Bulgapsa Cluster Amaryllis Festival 2026: September's Red Bloom in Yeonggwang

As summer fades and autumn approaches in September, there's one place in South Korea where you can witness the most vibrant crimson landscape:

Bulgapsan Mountain in Yeonggwang, Jeollanam-do.

Millions of breathtaking cluster amaryllis (Sangsahwa) flowers will blanket the paths leading to Bulgapsa Temple during the 26th Yeonggwang Bulgapsan Cluster Amaryllis Festival, set to open on September 18th, 2026.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know, from the festival schedule and programs to parking tips and recommended nearby attractions, all in one place!

26th Yeonggwang Bulgapsan Cluster Amaryllis Festival 2026

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Dates

September 18th (Friday) ~ September 27th (Sunday), 2026, for 10 days

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Location

Bulgapsa Tourist Zone, 450 Bulgapsa-ro, Bulgab-myeon, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea

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Admission Fee

Free

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Operating Hours

10:00 AM ~ 9:00 PM (including evening programs)

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Organizer/Host

Bulgapsan Cluster Amaryllis Festival Promotion Committee & Executive Committee

(For inquiries: ☎ 061-350-5269)

What is Cluster Amaryllis (Sangsahwa) and Why is Bulgapsan Famous?

The cluster amaryllis, or Sangsahwa, is known for its unique lifecycle: its leaves appear when the flowers are gone, and its flowers bloom when there are no leaves. This distinct characteristic has led it to symbolize unrequited love.

Bulgapsan is renowned for its vast cluster amaryllis colonies. Starting with pink varieties in August, followed by Wido amaryllis and Paeonia lactiflora, by September, the mountain and its pathways are awash in the largest crimson cluster amaryllis bloom in the nation. With different colored flowers appearing throughout the season, it's worth visiting any time during August and September.

What's New at This Year's Festival?

The 26th festival marks a significant shift from a stage-performance-centric event to a flower-focused, stay-oriented experience.

With a theme centered around family, the festival highlights programs like the Cluster Amaryllis Flower Path Exploration. There's a significant increase in activities designed for visitors to linger and enjoy, such as temple food experiences and the Cluster Amaryllis Cinema.

Featured Programs

Cluster Amaryllis Flower Path Walk

Moonlight Stroll (Nighttime illuminated walk)

Cluster Amaryllis Media Facade

Cluster Amaryllis in Love Concert

Temple Food Experience

Cluster Amaryllis Cinema

Provincial Korean Traditional Music Orchestra Performance, Cluster Amaryllis University Song Festival, and more.

Whether you visit during the day to see the lush green forests intertwined with crimson flowers, or at night to experience the magical illuminated landscapes, the festival offers a unique and memorable experience around the clock.

Practical Tips Before You Visit

Admission and Operating Hours

Entry to the festival is free throughout the entire duration. However, if you plan to enjoy the special evening programs, we recommend arriving before 6:00 PM.

Parking and Transportation

On weekends, the road leading to Bulgapsa Temple can experience significant traffic congestion, and parking can be challenging. Shuttle buses are expected to operate during the festival.

For detailed stop locations and schedules, it's advisable to check the official website or contact the organizers (+82-61-350-5269) closer to your visit date.

If you're driving on a weekend, consider arriving early in the morning to walk the flower paths before the crowds arrive, or come in the late afternoon to enjoy the evening programs consecutively.

Accessibility for Visitors with Mobility Needs

Within the Bulgapsa Tourist Zone, barrier-free walking paths have been created, allowing visitors using wheelchairs or strollers to easily explore the yellow and red cluster amaryllis colonies.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Yeonggwang town tends to fill up quickly during the festival period. It's highly recommended to book your stay in advance once your travel dates are set.

Recommended Autumn Travel Itinerary in Southern Korea

Instead of just visiting Bulgapsa, consider combining it with nearby attractions for a more fulfilling 1-night, 2-day trip.

Suggested Route

Morning: Stroll through Bulgapsa's flower paths → Lunch at Bulgapsa entrance (try barley rice and a wild vegetable set meal) → Afternoon: Drive to Beopseongpo for a Gulbi (dried yellow croaker) set meal for dinner → Evening: Enjoy the stunning sunset views along Baeksu Coastal Road.

Beopseongpo is not far by car, making it a perfect addition to your afternoon itinerary. Baeksu Coastal Road is famous for its spectacular sunsets, making it an ideal way to conclude your day. You could also consider combining Yeonggwang with Hampyeong, where Yongcheonsa Temple also hosts a cluster amaryllis festival around the same time, creating a wonderful autumn flower tour in the southern region.

Global Explorer's Takeaway

With its sea of red cluster amaryllis, the ancient Bulgapsa Temple, and free admission, the Yeonggwang Bulgapsan Cluster Amaryllis Festival is a perfect fall destination for families, couples, or a relaxing trip with your parents.

Keep in mind that bloom conditions can vary each year depending on the weather. We recommend checking the official website or live camera feed for real-time bloom status before your visit to ensure the best experience.

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