Spring in Korea is a magical time, and for flower enthusiasts like me, it’s the perfect season to embark on a flower-hunting adventure. This year, I decided to add Ganghwa-do, Korea’s fifth-largest island, to my list of must-visit destinations. The reason? A charming daisy field at Mahogany Coffee that had been flooding my social media feed. With its picturesque blooms and cozy cafe vibes, it was impossible to resist.
Getting to Ganghwa-do
Our trip coincided with Buddha’s Birthday, a national holiday celebrated on May 19 this year. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect—mid-May is when the daisies in Ganghwa-do are in full bloom. Ganghwa-do is just a 1.5-hour drive from Seoul, making it an ideal day trip destination. However, I quickly learned that planning is key, especially during holidays and weekends. The traffic leading to Ganghwa Bridge (강화대교) was intense, and we spent nearly an hour waiting to cross. If you’re planning a visit, consider leaving early or opting for public transportation. Buses are available, but schedules are less frequent outside the city, so plan accordingly.
First Impressions & Finding a Spot
We arrived at Mahogany Coffee late in the afternoon and, as expected, parking was full. The place was bustling with families and couples, all eager to snap pictures of the beautiful daisies. Given the crowd, we decided to explore a bit and ended up at Cafe Doredore Ganghwa Branch, just next door. This turned out to be a fantastic choice, as we not only found seats but also discovered their famous daisy-themed cake (9,500KW per slice)—a perfect match for the floral surroundings. The cake was not only delicious but also highly Instagram-worthy when held up against the blooming daisies. A must-try!
Expanding the Experience
While wandering, I noticed that some areas around the cafes were undergoing expansion. Hopefully, this means more daisies and seating space next spring! If you’re planning a trip beyond May, don’t worry—once the daisies fade away in June, the place transforms with vibrant clusters of hydrangeas, offering another breathtaking floral spectacle.
Final Thoughts
My trip to Ganghwa-do to witness the daisy bloom turned out to be an unforgettable experience. The delicate white flowers, the cozy cafes, and the scenic island setting made it a highlight of my spring travels. If you’re a nature lover or simply enjoy picturesque spots, Mahogany Coffee and Cafe Doredore Ganghwa Branch should definitely be on your list when visiting Ganghwa Island.
Best Time to Visit
The daisy bloom peaks from mid-May to the first week of June. Based on my visit on May 19, I can confidently say that this is the ideal time to catch the flowers in their prime.
How to Get to Cafe Doredore Ganghwa Branch
For those relying on public transportation to reach Cafe Doredore Ganghwa Branch, start by taking bus M6117 from Seoul Station bound for Gurae Station (구래역), then transfer to bus 700-1 heading to Onsuri (온수리). Once you arrive at Onsuri, take bus route 3 to Manisansanghoe (마니산상회), followed by a short 600m walk to Cafe Doredore. Keep in mind that the entire trip can take up to 3 hours, and when transferring to local buses like route 3, be prepared for long and erratic intervals between buses, so plan your time accordingly to avoid delays.
Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a cafe lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Ganghwa-do is a destination worth exploring. Don’t forget to add Mahogany Coffee and Cafe Doredore to your itinerary—you won’t regret it!
Until next spring, happy flower hunting! 🌼
Access Map
Quick Info about Cafe Dore Dore & Mahogani
Cafe Doredore
Address: 인천광역시 강화군 화도면 흥왕리 355-21
Naver Map: Link
Hours: 10:00AM-7:00PM (Weekends) | 11:00PM-6:00PM (Weekdays)
Instagram: @doredoreofficial
Cafe Mahogany
Address: 인천 강화군 화도면 해안남로1844번길 19
Naver Map: Link
Hours: 10:00AM-8:00PM (Weekends) | 11:00PM-6:00PM (Weekdays)
Instagram: @mahoganycafe
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