🌸 Cherry Blossom Walk at Yangjaecheon & Maeheon Citizens’ Forest (April 16, 2025)

After a Weekend of Stormy Winds

Words by Jeong-Yoon Lee

Why does it always have to be the weekend when the winds go wild?

The weather had been just lovely until midweek, but right when cherry blossoms hit full bloom, we were met with sudden cold and stormy gusts. It was such a shame — Seocho district had prepared all kinds of spring events around the blossoms, but the weather simply didn’t cooperate.

I ended up spending the weekend hibernating indoors, but with the sun back today and a library pickup waiting, I took a stroll around Yangjaecheon and Maeheon Citizens’ Forest. Cherry blossoms were already falling like rain right from my front door.

🏞️ Yangjaecheon, Seocho District

There’s quite a bit of construction happening along Yangjaecheon at the moment — but something exciting is being added!

Benches and tables are finally being installed along the decked paths under the big trees. I’ve always loved that shade, but until now, there was nowhere to sit and rest. Now it’s becoming the perfect spot for picnics and lazy mornings.

Personally, I love May more than cherry blossom season. There’s something about how the lush green explodes into life once the petals have fallen. That moment when everything goes full green? That’s when I come out to picnic and just zone out under the trees.

🌳 Maeheon Citizens’ Forest

Down by the Yeoui Stream area, construction was also underway, and some walking paths were closed off.

I suspect they’re preparing for summer rain — this area can flood easily, so it makes sense. I had planned to walk along the lower cherry blossom path, but it was blocked. Still, there were some blossoms hanging on, and a few visitors were out enjoying what was left. It’s always a little sad to see them vanish so quickly.

🌸 Cherry Blossom Walk Tracker

• Total Distance: 4.57 km

• Steps: Approx. 6,725

• Time: Around 65 minutes

• Route: Yeongdong Bridge 1 → Yangjae Library (book walk along the stream) → Spring Playground → Maeheon Citizens’ Forest → Yangjae Riverside Stage → Yeongdong Bridge 2

📚 Book of the Day: 

The Editor’s Way of Keeping Records

The book I picked up at the library opened with this line:

“What you’ve seen doesn’t escape you.”

Such a powerful thought, right?

So don’t be too sad about the cherry blossoms falling. They’ve been captured — in your eyes, in your memory. Now, vivid green is waiting just around the corner. Let’s all get ready for a season of picnics and peaceful mornings outdoors 🌿

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📸 Words & Photos by Jeong-Yoon Lee