Although winter is not over yet with the cold wind touching your face, the weather is getting warmer and warmer towards spring. In Busan, plum blossoms are in full bloom, spreading the sweet scent of spring all over the place. We are here to introduce you to three plum blossom spots beloved by Busan residents. Shall we go on a spring journey to these places?

Suyeong Historical Park

The first plum blossom destination to check out in Busan is Suyeong Historical Park. Suyeong used to be where the Headquarters of Gyeongsangjwado Naval Force Commander was located during the Joseon period. Suyeong was its shorted form which this area was named after. Suyeong Historical Park was built on the site where the Headquarters of Gyeongsangjwado Naval Force Commander was located. The Headquarters of Gyeongsangjwado Naval Force Commander oversaw the four military camps along the southern coast. Given that, this place is full of historical sites such as South Gate of Suyeongseong Fortress, Altar to Twenty-five Heroes enshrined with the ancient tablets for 25 fallen heroes, and Shrine to General An Yongbok, a guardian of Dokdo Island during the Joseon period. Neighboring Suyeong History Museum that protects and preserves intangible cultural properties such as Suyeong Yaryu (Mask Dance Drama of Suyeong), it has become the best-known historical park in Busan.

Once you pass the outdoor theater space in Suyeong History Museum and reach the Shrine to General An Yongbok, a few plum blossom trees will come into sight. They will start to bear flower buds in mid-February which will come into full bloom between late February and early March. The spirit of plum blossoms, which have managed to survive a freezing winter, goes perfectly well with the atmosphere of Suyeong Historical Park. Although you may still want to button up your overcoat, you can wait for spring ahead of time by enjoying the plum blossoms in full bloom.

Chungnyeolsa Shrine

Located in Allak-dong, Dongnae-gu, Chungnyeolsa Shrine has the ancestral tablets of patriotic martyrs who sacrificed themselves during the Japanese Invasions of Korea in 1592. Despite its heavy atmosphere, it is also known as the best flower viewing spot throughout the year, often visited not only by local residents but also by tourists across the country. Since spring is just around the corner, it is now crowded with people wishing to see plum blossoms in full bloom.

If you walk a few more steps after passing the entrance, you will see beautiful plum blossoms in full bloom on your left. The trees are so tall and thick that plum blossoms growing out of their branches are just like a heap of white snow. You may start enjoying the fresh scent of flowers. The scent will guide you to beautiful red prumusmume in full bloom in one corner. Cornelian cherry flowers around it are an indicator that spring has come

It takes only 30 minutes to look around Chungnyelsa Shrine. Since it is not too crowded in most cases, you can enjoy a taste of spring in a laid-back environment, which is even better. You may lose track of time, having fun finding beautiful flowers such as camelia, magnolia, and cornelian cherry flowers hidden in every corner of the shrine.

UN Memorial Cemetery

Did you know that the world’s one and only UN memorial cemetery is located in Busan? Yes, we are talking about UN Memorial Cemetery located in Daeyeon-dong, Nam-gu. It is a memorial for UN peacekeepers who sacrificed themselves during the Korean War. At this time of the year, this cemetery becomes a famous plum blossom viewing spot often visited by tourists across the country.

Among numerous plum blossom spots in Busan, UN Memorial Cemetery is particularly popular because it is home to beautiful red prumusmume in one corner. Red prumusmume is known not only for its beautiful pink petals but also for its captivating scent. You cannot help but noticing the existence of red prumusmume from a distance.

Plum blossoms at UN Memorial Cemetery are quick at bearing buds starting with early February as an indicator of spring. You must hurry yourself not to miss plum blossoms in full bloom. Since they come into bloom in the middle of winter, you may find them even more precious. If you want to enjoy a taste of spring faster than anyone else, UN Memorial Cemetery would be a perfect place to visit.