Camellias are celebrated in Korea because of their hardiness and ability to thrive even in cold winters. Their bold, vibrant flowers blooming amidst the frost inspire hope, resilience, and beauty during challenging times. This makes them deeply meaningful in Korean culture, representing qualities that are both admirable and aspirational.
Here are 10 famous camellia flower spots in Korea, along with detailed explanations of their unique charm and guidance for visiting:
10 camellia flower spots in Korea
1. Jeju Camellia Hill (제주 동백수목원)
This expansive botanical garden is one of Korea's largest camellia parks, featuring over 6,000 camellia trees of 500 varieties. Camellias bloom from October to April, painting the garden with vivid red, pink, and white hues.
Beautiful walking trails, photo zones, and unique varieties like the "black camellia."
Tips: Visit in early spring or winter for peak blooming and fewer crowds.
Location: Jeju Island, Andeok-myeon
2. Wando Camellia Forest (완도 동백림)
Located in Wando Arboretum, this forest is designated a natural monument and showcases a dense natural camellia forest that offers breathtaking red blooms.
Quiet trails, cool ocean breezes, and rich biodiversity. Perfect for nature lovers.
Tips: Plan a trip between December and March when camellias are in full bloom.
Location: Wando Island, Jeollanam-do
3. Boseong Camellia Hill (보성 다향동산)
Famous for its green tea fields, Boseong also features a gorgeous camellia hill. The contrast of green tea fields and red camellias creates a unique and picturesque landscape.
Combine green tea field tours with camellia flower photography.
Tips: Stay until sunset for mesmerizing views of the fields and flowers.
Location: Boseong, Jeollanam-do
4. 1004 Island Cheonsaseom Bonsai Garden (천사의 섬 분재공원)
Known for hosting an annual camellia festival, this park is home to around 40 million camellias and various bonsai trees.
Enjoy the 3km camellia forest trail and artistic exhibits at the Sunset Art Museum.
Tips: Wear red clothing during the festival for discounted admission.
Location: Aphae Island, Sinan County
5. Dongbaekseom Island (동백섬)
A picturesque island with scenic walking trails, camellia groves, and the famous Nurimaru APEC House.
Enjoy coastal views alongside vibrant camellia blooms in winter.
Tips: Visit in February or March when flowers are at their peak, and explore nearby Haeundae Beach.
Location: Haeundae, Busan
6. Geoje Maemi Castle (거제 매미성)
This quirky hand-built fortress has become famous for its stunning views of the ocean and its surrounding camellia trees.
Red camellias set against the stone fortress and the sea.
Tips: Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular photography opportunities.
Location: Geoje, Gyeongsangnam-do
7. Ssangyesa Temple (쌍계사)
A serene temple known for its camellia blossoms, cherry blossoms, and peaceful surroundings.
Camellia trees line the pathways to the temple, offering a spiritual and scenic experience.
Tips: Visit in March for camellias and cherry blossoms blooming simultaneously.
Location: Hadong, Gyeongsangnam-do
8. Odongdo Island (오동도)
A small island known as "Camellia Island," with over 3,000 camellia trees.
Coastal walking trails, lighthouse views, and vibrant winter blooms.
Tips: The best time to visit is from November to March. Try the Odongdo Island cruise for a unique perspective.
Location: Yeosu, Jeollanam-do
9. Unjusa Temple (운주사)
Famous for its mysterious stone pagodas and statues, Unjusa Temple also has camellia trees adding to its serene atmosphere.
Explore the temple grounds surrounded by blooming camellias and centuries-old cultural relics.
Tips: Visit in late winter or early spring for the best blooms.
Location: Hwasun, Jeollanam-do
10. Camellia Garden at Jangheung Cypress Forest (장흥 편백숲 동백나무원)
This lesser-known gem combines the therapeutic atmosphere of a cypress forest with the beauty of camellia flowers.
The calming scent of cypress trees mixed with colorful camellia blooms.
Tips: Perfect for a day of relaxation and meditation amidst nature.
Location: Jangheung, Jeollanam-do
Best Visiting Tips for Camellia travel in Korea
Camellias typically bloom from late fall (November) to early spring (April), but the peak season depends on the location.
If you want to take a camellia photography, Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for capturing the vibrant red hues of the flowers.
Many of these camellia spots are near other popular tourist destinations, so plan a combined itinerary for a richer experience.
Legend of Camellia Flowers in Korea
One of the most well-known legends about camellia flowers in Korea revolves around eternal love and devotion. It is said that long ago, a beautiful maiden and a humble woodcutter fell deeply in love. Despite their different social standings, their love for each other was pure and unwavering. However, when the maiden’s father discovered their relationship, he forbade her from seeing the woodcutter and arranged for her to marry someone else.
Heartbroken, the maiden prayed to the gods to protect her love. Touched by her devotion, the gods transformed her into a camellia tree and the woodcutter into a stream that flowed around the tree. The tree bloomed bright red flowers every year, symbolizing her eternal love for the woodcutter, while the stream nourished the roots of the tree, signifying his enduring care. To this day, camellias are seen as symbols of eternal love and devotion in Korea.
Gallery for Camellia Flowers in Korea
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