The Lantern Festival is one of the most anticipated holidays in Korea, celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month. This day marks the completion of the Chinese New Year festivities and is celebrated with bright, beautiful lanterns and traditional customs. Lanterns are hung around the streets and in homes to bring good luck and fortune for the coming year. For those looking to travel to Korea during Lantern Festival, there are plenty of places to visit and experiences to enjoy. From vibrant festivals and ancient temples to unique local dishes, here are some places to travel to during the Lantern Festival in Korea.
Seoul
Seoul is the capital of South Korea and is a bustling metropolis filled with history, culture, and beauty. Every year, the city celebrates the Lantern Festival with its own unique festivities, including the traditional Lantern Parade. This event takes place along the Cheonggyecheon Stream in downtown Seoul and features hundreds of brightly colored lanterns. The parade is accompanied by performances from local artists, traditional dragon dances, and the sound of traditional Korean instruments. This is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of Seoul and the Lantern Festival.
In addition to the parade, there are several other events and activities worth checking out during the Lantern Festival in Seoul. One of the most popular activities is a visit to the Seoul Lantern Festival Village. This village is filled with colorful lanterns, traditional Korean food, and performances from local musicians. The village is also a great place to pick up traditional souvenirs and get a taste of Seoul’s culture.
Gyeongju
Gyeongju is a city located in the northern part of South Korea and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is also home to some of the most beautiful temples in the country. During the Lantern Festival, Gyeongju is filled with colorful lanterns, traditional Korean music, and vibrant performances.
One of the most popular events during the Lantern Festival in Gyeongju is the Hwangnyongsa Lantern Festival. This annual event is held at the Hwangnyongsa Temple and features thousands of lanterns, traditional performances, and local food. This is a great way to get a glimpse of the traditional culture of Gyeongju and to experience the Lantern Festival.
Jeonju
Jeonju is a city located in the western part of South Korea and is known for its traditional culture and food. During the Lantern Festival, Jeonju celebrates its own unique festivities. The city hosts a Lantern Parade that features hundreds of brightly colored lanterns and traditional performances. This is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of Jeonju and the Lantern Festival.
Jeonju is also home to some of the best traditional Korean food in the country. This is an excellent opportunity to try some of the city’s unique dishes, such as bibimbap and jeonju-style kimchi. In addition to the food, there are also plenty of traditional festivals and performances worth checking out during the Lantern Festival in Jeonju.
Busan
Busan is a port city located in southern South Korea and is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. During the Lantern Festival, the city celebrates its own unique events and activities. One of the most popular events is the Gwangalli Beach Lantern Festival. This event features thousands of brightly colored lanterns, traditional performances, and local food. This is a great way to experience the culture of Busan and the Lantern Festival.
In addition to the Lantern Festival, there are also several other events and activities worth checking out in Busan. One of the most popular activities is a visit to the Haeundae Beach Boardwalk. This boardwalk is filled with restaurants, shops, and bars, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or grab a drink.
Jeju Island
Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination located off the southern coast of South Korea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush green forests, and traditional culture. During the Lantern Festival, Jeju celebrates its own unique festivities. The island hosts a traditional lantern parade, with thousands of brightly colored lanterns, traditional performances, and local food. This is a great way to experience the culture of Jeju and the Lantern Festival.
In addition to the Lantern Festival, there are also plenty of other activities and attractions worth checking out on Jeju Island. One of the most popular attractions is the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, which is an ancient volcanic crater located on the island. Here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and experience the unique culture of Jeju Island.
The Lantern Festival is a great time to travel to Korea and experience the country’s vibrant culture and unique customs. From vibrant lantern parades and traditional performances to unique local dishes and attractions, there are plenty of places to visit and experiences to enjoy during the Lantern Festival in Korea. Whether you’re looking to explore the ancient temples of Gyeongju or the modern metropolis of Seoul, Korea is sure to offer something for everyone during the Lantern Festival.