Experience the Magic of Hongmaehwa: Your Ultimate Guide to Spring in Nagan Eupseong

Spring is in the air at Suncheon’s serene Nakaneupseong Fortress, where the vibrant red plum blossoms are starting to bud, heralding the arrival of warmer days ahead.

These stunning blooms are more than just a pretty face – they’re the unofficial mascots of springtime at Nakaneupseong. Even when there’s still a chill in the air, their bold crimson petals and delicate fragrance signal that winter’s on its way out. Set against the backdrop of ancient fortress walls and charming thatched-roof houses, these blossoms create a picture-perfect scene that’s sure to stop visitors in their tracks.

The Instagram-worthy Red Plum Blossom Street at Nakaneupseong is a relatively new addition, born from the “Red Plum Blossom Village Project” that ran from 2019 to 2022. Now, over 1,000 red plum trees, including the Nabwol and Neungsu varieties, dot the landscape in and around the fortress. Come early spring, it’s a hotspot for leisurely strolls and photo ops, with crimson blooms and sweet scents as far as the eye can see.

For those looking to get their plum blossom fix even earlier, nearby Geumdunsa Temple is the place to be. Home to six Nabwol plum trees, it’s known for having the first blooms in all of Jeollanam-do province – making it the perfect kickoff point for blossom chasers.

Mark your calendars: the red plum blossoms are expected to start their show in late February, hitting peak bloom by early March. Right now, the buds around Nakaneupseong are plumping up and taking on a rosy hue, suggesting they’ll be in full swing around the Lunar New Year holiday.

A spokesperson for the Nakaneupseong Support Project Office shared their hopes for visitors: “We want everyone coming to Nakaneupseong during the holiday to soak in the essence of spring. Take in the sweet scent of the red plum blossoms, snap some photos, and really savor that early spring vibe alongside our incredible cultural heritage.”