence is a must. Here, couples leave padlocks as a symbol of their eternal love, creating a heartwarming display of devotion against the scenic backdrop.
To complete the experience, a sky-high meal at N Grill offers an unforgettable dining experience. This rooftop restaurant provides panoramic views of the city, allowing guests to savor gourmet cuisine while taking in the mesmerizing scenery from above.
Seoul in spring is a vibrant mix of tradition and modernity, where cherry blossoms line ancient palaces, and bustling city streets transform into pink wonderlands. Whether you're indulging in strawberry desserts, dressing in a hanbok, or strolling under cherry trees along the Han River, spring in Seoul is an experience you’ll never forget.
🌸 Pro Tip: Cherry blossom season is short (lasting about one to two weeks), so check the forecast in advance and plan your trip accordingly!
Taipei, the bustling capital of Taiwan, is a city where ancient traditions meet modern innovation. With its towering skyscrapers, vibrant night markets, and lush natural landscapes, Taipei is a dream destination for travelers seeking a mix of urban excitement and scenic beauty.
While Taipei is a year-round travel hotspot, spring (March–May) is the perfect time to visit. The weather is cool and pleasant, the city’s parks and mountains burst into bloom, and the streets come alive with cultural festivals and seasonal delicacies. Whether you’re hiking through a flower-filled national park, relaxing in a natural hot spring, or indulging in Taiwan’s famous street food, Taipei in spring is pure magic.
One of Taipei's most memorable spring experiences is visiting Yangmingshan National Park, where the hillsides burst into a breathtaking display of camellias, azaleas, cherry blossoms, and calla lilies. Just a short 40-minute drive from the city center, this national park transforms into a paradise for nature lovers, offering a stunning landscape that feels like a dream come to life.
Spring is the perfect time to visit, as the cherry blossoms reach full bloom between February and March, turning the park into a rosy wonderland. The Calla Lily Season, which lasts from March to May in the charming village of Zhuzihu, is another highlight. Here, visitors can walk through magnificent white calla lily fields and even pick their own flowers. The mild spring weather makes it an ideal season for hiking, sightseeing, and picnicking, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of nature without the intense heat of summer.
There are plenty of activities to experience in Yangmingshan during spring. Taking a leisurely stroll through the cherry blossom gardens offers a serene and picturesque escape from the city. The Zhuzihu Calla Lily Fields provide a magical sight, with endless rows of elegant white lilies stretching as far as the eye can see. For those who enjoy adventure, a hike to Xiaoyoukeng reveals a dramatic volcanic landscape, where steaming sulfur vents create a unique and otherworldly atmosphere. After a day of exploration, unwinding in Beitou Thermal Resort, a famous hot spring destination located near the park, is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate.
Whether you're seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, or a peaceful retreat, Yangmingshan National Park in spring offers an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant colors, fresh air, and breathtaking scenery.
🌸 Pro Tip: The Yangmingshan Flower Festival (February–April) features flower exhibitions, cultural performances, and night-time cherry blossom illuminations—don’t miss it!
One of Taipei’s most famous landmarks, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, is an architectural masterpiece surrounded by beautiful gardens. In spring, the plaza’s cherry blossom trees and azaleas burst into full bloom, making it one of the most scenic spots in the city.
The contrast between the pink cherry blossoms, bright blue-tiled rooftops, and white marble architecture creates a breathtaking scene, perfect for photographers.
🌸 Best experience:
Walk through the Liberty Square Gardens, where you can see blooming flower beds, koi ponds, and the grand memorial arch.
🌸 Don’t miss:
The Changing of the Guard Ceremony, held every hour, is a spectacular display of precision and discipline by Taipei’s honor guards.
Spring in Taipei is tea season, and nowhere is it enjoyed more beautifully than in Maokong, a postcard village in a rolling range of hills famous for tea farms and breathtaking panoramas.
The cool spring temperatures and lush tea farms make for a refreshing escape from city life. This is also the perfect time to take part in tea-picking and tasting sessions, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s renowned High Mountain Oolong Tea.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Maokong in spring. A ride on the Maokong Gondola provides a stunning aerial view of the tea plantations, making for a truly scenic experience. For tea enthusiasts, a visit to one of the traditional tea houses is a must—sipping on freshly brewed tea while watching the sun set over Taipei 101 is an unforgettable sight. Food lovers will also appreciate the variety of tea-infused treats available, from delicate tea-flavored mochi to rich and creamy tea ice cream.
🌸 Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon so you can experience both daytime tea fields and a sunset view over Taipei.
Spring is an ideal time to indulge in one of Taipei's most famous hot springs, and Beitou, located at the foot of Yangmingshan, is a perfect site for a steam-filled, rejuvenating soak.
The cool, refreshing environment enhances the experience, making the warm, mineral-rich waters feel even more soothing and therapeutic. Adding to the charm, cherry blossoms bloom around the hot spring resorts, creating a peaceful, Zen-like atmosphere that makes relaxation even more enjoyable.
Beitou offers a variety of hot spring experiences to suit every preference. The Beitou Public Hot Springs provide a budget-friendly, outdoor bathing option, perfect for those looking for a traditional and social hot spring experience. For a more luxurious retreat, Villa 32 and Grand View Resort offer private hot springs with healing spa treatments and breathtaking garden views, allowing guests to fully unwind in an elegant setting. Nature lovers will also appreciate Thermal Valley, often referred to as Hell Valley—a magical, steaming hot spring lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering a surreal and mesmerizing sight.
🌸 Pro Tip: After your soak, visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, a historic Japanese-era bathhouse.
Spring is the perfect time to explore Taipei’s natural beauty, cultural wonders, and culinary delights. Whether you’re walking under cherry blossoms in Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, soaking in Beitou’s healing hot springs, or sipping freshly brewed oolong tea in Maokong, Taipei in spring is a destination that nourishes the soul.
🌸 Pro Tip: Spring weather in Taipei can be unpredictable—bring a light jacket and an umbrella, as sudden drizzles are common.
Known as “Heaven on Earth,” Hangzhou is one of China’s most picturesque cities, celebrated for its stunning West Lake, ancient pagodas, lush tea plantations, and rich cultural history. Spring (March–May) is the best season to visit, when the city is bathed in cherry blossoms, peach flowers, and misty morning reflections over West Lake.
A trip to Hangzhou in spring is a feast for the senses—from the sight of pink blossoms lining tranquil waters to the fragrance of freshly harvested Longjing tea drifting through the air. If you're looking for a poetic and peaceful escape, this is the place to be.
Spring in Hangzhou is defined by West Lake (Xī Hú), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has inspired poets, artists, and emperors for centuries. Walking along its willow-lined paths, cruising on a wooden boat, or admiring its classical gardens feels like stepping into a Chinese watercolor painting.
Spring is a breathtaking time to visit West Lake, as cherry blossoms, peach blossoms, and willows surround the lake, creating a dreamlike pink-green atmosphere. This season brings out the most magical side of the lake’s fabled Ten Scenes of West Lake, where nature and history blend seamlessly. The air is filled with the delicate aroma of lotus flowers and freshly harvested tea leaves, adding to the enchanting ambiance.
One of the best ways to experience West Lake in spring is by taking a boat trip at sunset, when a gentle mist rises over the water, casting an ethereal glow. Strolling or biking along the Su Causeway is another unforgettable experience, as the path is lined with vibrant peach and cherry blossoms, making for a scenic and serene journey. For a panoramic view of West Lake’s stunning spring landscape, a visit to Leifeng Pagoda is a must. From its heights, visitors can take in the full beauty of the lake, framed by the colors and scents of the season.
🌸 Best photo spot:
The iconic Broken Bridge (Duanqiao), where snow-like cherry blossom petals float on the water, creating a romantic and legendary scene.
Hangzhou is home to Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea, one of China’s most famous green teas, and spring is the prime season for its harvest.
March to early April marks the first flush, when the most delicate and freshly sprouted tea leaves are harvested. During this season, the rolling tea hills of Meijiawu Village turn verdant and lush, creating a peaceful rural retreat away from the bustle of city life.
One of the best ways to experience Longjing Tea Village is by joining a tea-picking tour, where visitors can learn firsthand how local farmers carefully hand-harvest the finest tea leaves. Another fascinating experience is watching the traditional tea-roasting process, where the freshly picked leaves are skillfully pan-fried in a wok to enhance their flavor. To complete the visit, a tea-tasting session at a traditional teahouse offers the perfect opportunity to savor the rich, aromatic flavors of Longjing tea while overlooking the picturesque plantations.
🌸 Bonus Tip: Visit the China National Tea Museum to explore Hangzhou’s deep tea culture and history.
Nestled among misty green hills, Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul’s Retreat) is one of China’s most important Buddhist temples, offering a peaceful spring escape.
Spring is a magical time to visit the temple, as its courtyards come alive with blooming peach blossoms, magnolias, and willows, creating a stunning display of color and fragrance. The nearby Feilai Feng grottoes, home to over 300 Buddhist rock carvings, take on an even more mystical aura when shrouded in the soft mist of spring, enhancing the spiritual and historical significance of the site.
One of the most serene experiences is walking through the bamboo forest leading up to the temple. The path is quiet and peaceful, filled with the gentle rustling of leaves and the soothing sounds of birdsong. For a truly reflective moment, lighting an incense stick and sitting in stillness allows visitors to fully absorb the temple’s calm and tranquil atmosphere, making for a deeply spiritual and meditative experience.
🌸 Bonus Tip: Stop by the vegetarian restaurant inside the temple for a meal prepared by Buddhist monks.
For a glimpse of Hangzhou’s rich past, take a springtime stroll down Qinghefang Ancient Street, a lively pedestrian street lined with Ming and Qing dynasty-era buildings.
During spring, the street comes alive with freshly placed flowers, enhancing its idyllic and nostalgic charm. The vibrant blooms create a picturesque setting, making every corner feel like a scene from a classic painting. Adding to the lively atmosphere, outdoor tea shops spill onto the street, inviting visitors to sit back, sip a warm cup of tea, and enjoy the simple pleasure of people-watching.
Exploring the street in spring offers a variety of delightful experiences. Food lovers can indulge in seasonal treats like lotus root pancakes and sweet osmanthus cakes, both of which capture the delicate flavors of the season. Those interested in craftsmanship will enjoy browsing traditional silk shops, where Hangzhou’s renowned silk products showcase the city’s rich textile heritage. A visit to Hu Qing Yu Tang, a historic Chinese pharmacy, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of traditional medicine, complete with an engaging museum that tells the story of ancient healing practices.
Visiting Hangzhou in spring is like stepping into a classical Chinese painting, where cherry blossoms float on the lake, tea plantations shimmer in the sunlight, and pagodas rise above misty hills. Whether you’re sipping freshly brewed Longjing tea, wandering through a bamboo forest, or cruising across West Lake at sunset, spring in Hangzhou is an experience that stays with you forever.
🌸 Pro Tip: Spring weather in Hangzhou is mild but unpredictable—pack a light jacket and an umbrella for occasional drizzles.
Hanoi, the charming capital of Vietnam, is a city where history, culture, and nature intertwine. From its French colonial architecture and ancient temples to its bustling street markets, Hanoi is a delightful blend of old and new.
While Hanoi is lively year-round, spring (February–April) is the best time to visit. The weather is cool and comfortable, peach blossoms and kumquat trees fill the streets, and the city buzzes with traditional festivals, colorful parades, and cultural performances.
If you’re looking for a destination where tradition and nature come alive in spring, Hanoi offers an unforgettable experience.
At the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is the city’s most iconic landmark, and in spring, it becomes a floral paradise. The cherry blossoms, peach blossoms, and banyan trees surrounding the lake create a tranquil oasis amidst the busy city streets.
Visiting Hoan Kiem Lake in spring is a truly enchanting experience, as the blooming peach blossoms, known as Hoa Đào, symbolize good luck and prosperity, creating a vibrant atmosphere around the lake. The morning mist adds a mystical beauty to the scene, while locals practicing tai chi on the banks contribute to a calming and picturesque moment.
Among the best things to do during this season is to explore Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful 15th-century structure located on an island in the lake, which is easily accessible via the striking red Huc Bridge. Additionally, visitors can admire the stunning displays of cherry blossoms and peach flowers set up around the lake. A leisurely stroll along the lakeside at sunset provides a magical experience, as the soft golden light reflects off the water, enhancing the serene ambiance of this iconic location.
🌸 Best photo spot:
Stand at the Huc Bridge and capture a shot with the temple, lake, and cherry blossoms in the background—it’s the perfect spring postcard from Hanoi.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the soul of the city, a lively district filled with centuries-old shophouses, street vendors, and traditional markets. In spring, the streets are decorated with flowers, lanterns, and festive banners, making it an unmissable experience.
Visiting Hanoi in spring offers a vibrant and culturally rich experience, especially during the Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) celebrations when the streets come alive with lion dances and vibrant red and gold decorations. Shops are adorned with beautiful peach blossom trees and kumquat trees, alongside traditional calligraphy scrolls that capture the spirit of the season.
While exploring the Old Quarter, make sure to visit Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s oldest market, where you can find a variety of spring festival snacks, silk lanterns, and handcrafted souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to try Banh Chung, a traditional Vietnamese sticky rice cake that is only made during Tet. For a lively atmosphere, Ta Hien Street is a must-visit, filled with cafés, bars, and street food stalls, making it an ideal spot for people-watching and soaking in the festive energy.
🌸 Bonus Tip: If you’re visiting in late February or early March, you’ll see the streets filled with calligraphy masters writing beautiful Vietnamese characters on red paper, a Tet tradition.
One of Vietnam’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, the Perfume Pagoda (Chùa Hương) is a stunning temple complex hidden deep in the mountains, surrounded by lush forests and blooming flowers.
Visiting the Perfume Pagoda in spring offers a unique and enchanting experience, particularly during the annual Perfume Pagoda Festival from February to March, which attracts thousands of pilgrims seeking good fortune. The breathtaking boat ride along the Yen River becomes even more picturesque as pink water lilies bloom along the riverbanks.
To fully immerse yourself in this natural beauty, taking a traditional wooden boat ride to the pagoda is a must, as it allows you to glide past misty limestone karsts and tranquil villages. Additionally, hiking up to the Huong Tich Cave, where the main temple is nestled inside a mystical cavern, enhances the experience and connects visitors with both nature and spirituality.
🌸 Pro Tip: Visit in early morning to enjoy the peaceful spiritual atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
A few hours from Hanoi, Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural wonders. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this bay of emerald waters and limestone islands is especially magical in spring, when soft mist drapes over the towering karsts, creating a mystical fairytale-like scenery.
Visiting Halong Bay in spring is a truly enchanting experience, as the misty mornings enhance the beauty of the jagged limestone formations, creating a picturesque landscape. The cool spring weather allows for enjoyable activities such as kayaking, cruising, and island-hopping.
Among the best things to do in Halong Bay is to take a luxury overnight cruise, where you can witness the breathtaking sunrise over the bay. Additionally, exploring the Sung Sot Cave, one of the bay's most famous attractions, offers a glimpse into the area's stunning natural wonders. A visit to Ti Top Island is also a must, where you can hike up to a viewpoint and revel in a stunning panoramic view of the bay that will leave you in awe.
🌸 Bonus Tip: If you visit in late March or April, the water is warm enough for a springtime swim in the bay!
Spring in Hanoi is a season of renewal, celebration, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re watching cherry blossoms fall over Hoan Kiem Lake, sailing through the misty wonders of Halong Bay, or wandering through the lively Old Quarter during Tet, Hanoi offers a once-in-a-lifetime spring experience.
🌸 Pro Tip: Since Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is the biggest holiday of the year, some shops and restaurants may be closed—plan ahead if visiting during this time!
Spring is the perfect season to explore these five stunning oriental destinations. Whether you’re captivated by Japan’s cherry blossoms, Korea’s vibrant festivals, Taiwan’s scenic landscapes, China’s tea culture, or Vietnam’s rich history, each location offers something unique and unforgettable.
To make the most of your trip, consider booking flights and accommodations early, as spring is a peak travel season in these destinations. Pack light layers, bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and get ready for an enchanting spring adventure!
Where will you travel this spring?
