Kaesong Travel Guide

Discover Kaesong, a city in North Korea, with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on tourist attractions, hiking and biking trails, accommodations, local cuisine, and more.


Travel Guide to Kaesong

North Korea boasts of beautiful cities that are steeped in history and culture, and one of these places is Kaesong. Located in Hwanghae province, Kaesong is a city that is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and historical landmarks. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore and discover the best of Kaesong.

List of Places to Visit in Kaesong

Kaesong has some of the most beautiful tourist destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kaesong:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Koryo Museum: This museum houses various historical artifacts and pieces of artwork showcasing the history and culture of the Koryo Dynasty.
  • Sonjuk Bridge: Also known as the Langdon Bridge, this bridge connects Kaesong with a nearby temple and is one of the architectural wonders of Korea.
  • Tomb of King Kongmin: This tomb is the final resting place of King Kongmin, the 31st ruler of Korea.
  • Janam Hill and Pavilions: These pavilions and the hill offer a spectacular view of the city and its surroundings.

Natural Attractions of Kaesong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mt. Songak: This mountain overlooks the city of Kaesong and offers an incredible view of the surrounding greenery.
  • Rim Kkok Gate: This gate offers a panoramic view of Kaesong and its surroundings.
  • Nam Gate: This gate is one of the most well-preserved gates and offers a fascinating look at the city’s historical heritage.
  • Kaesong Folk Hotel: This traditional Korean hotel is set amidst a beautiful forest and is perfect for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaesong

Fancy a hike or a bike ride? You’re in luck, as Kaesong offers some of the best hiking and biking trails:

  • Songgyungwan University to Tomb of King Wanggon: This trail is a scenic route with beautiful mountains and streams that lead to the tomb of King Wanggon.
  • Mt. Songak Circuit: This trail is a circular route that takes you to the top of the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Kaesong: Activities and Tours

Kaesong offers several activities that cater to all types of visitors:

  • Visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): The DMZ is one of the most visited tourist spots in Korea and offers a glimpse into the ongoing conflict between the North and South.
  • Visit the Joint Security Area (JSA): The JSA is a small area located along the DMZ where North and South Korean officers can interact and negotiate.
  • Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at the Kaesong Folk Hotel: The hotel features a traditional Korean meal called Kaesong-style royal cuisine, which has over 40 different dishes.
  • Explore the city with a guided tour: A guided tour is an excellent way to explore Kaesong’s history and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kaesong

If you’re planning to visit Kaesong for a week, here’s our recommended itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Arrival
2 Visit the DMZ and JSA
3 Visit the Koryo Museum and Tomb of King Kongmin
4 Explore the city with a guided tour
5 Hike or bike on Mt. Songak Circuit
6 Visit the Sonjuk Bridge and Janam Hill
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kaesong

Kaesong has its own gastronomic heritage that is worth exploring. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaesong-style royal cuisine: A traditional Korean meal that originated from the court food of the Koryo Dynasty.
  • Naengmyeon: A cold noodle dish that is perfect for hot summer days.
  • Tteokgalbi: Grilled rib meat that is marinated in soy sauce and served on skewers.

Local Beverages

  • Kaesong Insam-ju: This is a traditional Korean liquor made with ginseng and has a slightly sweet taste.
  • Kaesong Goryangju: This is a type of wine made from goryangju grapes, which are native to the region.

Where to Stay in Kaesong: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kaesong has several options for accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses:

  • Minsok Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Kaesong and features traditional Korean architecture and design.
  • Kaesong Folk Hotel: A traditional Korean hotel located near a dense forest, offering guests a peaceful stay amidst nature.
  • Jeonjuyeong Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse located near the city center and offering comfortable accommodations.

What to Buy in Kaesong: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kaesong is known for its unique handicrafts and local products that make great souvenirs for visitors:

  • Kaesong Koryo-insam: This is a type of ginseng that is native to Kaesong and is said to have medicinal properties.
  • Kaesong Ceramics: Pottery and ceramics are some of the most famous products of Kaesong and are known for their intricate designs.
  • Koryo Soju: This is a traditional Korean liquor that is known for its smooth taste and is a great gift for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kaesong

Kaesong is known for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions:

  • Bowing: Visitors are encouraged to bow when greeting someone, especially when meeting someone older or of higher rank.
  • Dress Code: Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and avoid shorts or revealing clothing when visiting temples and traditional sites.

Best Time to Visit Kaesong

The best time to visit Kaesong is in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kaesong

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Carry your passport with you at all times.
  • Respect photography restrictions.

Don’t:

  • Show disrespect to the leaders or the country.
  • Cross the border without permission.
  • Engage in political discussions with locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kaesong

Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions while exploring Kaesong, such as not wandering off the beaten path and avoiding suspicious behavior.

Health in Kaesong

Kaesong is relatively safe and does not pose any significant health risks to visitors.

Getting to Kaesong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kaesong is located near the DMZ and is accessible by various means of transportation:

Airports Near Kaesong

  • Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (PYO)

Bus Stations Near Kaesong

  • Central Bus Station, Pyongyang

Other Options

  • There are no train services available to Kaesong.

How to Get Around in Kaesong

Getting around Kaesong is relatively easy as the city is small and compact. Visitors can use taxis, buses, or rent a bicycle to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Kaesong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Pyongyang: The capital city of North Korea is the largest and most popular destination for tourists visiting the country.
  • Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): This zone is a must-see for visitors to North Korea and is accessible from Kaesong.
  • Mount Kumgang: This mountain is located in the southeastern part of North Korea and offers excellent views and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Kaesong is a beautiful city that is steeped in history and culture, with several tourist destinations worth exploring. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Kaesong and make the most of your visit. Remember to respect local customs and traditions and to take necessary precautions while exploring the city. Enjoy your visit to Kaesong!

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