About 25% of Koreans are Buddhists, so naturally, the birthday of Gautama Buddha is a major holiday in Korea. It is an official public holiday.

This holiday is celebrated on the 8th day of the 4th lunar month.

In Seoul, the most colorful event related to Buddha's birthday does not always coincide with this date. It is the famous "Lotus Lantern Parade." A grand procession, reminiscent of a carnival but in a more serene form, moves along one of Seoul's main streets—Bell Street (Jongno)—in the evening. The lanterns come in various shapes and sizes, from traditional handheld lotus-shaped lanterns to huge lanterns in the shape of dragons, phoenixes, elephants, and more.

We have prepared a rich program for you, which includes cities deeply connected with the historical roots of the Korean people: the capital of the ancient Korean kingdom—Gyeongju, Seoul, the largest port—Busan, and UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Seokguram Grotto, the main temple of the Silla Kingdom—Bulguksa, the traditional village of Yangdong... In addition, we will visit the beautiful mountainous Seoraksan National Park ("Snowy Peaks"). And, of course, we will enjoy the magnificent spectacle of the "Lotus Lantern Parade" in Seoul.

Buddha's Birthday and East Coast