Sariwon Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and explore in Sariwon, North Korea. Follow our week-long itinerary, learn about the local culture and customs, and find out how to get there.


Introduction to Sariwon

Sariwon is a charming city located in the Hwanghae Province of North Korea, in East Asia. It’s famous for its traditional architecture, historic sites, scenic views, and delicious food. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its traditional music and dance performances. Sariwon is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its breathtaking mountains, scenic lakes, and hiking trails.

List of Places to Visit in Sariwon

Sariwon is filled with interesting sites and attractions that cater to both cultural and natural enthusiasts. Below are the top places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hyonmu Gate: A historic city gate dating back to the 17th century, located in the old city center.
  • Sariwon Folklore Street: A traditional street lined with restaurants, shops, and old-style buildings.
  • Koryo Museum: A history museum located in the former office of the Joseon Dynasty.
  • Tomb of King Wongnyong: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and tomb of the founder of the Goryeo Dynasty.

Natural Attractions of Sariwon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Kyongnam: A 5,347-foot mountain known for its breathtaking views and hiking trails.
  • Lake Samil: A picturesque lake with a peaceful atmosphere, especially during the autumn season.
  • Dochon Hill: A small hill with a scenic view of Sariwon’s countryside, with sporadic historical artifacts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sariwon

Sariwon is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Below are some of the best routes in the region:

  • Mount Kyongnam Hike: A challenging 6-hour hike up to the summit of Mount Kyongnam, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the city.
  • Sariwon Bike Tour: A 3-hour leisurely bike tour of Sariwon’s most scenic attractions.
  • Lake Samil Hike: A gentle 2-hour hike around the picturesque Lake Samil.

Best Things to Do in Sariwon: Activities and Tours

From cultural performances to outdoor adventures, Sariwon has something for every type of traveler. Below are some of the best things to do and tours to take in the city:

  • Traditional Music and Dance Performances: Watch traditional Korean performances at the Sariwon Folklore Theater.
  • Spas and Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in the mineral hot springs located in the vicinity of Sariwon.
  • Visits to Local Farms: Take a tour of a traditional Korean farm, and learn about the agricultural practices of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sariwon

Sariwon can be explored in around a week, with plenty of time to see the city’s top attractions and explore the surrounding areas. Below is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Sariwon:

Day 1 Arrive in Sariwon, check-in to local accommodations, and explore the city center.
Day 2 Visit the Tomb of King Wongnyong and Koryo Museum, followed by a night-time traditional performance.
Day 3 Hike up Mount Kyongnam and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
Day 4 Relax in the mineral hot springs or take a bike tour of the city.
Day 5 Visit the Dochon Hill and spend the afternoon at Lake Samil.
Day 6 Tour a local farm and watch a traditional music and dance performance.
Day 7 Depart Sariwon and head to nearby destinations like Pyongyang.

Food and Drink Scene of Sariwon

Sariwon is known for its delicious food and drink scene, with a wide range of traditional dishes and beverages to try. Below are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sariwon Naengmyeon: A cold buckwheat noodle dish that’s perfect for hot summer days.
  • Rice Cake Soup: A filling meal made with chewy rice cakes and assorted meats and vegetables.
  • Eel and Vegetables: Grilled eel served with sautéed vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Rice Wine: A sweet, low-alcohol beverage made from fermented rice.
  • Soju: A clear, distilled spirit that’s similar to vodka.
  • Makgeolli: A cloudy, unpasteurized rice wine with low alcohol content.

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

Sariwon has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Below are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Sariwon Hotel: A luxurious hotel with beautiful gardens and an on-site restaurant.
  • Sariwon Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse with clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Dongbang Hostel: A centrally-located hostel with affordable dormitory and private room options.

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

Sariwon is known for its traditional crafts and handmade products, which make excellent souvenirs to bring home. Some of the must-buy items include:

  • Pottery and Ceramics: Beautiful handmade pottery and ceramics are available at local markets and gift shops.
  • Kimchi: A popular Korean fermented cabbage dish that’s sold in jars and is great for preserving memories of Sariwon.
  • Traditional Clothing: Hanbok, the traditional Korean clothing, is widely available in Sariwon’s markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Sariwon

Sariwon has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are expected to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some of the customs to be mindful of include:

  • Covered Dress Code: Women are expected to cover their shoulders and not wear short skirts, and men are not allowed to wear shorts in public.
  • Respect for Elders: Elders are treated with great respect in Korean culture.
  • Bow Greetings: A slight bow is a respectful and courteous way to greet someone.

Best Time to Visit Sariwon

The best time to visit Sariwon is during the autumn season, from September to November. The weather is pleasantly cool and the landscape is colorful with leaves turning from green to gold. Springtime, March to May, is also a great time to visit, with cherry blossom trees adding splash of pink and white blooms all around the city. The summer season, from June to August, can be hot and humid while winter, from December to February, can be extremely cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sariwon

Below are some of the dos and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Sariwon:

Do:

  • Do follow the dress code and local customs.
  • Do give and receive items with two hands, especially if it’s food or a gift.
  • Do respect personal space and privacy.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs or record videos without permission.
  • Don’t show public displays of affection.
  • Don’t touch or pat someone’s head, as it is considered rude.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sariwon

Sariwon is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and a friendly population. However, visitors should use common sense and take precautions, such as not walking alone at night and staying alert in crowded areas.

Health in Sariwon

Healthcare Facilities are available all around Sariwon, with the most prominent one being Sariwon Clinic. Visitors should make sure to bring any necessary medication or prescription, and it’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers any medical emergencies.

Getting to Sariwon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sariwon can be accessed through several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Sariwon

  • Pyongyang International Airport: Located 80 kilometers from Sariwon.

Train Stations Near Sariwon

  • Sariwon Train Station: The main station located in the heart of the city.

Bus Stations Near Sariwon

  • Central Bus Station: A convenient way to travel between cities in North Korea.
  • Sariwon Bus Station: Buses to other cities of Hwanghae Province are available from here.

How to Get Around in Sariwon

Sariwon has a reliable network of taxis and buses to help visitors get around. It’s also possible to rent a car with a driver for a more personalized experience.

Where to Go Next from Sariwon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sariwon is well-connected to other attractions in North Korea, making it a great starting point for exploring the region. Some of the nearby destinations to see include:

  • Pyongyang: The capital city of North Korea, located 90 kilometers from Sariwon.
  • Nampo: A coastal city known for its seafood and beaches, located 160 kilometers from Sariwon.

Conclusion

Sariwon is a beautiful and calming destination located in the heart of North Korea. It’s filled with interesting sites, delicious food, and beautiful scenery, making it the perfect place to indulge in Korean culture and traditions. Whether you’re interested in exploring its museums and historical attractions, going on outdoor adventures or simply relaxing in spas, Sariwon has something to offer for every type of traveler.

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