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Tourist guide - what to see and what to do in Korea
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LIST | CELEBRATED MOUNTAINS | BUDDHIST TEMPLES | CULTURAL SITES | BEACHES | SPORT OPPORTUNITIES | KOREAN WAR SITES | LUXURY EXPERIENCE
There is no any other country in the world similar to North Korea which is sometimes referred as a “hermit country” because not that much is known about this unique nation. At the same time Koreans have continuously lived in Korean Peninsula for thousands of years and have developed rich culture and tradition. We would like to introduce a few places in North Korea where you can go to experience history, culture and people of this country.
of Korea
(Yellow Sea)
of Korea
(Sea of Japan)
Pearl of the Russian Far East
Vladivostok can serve as your base for a journey in Russia, North Korea, South Korea or Japan. It is the final station at Trans-Siberian Railway, 9288km from Moscow. From Vladivostok you can take Eastern Dream ferry to Donghae, South Korea and futher to Sakaiminato, Japan
Capital of the Republic of Korea
Seoul has been a capital of Korea since 14th century. Seoul has more than 10 million inhabitants who never sleep. The Seoul Capital Area contains five UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Changdeok Palace, Hwaseong Fortress, Jongmyo Shrine, Namhansanseong and the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty.
Hub to South Korea
Incheon is a transport hub to South Korea: country's main airport Incheon is located here, as well as ferry pier for ferries from Dandong (China)
Port city of South Korea
Donghae is well-known for its clean beaches and located in Donghae's vicinity Soeraksan national park featuring one of the most beautiful mountain of South Korea. From Donghae you can take Eastern Dream ferry to Vladivostok(Russia) or Sakaiminato (Japan).
The largest city in Northeastern China
Shenyang can serve as a base for your trip to North Korea, there are 2 weekly flights to Pyongyang. Shenyang sits on Trans-Manchurian Railway connecting Beijing and Moscow, and on railway connecting Beijing and Pyongyang
Ski Capital of Korea
It is one of the best Ski Resorts in Korea. Total of 22 ski slopes of which 12 slopes meets international standard including Aerial and Mogul which officially approved for international competitions. Every year new ski slopes are added or refited
Ancient Capital of Korea
Gyeongju was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla (57 BC – 935 AD) which ruled about two-thirds of the Korean Peninsula between the 7th and 9th centuries. A vast number of archaeological sites and cultural properties from this period remain in the city. Gyeongju is often referred to as "the museum without walls".Among such historical treasures, Seokguram grotto, Bulguksa temple, Gyeongju Historic Areas and Yangdong Folk Village are designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The many major historical sites have helped Gyeongju become one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea.
Korean Hawaii
Jeju Island, also known as the "Island of the Gods" is the Mekka not only for Korean honeymooners but also for foreign newlyweds and tourists. The island contains the natural World Heritage Site Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes.The island offers visitors a wide range of activities: hiking on Halla-san (South Korea's highest peak) or Olle-gil(routes), catching sunrises and sunsets over the ocean, riding horses, or just lying around on the sandy beaches.
Korean San-Francisco
Busan is the second biggest city of South Korea. It is known for its beaches, hot springs, nature reserves and events such as the city's renowned international film festival held each fall. Sighting in Busan can typically be classified into two groups: seashore and interior land sighting. Seashore sightseeing includes such sights as the beach areas, islands, and Hae Ahn Park. While interior land sightseeing includes such sights as downtown Busan, historical ruins and sites, Dongnae Shrine, Busan World Cup Stadium, and Bexco Exhibition and Convention Center. Busan is also the place of important Busan Perimeter Battle (4 Aug - 18 Sep 1950) of the Korean War (1950-53).
From Busan there is a regular ferry to Jeju island and Japan.
Capital of Korean Democracy
Gwangju is the sixth largest city in South Korea and is famous for the annual World Kimchi Culture Festival and Biennales. Gwangju is also known for the Gwangju Massacre of May 18, 1980, in which about 207 students were killed by army forces.
In Korea, Gwangju is also famous for its unique cuisine
Taekwondo Mekka
Muju is known for its Muju Firefly Festival and is considered the most popular tourism area. Muju Firefly Festival is a Korea’s representative environmental festival held on the theme of Firefly, Natural Treasure No. 322, every June.
The Taekwondo Park, the sacred ground for 70 million Taekwondo lovers in 188 countries, was completed in 2013. The park includes Taekwondo Stadium, Exhibition Hall, Experience Hall and Accommodations. Korea Konsult offers special Taekwondo Tour to South Korea.
Sea gate to Japan
Sakaiminato City is a fishery base bearing Sakai Fishing Port which was designated in 1973 as the Special Fish Port. It is about 750 km from Tokyo. SakaiMinato is a home of Mizuki Shigeru - creator of the popular manga Ge Ge Ge no Kitaro.
From Sakaiminato there is a ferry to Donghae, South Korea.
Yanji is the capital
of the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture in China and is one of the starting points for our tours to the Free Economic Zone Rason, and Mt. Chilbo in North Korea. The North Korean border is 2h drive from Yanji
Gateway to Korea
Dandong is a Chinese border city, it faces the North Korean border city Sinuiju located on the other side of River Amnok (Yalu). From Dandong there is a regular ferry to Incheon, South Korea, and daily train to Pyongyang and Beijing.
Capital of the Democratic Peoples' Republic of Korea
"Pyongyang" in Korean means "Flat Land" or "Peaceful Land". The Korean capital is unlike any other on earth. An ideological statement forged in concrete, bronze and marble, is the ultimate Juche metropolis, built almost entirely from scratch following its destruction in the Korean War. Pyongyang offers one of the world's most monumental experiences.The tallest structure in the city is recently completed 330-metre Ryugyong Hotel. This hotel has 105 floors and encloses 361,000 square metres. The population of the city is about 3 million people while in 1938 Pyongyang had a population of 235,000.
Diamond Mountain
Mount Kumgang (or "Kumgansan", in Korean it means "diamond mountain") is one of the 5 celebrated mountains of Korea.
"If I were to die the day after seeing Kumgang, I would have no regrets", said the Chinese Song Dynasty poet Su Shi (1037-1101). This mountainous area was considered sacred by Korean Buddhists for thousand of years.
The main port in the country
Wonsan is the main naval base and port of the DPRK. It is a popular tourist destination. Songdowon park with abundant pine trees has been designated a national sightseeing point.
Songdowon International Children's Union Camp was built beside Songdowon for local and foreign schoolchildren
The best ski resort in the DPRK
Newly opened in January 2014 Masik Ski Resort features everything modern ski resorts do – a hotel (even internet is available) , ski-lifts , ski rentals, and various entertaining facilities. The highest elevation from the base is 1360m. One of four chairlifts will bring you to the summit. Total runs length is about 110 km and the steepest slope is almost 40 degrees. There are 11 multi-level ski runs including two beginner slopes.
The Cold War frontier
DMZ is a strip of land running across the Korean Peninsula that serves as a buffer zone between North and South Korea. The DMZ is a de-facto border barrier, which runs along the 38th parallel north. It was created as part of the Korean Armistice Agreement between North Korea, China, and the United Nations Command forces in 1953.
Old Capital of Korea
From old times it has been called as 'Songak' or 'Songdo' for many evergreen pine trees and fantastic rocks. Kaesong was the capital of Koryo (918-1392), first unified state on the Korean Peninsula. Kaesong is one of the few cities untouched by Korean War (1950/53) and it is a place for several sites included into UNESCO World Heritage List. Kaesong is only 8km away from DMZ - Demilitarized Zone with South Korea
City of the best Makholi
Sariwon is the capital of North Hwanghae Province and is the southern gateway to Pyongyang. The main tourist attractions are Mt. Jongbang, Songbul Temple and other sights and historical remains. Sariwon's city folk street gives an insight of Korea's old folk customs
West Sea Barrage
Nampo is an important industrial base as well as famous port city. Completed in June Juche 75 (1986), West Sea Barrage is the proud achievement of the DPRK. It was built in five years across 8 km section of open sea.
The Chongsan Cooperative farm located on the way from Pyongyang to Nampo is associated with the revolutionary method in agriculture.
Korean Silicon Valley
Pyongsong was formally established in December 1969, once it was only a stop on the P’yŏngyang-Yŏnghŭng rail line. Today it has a population of 285,000. Pyongsong is a scientific and cultural centre, country's Silicon Valley focusing on leading space researches. A number of leading national research organizations are based in Pyongsong such as Space Science Research Institute, State Academy of Sciences, and Pyongsong’s Atomic Energy Research Center
International Friendship Exhibition
Mt.Myohyang is one of the 5 celebrated mountains of Korea. This area offers for tourists not only natural beauty of Mt. Myohyang but also International Friendship Exhibition, historical remains and relics, Ryongmun Cavern and other sights. The International Friendship Exhibition is the collection of gifts to President Kim Il Sung and General Kim Jong Il sent from all over the world.
The home for the biggest theatre in the country
Hamhung is the DPRK's major industrial and port city. It offers a wide selection of historical remains including home of the Li dynasty founder; as well as industrial sights such as Hungnam fertilizing factory etc. Near Hamhung there is famous Majon resort boasting of white-sand beaches, rest homes, camps and convenient sports facilities
The city of iron
Even though Chongjin is the 3rd largest city in the DPRK it is almost never visited by foreigners. Chongjin is an important military and industrial center - there are many heavy industrial complexes, two ports (East and West port) and number of tourist attractions: Pohanng Square with 25-foot bronze statues of great leaders, Chongjin Revolutionary Museum, North Hamgyong Province Theater, electronic library etc.
The most beautiful scenery in Korea
Mt. Paektu is an active volcano on the border between North Korea and China. At 2,750 m, it is the highest mountain of the Changbai and Paektudaegan ranges. It is also the highest mountain on the Korean Peninsula and in northeastern China. The amazing Chon Lake (Heavenly Lake) is located inside the crater. It is the deepest and the coldest crater lake in the world.
Three countries came together
to establish a free economic zone where it is possible for tourists to visit local factories, a market, and even a casino. Rason is situated near the border with both China and Russia and is a warm-water port for both countries. In Tumen river there is a point where the borders of these three countries come together
Seven Hidden Treasuries
Mt. Chilbo is on UNESCO tentative World Heritage Site list.
The mountain takes its name from the legend that it was believed to contain seven treasuries or from the shape of a bride, attired in wedding dress trimmed with seven treasuries. The unspoiled landscape of the Mt. Chilbo is rare to be found; the other thing that entices visitors is the stories and legends associated with the deep valleys, waterfalls and ponds
Strategic city between Korea and China
The North Korean city of Sinuiju lies opposite Dandong with River Amnok in between. It is one of the important passages to entry and exit for goods and people. There are several tourist attractions including remains of the bridge over Amnok river destroyed during the Korean War, history museum, and one of the best kindergartens in the country.
September mountain
It is one of the 5 celebrated mountains of Korea. The name "Kuwol" means "September". Mt.Kuwol is a famous scenic spot to enjoy autumn maple leaves in September
Sino-Korean trade city
The population of the city is estimated to be 236,000. At the beginning of 20th century, it became a strategic port in Sino-Korean trade. It is the only port on the west coast of North Korea that does not freeze over in winter. Haeju has chemical-related enterprises and a cement factory
Sites in the DPR Korea included in UNESCO World Heritage List
There are several places in the DPR Korea included into the UNESCO World Heritage List
- Complex of Koguryo Tombs (included in 2004): group and individual tombs (about 30 tombs) from the later period of the Koguryo Kingdom (3rd century BC to 7th century AD). The tombs, many with beautiful wall paintings, are almost the only remains of this culture.These paintings offer a unique testimony to daily life of this period
- Historic Monuments and Sites in Kaesong (included in 2013): Situated in Kaesong city the site consists of 12 separate components, which together testify to the history and culture of the Koryo Dynasty from the 10th to 14th centuries: Manwoldae, Kaesong Chomsongdae, Kaesong Walls, Kaesong Namdae Gate, Koryo Songgyungwan (now Koryo museum), Sungyang Sowon, Sonjuk Bridge & Phyochung Monuments, Mausoleum of King WangGon
Properties submitted on the Tentative UNESCO World Heritage List:
- Mt. Myohyang and the Relics in and around the Mountain (included in 2000)
- Historical Relics in Pyongyang (included in 2000)
- Mt. Kumgang and the Historical Relics in and around the Mountain (included in 2000)
- Caves in Kujang Area (included in 2000)
- Mt. Chilbo (included in 2000)
Celebrated mountains of both Koreas
Among many mountains Koreans distinguish a few most beatiful destinations which they call "celebrated mountains of Korea":
- Mt.Paektu: the king of all Korean mountains, one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. It is sacred place for all Koreans. The most revolutionary mountain - place of birth of Kim Jong Il
- Mt.Kumgang: "If I were to die the day after seeing Kumgang, I would have no regrets", said the Chinese Song Dynasty poet Su Shi (1037-1101)
- Mt.Myohyang: In 2009 UNESCO designated Mount Myohyang a world biosphere reserve, citing its cultural significance as well as the spectacular cliffs
- Mt.Chilbo: In 2000 UNESCO included Mt.Chilbo into tentative World Heritage List. The name in Korean means "seven treasuries", there are a million stories about the area and the rock formations, which guides happily share with tourists
- Mt.Kuwol: in Korean the name means "September mountain". This mountain is the shy beauty of Korea
- Mt.Seorak: located east of Seoul it is the largest and longest mountain range in Korea. Seorak Mountain boasts an ever-changing landscape of foliage, rocks, valleys, and waterfalls. The variegated landscape, along with the wildlife (around 3,500 native species in all), make this mountain the ‘Most Famous Mountain in South Korea.’
- Mt.Jiri: Jirisan is the second highest mountain in Korea. Thanks to its grandeur and its gently sloping sides, the mountain has affectionately been dubbed ‘Mother’s Mountain.’
- Mt.Halla: located in Jeju-do, the largest volcanic island in Korea. Over the past decade, this subtropical paradise has received three different UNESCO certifications; Recently, the island has been receiving attention as a ‘New7Wonders of Nature.’
The most beautiful Buddhist temples of the DPR Korea
With 1,700 years of Buddhist history, Korea is home to numerous temples scattered around the nation that preserve a rich, ancient heritage of Buddhist culture. Each temple has its own interesting history as well as a variety of Buddhist statues, paintings, pagodas, bells, and other valuable cultural relics.
Korean War (1950-53) history sites
The DPR Korea is full of war memorial places, here the list of the most important and interesting sites:
- Recently renowated Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum in Pyongyang
- DMZ - Demilitarized Zone between Koreas
- Concrete Wall between Koreas erected by South Korea
- Gonjiri Revolutionary Site, near Pyongyang. It was the Korean Peoples' Army supreme HQ during the Korean War 1950/53. It featrures museum and preserved houses of top militay officials of that time
- Jonsung Revolutionary Site, located near Pyongyang TV tower. It was one of the command centers of the Korean War 1950/53
- Guerrillas secret camps in Mt.Paektu
- Sinchon Massacre Museum
- Hardly accessible guerrillas secret camps in Pujon
- Soviet Army monument in Moranbong Park, Pyongyang
- Chinese Volunteers monument, Pyongyang
- Martyrs cemetry, Pyongyang
Cultural activities
The contemporary culture of North Korea is based on traditional Korean culture, but developed since the establishment of North Korea in 1948. Juche's ideology asserts Korea's cultural distinctiveness and creativity as well as the productive powers of the working masses. The most popular cultural activities are:
- Kim Il Sung Prize-winning grand mass gymnastic and artistic performance "Arirang". This performance is included into the Guiness World Records
- Mass Dance on the main Pyongyang Squares
- Circus performance in Pyongyang
- Concert in Pyongyang Philarmony in Moranbong theatre
- Opera in one of the Pyongyang Theatres
- International Flower Exhibition (annually in February and April, sometimes in September and October)
- Pyongyang International Film Festival (PIFF), every two years in September (next one in 2016)
Pleasure grounds, beaches and fun experiences in the DPR Korea
North Korea boasts a range of beautiful beaches, entertaining resorts and pleasure grounds. Here is the list of top destinations:
There are several beaches in Korea:
- Wonsan: tourists can enjoy sea bathing on beaches at Kalma, Songdowon, Sijung, and Lake Sijung
- Mt.Chilbo: there is beautiful beach near home-stay village where tourists can enjoy white-sand beach and amazing scenary
- Rason: it is a popular destination for tourists from China and Russia who come to Rason to enjoy clean water of East-Sea and white-sand beaches
- Hamhung: there are several popular pleasure grounds near Hamhung including one of the best beaches in the country - Majon beach
- Ryonggang mineral hot spa near Nampo
- Kyongsong hot spa near Chongjin
- Sijung Lake mud treatment center near Wonsan
- Kumgangsan hot spa center in Mt.Kumgang
- Changgwang-won Health Complex in Pyongyang (opened in 1981): round-year open-air/indoor swimming pools, health club, sauna, hair saloon
- Pyongyang Rungna Peoples' Pleasure Ground (opened in 2012): Dolphinarium, mini-golf course and a swimming pool
- Pyongyang Munsu Water Park (opened in November 2013)
- Masik Resort (ski/snowboard/ice-skating in winter, resort in summer)
Sport opportunities
In Korea there are several opportunities to play sport:
- Golden Lane bowling center, Pyongyang
- Meari shooting range, Pyongyang (live targets available)
- Masik Ski Resort: ski, ice-skating and snowboard
- Take part in annual International Pyongyang Marathon in April
- Ride rollers in Pyongyang Roller rink
- Join our June cycling tour
- Play golf in Nampo
- Enjoy hiking or trekking in stunning Korean mountains
Casino and luxury experience in North Korea
It is not widely known that the DPR Korea is a popular destination for luxury tourism from China and other countries.
- Emperor Casino and Hotel, in Free Economic Zone Rason: casino run by Macao investor and hotel by Hong Kong company
- Casino at Yanggakdo hotel, Pyongyang
- Mirim Horse Riding Club, Pyongyang
- Play golf near Nampo
- Stay in 5-star hotel Hyansan in Mt.Myohyang: enjoy fitness center, hot spa, pool, massage, and beauty of Mt.Myohyang
- Stay in the best hotel in the country in Majon region, Hamhung
- Enjoy deluxe MasikRyong hotel
Please contact us if you have found any interesting thing to do in Korea - we will be happy to help your dream come true! postmaster@koreakonsult.com