North Korea Travel Guide (East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to North Korea
List of Places to Visit in North Korea
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of North Korea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of North Korea
Best Things to Do in North Korea: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for North Korea
Food and Drink Scene of North Korea
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in North Korea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in North Korea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of North Korea
Best Time to Visit North Korea
Do’s and Don’ts of North Korea
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in North Korea
- Health in North Korea
Getting to North Korea: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in North Korea
Where to Go Next from North Korea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to North Korea

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, is a country located in East Asia. Despite its controversial political situation, North Korea remains a fascinating destination for travelers looking to explore its unique culture, stunning natural landscapes, and historic landmarks.

While it’s true that traveling here is not as straightforward as in other countries, visitors to North Korea are rewarded with unforgettable experiences that are unlike anywhere else in the world.

Here’s a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know for planning a trip to North Korea.

List of Places to Visit in North Korea

North Korea has a number of culturally significant attractions that visitors shouldn’t miss. Additionally, the country boasts beautiful natural scenery that’s perfect for outdoor adventures.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most fascinating museums in North Korea is the Korean Central History Museum in Pyongyang. The museum spans over several stories and traces Korea’s history from prehistoric times to the modern era. It’s a great place to learn about North Korea’s history and culture.

Another must-visit attraction is the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, a mausoleum where the bodies of North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung, and his son, Kim Jong Il, were placed on display. The palace showcases the country’s extreme devotion to its leaders and provides an insight into North Korean propaganda.

If you’re interested in military history, make sure to visit the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum, which commemorates the Korean War. There are several exhibits, including tanks and planes that were captured during the war.

Natural Attractions of North Korea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking to experience North Korea’s natural beauty, there are several national parks worth exploring. Mount Paektu National Park, located on the border with China, is home to the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers.

The Kumgangsan Mountains, located in southeastern North Korea, offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The stunning scenery includes waterfalls, hot springs, and mesmerizing landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Korea

North Korea offers numerous routes for hikers and bikers to explore its natural landscapes.

The best hiking routes are located in North Korea’s national parks, including Mount Kumgang and Mount Paektu. The trails are well-maintained, and visitors can choose to tackle easy, moderate or more challenging routes.

For biking enthusiasts, North Korea offers a unique experience to cycle through the countryside and enjoy the stunning scenery. Bike tours usually take in places like the cities of Pyongyang and Kaesong as well as rural villages.

Best Things to Do in North Korea: Activities and Tours

North Korea offers an array of activities and tours that provide a unique and unforgettable experience of the country.

One of the most popular tours is the DMZ (demilitarized zone) tour where visitors can explore one of the tensest borders in the world. Visitors can also explore the city of Pyongyang, paying homage to the country’s leaders and witnessing grand monuments and architecture.

Those interested in Korean culture can participate in Taekwondo classes, traditional Korean tea ceremonies, or get a North Korean massage. There are also many opportunities to get to know the locals and experience traditional North Korean customs.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Korea

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long tour of North Korea:

Day 1: Arrival in Pyongyang, visit the Arch of Triumph and Kim Il Sung Square
Day 2: Visit the Juche Tower, the Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery, and the Kim Il Sung University
Day 3: Visit the DMZ, the Joint Security Area, and the Kaesong city
Day 4: Visit the Kumsusan Palace, the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum, and the Pyongyang Metro
Day 5: Visit the Moranbong Park, the Mansudae Grand Monument, and the Arch of Reunification
Day 6: Hike in Mt. Kumgang or Mt. Paektu and take a bike tour
Day 7: Depart from Pyongyang

Food and Drink Scene of North Korea

North Korean cuisine is an amalgamation of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean food cultures. Here are some of North Korea’s must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

Naengmyeon: Cold buckwheat noodles served in a tangy broth with slices of steak and vegetables
Kimchi: Spicy and fermented vegetable dish that is a Korean staple
Pibimbap: A dish of mixed rice, vegetables, meat, and chili pepper paste

Local Beverages

Soju: A clear and colorless distilled spirit that is popular in North Korea and South Korea
Taedonggang Beer: A North Korean beer that has quickly become a favorite amongst locals and visitors

Where to Stay in North Korea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

In North Korea, foreigners are required by law to stay in specified hotels. The most popular option is the Yanggakdo International Hotel in Pyongyang, which offers a mix of western and Korean-style rooms.

However, recently, North Korea has opened up some alternatives for travelers. Ryomyong Hotel is a newly built 105-story hotel that positions itself as a luxury hotel. Hotels are present in other regions as well.

What to Buy in North Korea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North Korea has several unique souvenirs to pick from as a gift. The most popular souvenir is the Juche-Loving Heart Chain, a necklace featuring a small red heart-shaped pendant adorned with a portrait of Kim Jong Un.

Other souvenirs include army-style hats, propaganda posters, and local handicrafts. The Pyongyang Department Store No. 1 and Kwangbok Department Store are good shopping spots.

Local Culture and Customs of North Korea

One of the most striking traits of North Korea is the widespread worship of the country’s leaders. Visitors are required to show respect to the images or statues of the leaders by bowing before them.

Additionally, visitors should dress conservatively, as North Koreans prefer modest clothing. Avoid taking photos of military and government buildings without permission.

Best Time to Visit North Korea

The best time to visit North Korea is in the months of April to May and September to October, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. Summertime can be hot and humid, while winter can be harsh and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Korea

Do:

Show respect to the country’s leaders
Dress modestly
Listen to your guides’ instructions
Try local cuisine

Don’t:

Criticize the government or its leaders
Take photos without permission
Stray from your assigned group or the designated areas

Safety and Health

Safety in North Korea

North Korea is generally safe for tourists; however, visitors should take note of their surroundings and adhere to their guides’ instructions. Petty crime is rare, and violent crime is unusual.

Health in North Korea

Visitors should ensure that they are up-to-date on their routine vaccinations before traveling to North Korea. Visitors may also consider getting vaccinated against typhoid, hepatitis A, and B.

Getting to North Korea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Foreigners can enter North Korea by plane or train. The most common entry point is the Pyongyang International Airport. Visitors can also enter by train through China or Russia, most commonly the Pyongyang train station.

Airports Near North Korea

Pyongyang International Airport
Shenyang Taoxian International Airport
Vladivostok International Airport

Bus Stations Near North Korea

Beijing Central Bus Station
Shenyang Bus Terminal

Other Options

Visitors can also take a boat to North Korea from the port city of Dalian, China. However, this option is less popular than traveling by air or train.

How to Get Around in North Korea

Foreigners are required to have guides accompany them at all times, so transportation is organized by tour companies. Visitors will travel on designated buses or trains to various destinations within the country.

Where to Go Next from North Korea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Korea has limited international connectivity, and most travelers exit the country through China. Visitors can choose to continue their travels in China, Russia, or Japan.

Conclusion

North Korea remains one of the most enigmatic and secretive countries globally, but that doesn’t mean visitors can’t experience the country’s unique culture and hidden beauty. With careful planning and a licensed tour operator, a trip to North Korea can be a fascinating experience for travelers looking for something extraordinary.