Chasing cherry blossoms in Seoul

SEOUL, Korea—Happiness is cherry blossoms. Yep, that is my takeaway, as I chased the lovely blooms in Seoul this springtime.

It was a goal I set in early January, the height of winter in Korea. A friend/fellow accomplice and I patiently waited for the forecast when the blossoms would be at their peak in the city. Once we got that, plans were underway and, like a K-drama, I looked forward to walking beneath a pathway of cherry blossom trees showered with petals, like snow. There was a window of five days to catch the blossoms, and we chose the top three places to see them.

The cherry blossoms in Korea are mostly white to delicate pink in color; I believe they are of the Yoshino variety. They look so fresh, pretty, and pristine, reminding me of the untarnished days of youth. After a horrific pandemic, and life overwhelmingly getting back to regular programming, I knew I would savor and need this as fuel to move forward.

Seoul Forest

Our first stop was Seoul Forest, which is like the Central Park of the city. The cherry blossoms were grouped in certain areas and promenades. It was lovely to see many picnicking under the trees. There were wooden tables and blankets all over with lovers resting side by side, families with children running about, people walking their dogs. I soaked up all these positive and happy vibes. The park was full and there were many Instagrammable spots. One could go atop a nursery, which had numerous colorful flowers, and be enveloped by cherry blossom branches. There was a line and when it was our turn, we snapped away. To be honest, I wanted to climb the trees and just sit there, like a monkey. But no, it wasn’t possible. It wasn’t allowed.

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