Kaesong 개성|City sketch
Located in the west-central part of the peninsula, Kaesong is a special city in North Korea with a long history and beautiful scenery. Because of the lush pine trees since ancient times, it is also known as "Pine Capital". During the Goryeo era, it was the capital for nearly 500 years, so it was also called "Kaijing". After the capital was moved to Seoul (present-day Seoul), it became an important town in Gyeonggi Province. After the liberation of Korea from Japanese colonial rule, Kaesong was originally under the jurisdiction of South Korea, but it was occupied by North Korea during the Korean War. After the partition of the North and the South, Kaesong became a border city of North Korea, so it was also called the "newly liberated area". Kaesong is now the center of light industry in North Korea, and there is the Kaesong Industrial Park, where the two Koreas cooperate, and there are many garment processing factories. The Kaesong Industrial Complex, an economic project undertaken after the first inter-Korean summit in 2000, is a barometer of the situation on the Korean Peninsula. In February 2016, due to sanctions and counter-sanctions, the industrial park project was completely interrupted and became a military restricted area.
Kaesong people Jie Diling, many Chinese audiences know Huang Zhenyi is a Kaesong person. Kaesong specialties are Korean ginseng and Korean celadon. As the capital of hundreds of years, Kaesong also has many ancient court foods, the most distinctive of which are the rice bed ware and the fairy stove. In addition, there are many monuments in Kaesong. The Kaesong Historic Site Area consists of 12 separate monuments, including Full Moon Terrace, Jin Seungdae, Kaesong Namdaemun, Sungkyunkwan, King Wang's Mausoleum, and King Gongchou's Mausoleum, and was inscribed on the World Cultural Heritage List in 2013. Of course, for travelers, the most anticipated thing is Panmunjom. At the site known in North Korea as the concrete wall, you can hear the sound of South Korean propaganda shouting in the distance. In short, it is a city where you can not only understand the history and culture of North Korea, but also witness the tragedy of national division.
Kaesong 개성|attractions
板门店 Panmunjom
For travelers, Panmunjom is almost a calling card of Kaesong and is one of the must-see attractions in North Korea. Panmunjom is located about 8 kilometers southeast of Kaecheng city center, a small place that was unknown before the Korean War, and was world-famous for the signing of the Korean War Armistice Agreement here.
There are attractions such as the Korean War Armistice Negotiation Ground, the Armistice Agreement Signing Ground, the Reunification Pavilion, the Kim Il Sung Monument, and the world's highest flag.
Admission: $20
Panmunjom area main entrance
Arriving at Panmunjom, you will unconsciously feel the tension on the front line. Not to mention the checkpoints along the way, all of them had to get out of the car and be inspected after they arrived. Fortunately, there is also a souvenir shop in the courtyard, which dilutes the atmosphere of slaughter. When entering Panmunjom, there will be local soldiers who will explain and supervise, and usually the first words of the soldiers in charge of explaining are: "This is not a tourist place, but a battlefield." ”
The "tallest" flag tower
On the drive to the military demarcation line, you can see the "tallest" flag tower in the world hanging from the car window. This stems from the boyish contest between the two sides in the early days of separation, and whose flag was higher than whose flag was hoisted. In the end, the North Korean side won the contest with 158 meters.
The place where the armistice agreement was negotiated and signed
On the way to the military demarcation line, you will get off at a courtyard for a tour. The grounds are where the armistice agreement was negotiated and signed, and where the negotiations that made the Panmunjom area famous were held, and tables, chairs, flags, and documents from that time are preserved in the courtyard.
Kim Il Sung inscription monument
Upon arrival at the military zone, the center of the area is the signature monument of Kim Il Sung. The stele bears the signature of a document signed the day before Kim Il Sung's death. Because the content of the document is about the issue of unification, it is erected in Panmunjom. The stele is 9.4 meters long and 7.7 meters high, symbolizing this masterpiece on July 7, 94.
Unification Pavilion 통일각
It is generally closed to the outside world, and many of the political, military and other contacts or negotiations seen in the news between the two Koreas are conducted here.
板门阁 Panmungak
Located in the garrison area, close to the military demarcation line, you can overlook the Korean soldiers and US troops stationed in Korea on the opposite Freedom House, which is the best shooting location.
Military demarcation line DMZ
There are 7 buildings similar to panel houses on the military demarcation line, of which the blue is managed by the DPRK and the white is managed by the United States and South Korea, and if you are lucky, you can enter the interior to visit. The hut connects the two Koreas and is the meeting place of the Armistice Commission. North Korean guards stand guard at the entrance to the South Korean side to prevent tourists from crossing the border. There is a conference table inside the room, and theoretically, when you step over the middle table, you have entered Korean territory.
Concrete barriers
North Korea says the concrete barrier is a military installation built by South Korean separatist forces on the demilitarized zone cordon between 1976 and 1979. The barrier is 240 km long and 5-8 m high, with bunkers and iron gates at various points. Propaganda shouts from South Korea can be faintly heard here. Military guides will duly despise these "American puppets".
All in all, Panmunjom is a unique attraction in the world. It is the most sensitive frontline between the two Koreas, dividing a nation into two states and a symbol of separatism. There are also many bizarre stories that have happened in Panmunjom, and it is even more interesting to visit Panmunjom after getting to know them.
Kobiyama 자남산
Located in the center of Kaicheng, there is a conspicuous bronze statue of Kim Il Sung on the mountain.
Kaesong Namdaemun 남대문
The ancient gate of Kaesong is now a roundabout, like most cities. The large clock on the city gate is a North Korean name clock with bullet holes left during the Korean War.
高丽成均馆 Koryo Sungkyunkwan
Sungkyunkwan is the highest institution of learning in ancient Korea, equivalent to the Guozijian on the mainland. Both North and South Korea have Sungkyunkwan, while South Korea's is more famous. But in fact, the earliest Sungkyunkwan was in Kaesong, North Korea. The current Kaesong Sungkyunkwan is a museum with more than 1,000 historical relics and a ginkgo tree that is more than 1,000 years old.
Full moon platform 만월대
The ruins of the royal palace of the Goryeo period, located at the southern foot of Songaksan Mountain, are part of the Kaesong Historic Sites Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kaesong Full Moon Deck excavation project is a representative social and cultural exchange project between the two Koreas.
瞻星台 Cheomseongdae
An astronomical and meteorological observatory during the Goryeo period.
王建王陵 왕건왕릉
The mausoleum of Wang Jian, the founder of the Goryeo Dynasty, located at the foot of Songak Mountain, was rebuilt in 1994. Inside the mausoleum is the "Monument to the Reconstruction of King Taejo of Goryeo" inscribed by Kim Il Sung.
朴渊瀑布 Park Yeon Falls
Park Yeon Waterfall is one of the three most famous waterfalls in North Korea. Park Yeon Waterfall (beautiful scenery), Hwang Jin-yi (poet named prostitute) and Seo Kyung-deok (philosopher) are known as the three masters of Songdu.
Kaesong Volunteer Martyrs' Cemetery
Located at the foot of Mount Matsugaku, there are 24 martyrs' tombs on 4 floors, where 15,236 martyrs are buried. In 1975, North Korea buried the remains of volunteer martyrs from various locations near Kaesong.
Kaesong 개성|Dining Accommodation Shopping Transportation
Catering
Kaesong Folk Hostel 개성민속려관
You can sit in the classical Korean courtyard or sit on the floor in your room and enjoy the classical Korean gaya performance while enjoying Kaesong's famous rice bed set. There are rockeries, flowing water, and bridges in the hotel, so you can take photos after eating, which is a special style. The so-called rice bed utensil is actually a set of utensils when setting the table, usually a small copper bowl with a lid. The number of set meals is generally odd, ranging from 5 to 11 dishes. The dishes are colorful and look very good after a special arrangement, which makes people feel very excited. In addition, not always a gaya performance is offered, and in North Korea, it always takes some luck to encounter such a bonus project. There is usually no charge for the gaya performance, but it's best to buy something at the on-site souvenir shop or tip a little directly.
Consumption per capita: $20
Unification Hall 통일관
In the city center, traditional Korean dishes are specialized, featuring rice bed utensils, ginseng chicken soup and medicated rice. If the tour group is crowded, order a meal and set up a large table is spectacular.
Consumption per capita: $15
Zioshan Hotel 자남산호텔
Korean food, nothing obvious.
Consumption per capita: $15
lodging
Generally speaking, Kaesong tours are from Pyongyang, and they will not stay in Kaesong on the same day. Because apart from Pyongyang, conditions elsewhere are really limited.
Kaesong Folk Hotel (Level 2)
A more distinctive hotel, similar to a movie filming location, is an antique bungalow, converted from a Korean-style house built in the Yi Dynasty era (1392-1910), in average conditions, but more comfortable, suitable for photography. Many Korean visitors stay here.
Zio Shan Hotel (Level 2)
At the foot of Zio Mountain, there are 4 floors.
Shopping
Panmunjom store
The shop at the gate of the Panmunjom area is probably the closest souvenir shop in the world to the battlefield. Most of the goods are souvenirs and souvenirs.
traffic
Because of Kaesong's sensitive location and the large number of military areas, travelers can hardly only take a special bus to visit. It takes about 2 hours by bus from Pyongyang to Kaesong. You can also choose to fly to Kaesong in Pyongyang, but there are no scheduled flights yet, so if you wish to travel by plane, you need to contact your travel agent in advance to book your ticket.
妙香山 Myohyang Mountain
City sketches
Myohyangsan is a famous mountain in North Korea, originally named Taebaeksan, later renamed Myohyangsan Mountain, also referred to as Fragrant Mountain. Myohyangsan is located in northwestern North Korea, at the junction of North Pyongan Province, South Pyongan Province, and Cigang Province in North Korea, but most of it is in Hyangsan-gun in North Pyongan Province. Despite the beautiful scenery, for travelers, the guide does not come to climb the mountain, but to worship the "golden sun". In addition, Myohyangsan has a specialty cold-water fish rainbow trout (칠색송 어), which is delicious.
traffic
Myohyang Mountain is not a city, so there is no other public transport system, and you can only take travel buses for intercity and inter-attraction transportation. It takes about 2 hours by bus from Pyongyang to Myohyangsan Mountain. There is also the option to fly. There are charter flights from Pyongyang to Hyangsan-eup (향산읍). The charter flight cost a round trip by Soviet-Mi-17 helicopter (capacity 11 passengers) is 2,500 euros. If there are enough people, the price is not unacceptably expensive. Of course, after arriving, you still need a shuttle bus to reach the scenic area from Xiangshan-eup.
Attractions
妙香山 Myohyang Mountain
The main peak of Miaoxiang Mountain is Pilu Peak, 1909 meters above sea level, which is divided into Shangyuan Cave, Wanpu Cave, Qianjing Cave, Qixing Cave and Pilu Peak and other scenic spots. Shangyuan Cave, Wanpu Cave, and Pilu Peak have wonderful scenery and can be used as a mountaineering route. Among them, the Sangwondong route is the shortest, and most tour groups will choose this route, which has beautiful scenery, countless waterfalls, and rosin fragrance. The Wanpu Cave route shows waterfalls, clear pools and strange rocks of different shapes. Pilu Peak is the most precipitous, and you can climb the highest peak of Myoxiang Mountain.
International Friendship Exhibition Hall 국제친선전람관
This is an exhibition hall that displays gifts given to Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il by political parties, dignitaries, celebrities, and people from all walks of life from all over the world. It is divided into Kim Il-sung Hall and Kim Jong-il Hall, which are two Korean-style buildings. Inside the building, there is also an exhibition hall of Kim Jong-sung's wife, Kim Jong-suk, and the newly opened Kim Jong-un exhibition hall, which can be said to be a family museum. The quality of the exhibits in the collection varies greatly, and there are both genuine peerless treasures and some indiscriminate existence. Foreign tourists visiting also need to bow to the statue of the "great man" inside.
Entrance fee: 10 euros
普贤寺 Bohyunsa Temple
Ming Sha of Joseon, founded in 1042, is the center of Buddhism in northern Korea. Badly damaged during the Korean War, it is now a restored building. The temple has attractions such as the "80,000 Tripitaka" scripture library and the octagonal thirteen-story pagoda.
龙门大窟 Longmundaegul
Located around Myohyang Mountain, it is an underground limestone cave about 6 kilometers deep, and there are stalactites and stalagmites in different shapes underground, which is a rare landscape. Also, even more exciting than the view is the commentary of the local guide.
Catering
Fragrant Mountain Guest House 향산호텔
Lunch is usually served here, and the grilled meat, rainbow trout, and matsutake mushrooms taste good.
lodging
Fragshan Hotel (Special Class) 향산호텔
The pyramid-shaped building with 15 floors is located on the banks of the Myoka River and has a beautiful scenery. Many heavyweight Koreans stay here when they visit North Korea.
Shopping
International Friendship Exhibition Hall Shop
A typical souvenir shop where you can buy some Miaoxiangshan specialties. But in fact, there are no particularly famous specialties, mostly some mountain goods.
Wonsan King Kong Mountain Tourism Belt
Area sketch
The Wonsan Mount Kumgang Tourism Belt is located in the eastern coastal area of North Korea, which is a tourist zone that North Korea has focused on developing in recent years, divided into six areas: Wonsan, Mount Kumgang, Tongcheon, Shiwangsa Temple, Masilyeong Ski Resort and Unrim Waterfall. The North Korean government is committed to turning Wonsan into a well-known international tourist city, rebuilding a new airport in Wonsan and opening regular air routes. Wonsan Jingangshan Tourist Area integrates lakes and mountains and seascapes, because there is no overdevelopment, and the scenery is unique.
Wonsan (원산) is the capital of Gangwon Province in North Korea and is a natural harbor. In 1880, the port was opened by the Japanese army that invaded the Korean Peninsula, and after 1914, due to the penetration of the railway, it gradually developed into an important trading port on the east coast of Korea. Wonsan originally belonged to South Hamgyong Province, but because there were no large cities in the area of Gangwon Province (which also has Gangwon Province in South Korea), which was controlled by North Korea, Wonsan was transferred from South Hamgyong Province to Gangwon Province in North Korea and became the capital. Wonsan was once an important port for communication between North Korea and Japan. However, with Japanese sanctions against North Korea, direct passenger and cargo flights between the two countries were interrupted. In addition to the good port, Wonsan also has beautiful white sand beaches. In addition, Wonsan's seafood is also very delicious, and you can eat seafood barbecue in summer.
Mount Kumgang (금강산) is the first mountain in North Korea with an altitude of 1638 meters, second only to Baekdusan (Changbaisan) on the Sino-Korean border, and is the second highest mountain in North Korea. Mount Kumgang is less than 50 km from Sokcho, Gangwon-do, South Korea. Because it is close to South Korea, there will be many military facilities on the road to Mount Kumgang. The Kumgang Mountain View Area may be the only place in North Korea that is not "North Korean", and the decoration style is full of Korean flavor. This is because the South Korean Hyundai Group signed an agreement with the DPRK to obtain a 50-year monopoly and invested hundreds of millions of dollars in construction, thus turning the Mount Kumgang area into a South Korean "enclave" in North Korea.
In the decade 1998-2008, Mount Kumgang attracted nearly 2 million South Korean tourists and became a meeting place for separated families of the two Koreas and was used as a bridge for inter-Korean exchanges. However, in July 2008, a South Korean female tourist was shot dead by North Korean sentinels, and the exchange between the two Koreas on Mount Kumgang was abandoned, and Mount Kumgang no longer prospered as a tourist area. To this day, Mount Kumgang remains a shelved issue between the two Koreas. Mount Kumgang has beautiful scenery and different scenery in each season, but due to restrictions, winter is not very suitable for sightseeing. The specialties of Mount Kumgang are honey, pine pollen and some unnamed wild vegetables. If you have time, you can also experience the hot springs of Mount Kumgang.
traffic
Because the area around Mount Kumgang in Wonsan is close to the coast and closer to South Korea, you can see a lot of barbed wire along the way, and there are more military zones. Travelers usually travel by bus provided by travel agencies, and it takes about 4 hours to reach Wonsan from Pyongyang. Now that the new airport, Gema (갈마) Airport, has been expanded near Wonsan, and new routes will be opened, with the option to fly to Wonsan in Pyongyang.
Attractions
松涛园 Songdowon
Named for its pine forests and crashing waves, it is a scenic spot on North Korea's east coast, with vast white sand beaches and dense pine forests. Songtaoyuan International Summer Camp (송도원 국제소년단 야영소) welcomes junior high school students from all over the world from April to October every year, and is the largest and most fun summer camp in North Korea. Songtao Garden Summer Camp generally lasts 12 days, including water sports, camping and program performances. There are generally more foreign teenagers in July and August, mostly from Russia and some African countries.
万景峰号 Mankyongbong Lake
The Mangyeong-bong was once the only passenger and cargo ship serving direct passenger routes between Korea and Japan, running between Wonsan and Niigata. However, due to North Korea's missile test in 06, Japan began to sanction North Korea, banning the passage of North Korean ships between the two countries and interrupting direct passenger and cargo flights between the two countries. The ship Wanjingbong, which carries exchanges between the two countries, can only stop quietly in Wonsan Port.
新坪 Shinpyeong
Located in the middle of the Pyongyang-Wonsan tourist road, it is a scenic rest stop. The scenery here is formed by the artificial lake formed by the construction of small hydropower plants and the surrounding mountains, also known as Little Kongo Mountain or Xinping Kongo. If you have time, you can fish in the local area and cook with loot at a nearby restaurant.
马息岭 Masikryeong
Located between Xinpyeong and Wonsan, it is named because of the steep mountain, and it is said that the horses passing by need to rest here. Construction began in 2012, and the Masilyeong Ski Resort (마식령 스키장) was built here. If it's not the ski season, you can also come to climb the mountain. There is also a Masiling Hotel and a helipad.
Sainakako 시중호
Located near Tongcheon (통천) Gun, the lagoon takes its name from a pavilion called "Saichu-tei" by the lake. Located 50 kilometers from Wonsan and 60 kilometers from Mount Kumgang, Sagchu Lake can be said to be the center of both places, so it also serves as a rest stop. Generally, when taking a bus to Mount Kumgang, you will definitely pass by and stop. A road in the middle of the lake divides the two sides into a lake and a sea, and the scenery is very beautiful. The water of the lake is clear, and there are often migratory birds that are difficult to see in the country. In addition, you can also take a mud bath, which is rich in minerals and is said to be effective for chronic cholecystitis, chronic pharyngitis, neuralgia, etc.
Mount Kumgang 금강산
Mount Kumgang has four distinct seasons and beautiful scenery, so each season has a different name. Spring is like a beautiful gem called Mount Kongo; In summer, the clouds and mountains are foggy, called Penglai Mountain; In autumn, the layer of forest is full of dye, called Mount Fengdake; In winter, it is snowy and called Mt. Jiku. There are mountains outside Mount Kong, and there are peaks outside the peak, which are generally divided into three parts: outer King Kong, inner King Kong, and sea King Kong. Outer Kongang is the center of tourism on Mount Kumgang and the most commonly used climbing route. Kowloon Yeon is the most beautiful place in Waekgang, with the famous Kowloon Waterfall in North Korea. Haekumang consists of a lake and the sea, and Samilpo (삼일포) is the most scenic of Haekingang. Legend has it that once upon a time a king came to visit and planned to go back in one day, but he was drunk by the scenery and lingered for three days, hence the name. In addition, it is also worth seeing the cluster stone pavilion of Hai Jingang, which is a group of stone pillars about one kilometer along the coast formed by cooling after a volcanic eruption, and the landscape is unique. Inner Kongo is located in the southwest of Mount Kongo, and the attractions are mostly canyons. Compared with the exterior gang, the inner King Kong looks elegant and beautiful. There are also many Buddhist and Taoist monuments inside the inner Kongo.
The central area of Mount Kumgang is Onjingri (온정리), where there are hotels, restaurants, shops, banks, cultural halls, and other places. However, because the number of tourists is no longer the same as in the past, banks, cultural halls and other places have been locked. Most of the hotels that were originally built in the vicinity in South Korea are now unused.
In addition, due to the poor signal in the mountainous area, North Korea's mobile phone had no signal almost the entire time during Mount Kumgang.
Shangganling
Shangganling is located in the territory of Jinhua County, southwest of Mount Kumgang, and is not open to travel because it is too close to South Korea and is still a military powerhouse.
Catering
Shinpyeong Rest House 신평휴게소
Rest place from Pyongyang to Wonsan, some light meals are available.
马息岭饭店 Masikryeong Hotel
Located between Xinpyeong and Wonsan, the facilities are relatively luxurious, providing a variety of dining and beverages.
侍中阁 Viewing angle
A rest place from Wonsan to Mount Kumgang.
松涛园饭店 Songdowon Restaurant
Wonsan is 11 stories high.
东明饭店 Dongmyeong Hotel
Located on the Wonsan coast, next to Songtaoyuan Hotel. The fish soup and seafood taste good.
lodging
Ma Xiling Hotel (Premium)
The supporting hotel for Masilyeong Ski Resort is one of the few special hotels in North Korea with luxurious facilities and is a symbol of the Joseon Era. The in-house service facilities are complete.
King Kong Mountain Hotel (Level 1) 금강산호텔
Located in the center of Waigang Onjingli, it is the hotel that receives the most tourists on Mount Kumgang . The interior facilities are all traditional style, so be careful to prepare power adapters, which can also be borrowed in the lobby. The hotel can make international calls, send and receive e-mail, etc.
In addition, there are also hotels such as Dongming Hotel and Songtao Garden in the area.
experience
Mount Kumgang Onsen 금강산온천
Korean-style hot springs with internal facilities developed directly from Korea, are said to be rich in rare minerals and cure diseases.
Admission: $10
马息岭滑雪 Masikryeong Ski Resort
The ski resort is a symbol of the Joseon Dynasty, and the resulting "Masilyeong Speed" calls on the whole country to learn. The ski resort has 11 runs for players of all levels to choose from. The ski resort has cable cars, elevators, snowmobiles, and more to help visitors reach the top. The ski resort can rent a full set of equipment, and the equipment rental plus the cost of skiing is about 200 yuan a day.
Shopping
Mount Kumgang Exhibition Hall
Inside, there are souvenirs from the Mount Kumgang area, cosmetics, and Korean paintings, but most of the goods can be bought in Pyongyang.
Baekdusan area
Area sketch
Baekdu Mountain (백두산), known as Changbai Mountain on the mainland, is 2,750 meters high and is the highest mountain on the Korean Peninsula. Baekdusan is still a sacred place in Korea and is considered the origin of the Korean nation. In addition, the founder of North Korea, Kim Il Sung, once carried out anti-Japanese guerrilla attacks here, and the second leader Kim Jong-il is believed to have been born here by North Korea (some foreign documents believe that his birthplace is Boli), so now North Korea has always emphasized the Baekdusan bloodline, and the North Korean leader's family is also known as the great man of Baekdusan.
There are many revolutionary historical sites related to Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il in the Baekdusan area, and the whole area focuses on "red" tourism. Many cultural and sports teams in North Korea are named after the revolutionary deeds of the Baekdusan area, such as the Little White Water Football Team, the Leemyeongsu Football Team, the Cheongbong Orchestra, the Pucheonbao Electronic Orchestra, and the Wang Jaeshan Light Music Troupe.
traffic
There are bus and plane ways to get to Baekdu Mountain from Pyongyang. Due to the long distance, air travel is usually arranged to arrive at Samjiyon (삼지연) Airport, and a tourist bus will be arranged when arriving locally.
Attractions
白头山密营 Baekdusan Milyoung
Secret Camp No. 1, where the headquarters of the Korean People's Revolutionary Army was stationed, is said to be the birthplace of Kim Jong-il, and there are items used by Kim Jong-il in the former residence.
Jeongil Peak 정일봉
Jeongil Peak is located next to the small baekshui (소백수) in Miyeong, Baekdu Mountain, at an altitude of 1798 meters. Looking up from the former residence of Baekdu Mountain, you can see the words "Zhengri Peak" on the mountain. At the foot of the mountain, there is an ode written by Kim Il Sung on the occasion of his 50th birthday: "The peak of Mount Baekdu is the peak of Jeongil, and the small white water river is a blue stream." The fifty weeks after the birth of the light star, all praised Wen Wu for his loyalty and filial piety. All the people praised and cheered together, and the cheers shook the heavens and the earth. ”
三池渊 Samjiyon
The lakes formed by the volcanic movement of Baekdu Mountain originally had 7 large and small lakes, but several of them became swamps, leaving only 3 lakes, hence the name Sanikeyuan. Backed by Changbai Mountain, Samjiyon has monuments and statues commemorating Kim Il Sung's anti-Japanese achievements. North Korea's self-developed "Samjiyon tablet" is named after this.
鲤明水 Li Myung-so
Kiemyeongsu is a waterfall where there are historical sites permeated with the deeds of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il in Kim Myeongsuk, the most famous being the campsite of Qingbong (청봉).
Hyeshan 혜산
The capital of Ryanggang Province in North Korea, across the Yalu River from Changbai County in China, it is named after the "blessing of the mountains". At 715 meters above sea level, it is the highest city in North Korea and has some Korean historical sites in the city.
普天堡 Bocheonbo
Located 21 kilometers from Hyesan, Pucheon County was the site of Kim Il-sung's first victorious battle against the Japanese, and the battle was seen as the dawn of Korean liberation. The Battle of Putianbao Victory Memorial Tower is located in the center of Hyeshan.
会宁 Retreat
North Hamgyong North Province, North Korea, a city along the Dooman River (두만강, that is, the Tumen River), across the river from Jilin Province, is the birthplace of the "anti-Japanese heroine" Kim Jong-sook (Kim Il Sung's wife), with Kim Jong-suk's former residence and revolutionary memorial hall.
王Jae-san 왕재산
Located 4 kilometers north of Jeonseong-eup in northern North Korea, there are five low peaks, the highest of which is Mount Wangjae. Kim Il Sung once held a conference here to set off a national revolution. There is a large monument and a revolutionary museum built near Wang Zai Mountain.
中江 중강
Located on the banks of the Yalu River in northern Cigang-do, the county is mainly a memorial site for the revolutionary activities of Kim Hyung-ji (Kim Il-sung's father), the "outstanding leader of the Korean anti-Japanese national liberation movement", and the young Kim Il Sung.
Other cities
南浦 Nampo
Nanpo is a port city near Pyongyang, the status of Tianjin. Nanpu was originally a small fishing village, and after the Sino-Japanese War, it became a logistics base of the Japanese army and was renamed the town of Nanpu, later called Nanpu. It is an important port in North Korea, accounting for a large proportion of freight, passenger and foreign transportation. In addition, Nampo's industry is also relatively developed in North Korea. During the seafood season, fishing boats waiting for the catch in Nanpu Port can buy the freshest seafood and directly process it. Clams, skin shrimp, etc. are delicious and affordable. Nampo is very close to Pyongyang and usually takes about 1 hour each way by bus.
Attractions
西海海闸 서해갑문
Completed in 1986, the West Sea Gate was built to intercept the sea, and after its construction, many artificial lakes were formed inland, ensuring irrigation, industry and drinking water for nearby residents. The Seohsluice Gate is the pride of North Korea, and there is a memorial tower commemorating the construction of the Seonhai Gate on nearby Phi Island, which offers a bird's-eye view of the entire sluice. But beware, watching a documentary in the memorial tower costs money.
苔城湖 Tae Seong-ho
Taeseong Lake is an artificial lake on the way from Nampo to Pyongyang, and there is North Korea's only golf course, Pyongyang Golf Course (평양골프장). The course has 18 holes, professional caddies, scooters, etc., and a set lunch is available. Many North Koreans choose to shoot short films here when they get married.
September Mountain 구월산
Located on the central and western coast of the Korean Peninsula, September Mountain is a famous mountain in Korea, because every September, the mountain is full of red and is named September Mountain. The scenery here is beautiful, and there are historical sites such as the Buddhist Moon Seiji Temple, the Three Sacred Shrines dedicated to Tanjun, and the former royal tomb of Goguryeo. To reach Mount September from Pyongyang, you need to take a bus, or take a bus after arriving in Haeju.
Haeju 해주
Haeju is located on the west coast of North Korea, is the capital of South Hwanghae Province, facing the sea in the south and Shouyang Mountain in the north, so named for its seaside. Haizhou's industry and commerce are relatively developed in North Korea, and it is a seafood distribution center in North Korea and an important maritime trade port with China. In the city, there is the only pavilion in ancient Korea, the Furong-do, which was destroyed during the Korean War and is still a restored building. Shouyang Mountain (수양산) to the north of the city is also a scenic spot, with an ancient military facility Shouyang Mountain Castle built on the mountain, and Shouyang Waterfall (수양폭포) flowing. Haizhou pears are a local specialty. In addition, because it is close to the sea, the seafood is also fresh.
Because of its proximity to South Korea, the Haeju area changed hands several times during the Korean War. Therefore, there are many important class education museums in North Korea, which display the slaughter of civilians and the use of biological and chemical weapons and other war crimes against human rights during the US military's war. One of the most famous is the Shincheon Museum located in Shincheon (신천) County. From Pyongyang to Haiju, you can take a bus or plane.
安州 Anju
A city in the northwest of South Pyeongan Province, straddling both banks of the Cheongcheon River (청천강), has a long history. Because it is located in the plain and the water source is clear, the standard of living here has been relatively high since ancient times, so it was named Anzhou. The word "An" in Heian Road is taken from Anzhou. There are some monuments of Goguryeo, Goryeo and the Yi Dynasty in the city, most of which were destroyed during the war and are now restored and rebuilt.
Anju is a transportation artery connecting Pyongyang and Sinuiju. During the Korean War, it was the headquarters of the Volunteer Railway Unit. During the war, in the face of the enemy's powerful air power, the volunteers built a "steel transportation line that could not be broken and bombed continuously" here. Anzhou City has built a Chinese Volunteer Martyrs' Cemetery, where 1,156 martyrs are buried. From Pyongyang to Anju, it usually takes about 2 hours by bus.
桧仓 Huaichang
Located in the southeast of South Pyongan Province, it was the headquarters of the Chinese Volunteers during the Korean War, and the largest Chinese Volunteer Martyrs' Cemetery in North Korea. 134 martyrs, including Mao Anying, are buried here. Near the Martyrs' Cemetery there is also the former site of the headquarters of the Volunteer Army
Hinokura is usually reached by bus from Pyongyang, but due to the difficulty of the road, it takes about 3-4 hours one way.
新义州 Sinuiju
Sinuiju is located in northwestern North Korea, the capital of North Pyongan Province, across the Yalu River from Dandong, China. The original capital of North Pyongan Province was Uiju, named after the number of righteous people. After the construction of the railway, in order to more easily plunder the resources of northeast China, the administrative center was moved to a transportation hub in the south of Uiju, called Sinuiju. Sinuiju is the terminus of the Gyeongui Line (Seoul to Sinuiju) and connects to Dandong, China. It is the largest Sino-DPRK trade port and an important tourist entry and exit point on the DPRK side, and most tourists entering the DPRK by land are the first stop here. Because of its proximity to China, many short-term tourist destinations like a day trip to North Korea are located here. Tours generally include visiting the bronze statue of Kim Il Sung and the Kim Il Sung Revolutionary Historical Museum, visiting the History Museum, watching kindergarten performances, etc., you can also watch the old Yalu River Bridge that was blown up during the Korean War by the Yalu River, or look at the "Hong Kong" Dandong while thinking about the true meaning of life. In addition, some tour operators will arrange excursions to Donglin (동림) County around Sinuiju.
From Pyongyang to Sinuiju, it usually takes five hours to reach Sinuiju by train, including border control and other procedures. To visit Sinuiju, you can sign up for a one-day tour group from Dandong, which is relatively convenient and faster. However, due to limited conditions, try not to stay in the local area.
沙里院 Sariwon
Shaliwon, the capital of North Hwanghae Province, is located halfway between Pyongyang and Kaesong, is the southern gate of Pyongyang, and thrives on railways. There are folk streets that reflect the traditional style of Joseon, and scenery such as Jeongfangsan Mountain (정방산), which is famous in North Korea. Shariwon grapes are famous in North Korea. From Pyongyang to Shaliwon, it is usually a bus ride that takes about 1.5 hours each way.
咸兴 Hamhung
Hamhung is the capital of South Hamgyong Province, an important industrial city and port city in North Korea, with a long history, and the word "salt" in Hamgyong Province is taken from Hamhung. Hamhing feng shui is good, and the historical king of Korea, Li Sung-gui, was a native of Hamhung. It is rumored that among the high-ranking officials who are now active in North Korean politics, Kim Il Sung graduated from comprehensive university and was born in Hamgyong Province, accounting for a large proportion.
The territory of Hamhung is home to historical sites such as the ancient "Nine Heavenly Pavilion", the ancient prison camp "Seonhwado" and Hamheungseong, as well as the scenic Dongheungsan Mountain, and the Korean scenic spot "Ma Tian (마전)". Located 25 kilometers southeast of Hamhung, Ma Tian Yuen (마전유원) is named Ma Tian because of the variety of hemp in ancient times. The amusement park includes a beach, summer camps, and sports facilities. The turquoise waters and white sand in Mata make you want to linger. It is also worth mentioning that Hamhung also has a sculpture of the only foreign leader in North Korea, and on the square of Hamhung Hungnam fertilizer plant, there is a bronze statue of Premier Zhou Enlai. In addition, there is a place around Hamhung that Chinese know - Changjin Lake (장진호), which was the site of the decisive battle in the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea, the Battle of Changjin Lake. It's not open to tourists, but you can check it out if you have the chance.
On the Battle Plateau (부전고원) around Hamheung, you can admire the 6-kilometer-long Yulian Mountain (옥련산) Stone River composed of granite rocks. The huge rocks rolling on the river and the gurgling water below the river are spectacular. It is still pristine and pollution-free, and not many people know about it, and it can be reached by bus in 3 hours from Hamhing.
Unlike Pyongyang cold noodles, cold noodles are made from potatoes, put eel in the noodles, and mixed with sour, sweet and fragrant seasonings.
Getting to Hamhung from Pyongyang is awkward, with buses and trains taking a long time. Consider taking a plane, there are regular flights from Pyongyang to Hamhung.
清津 Chongjin
Cheongjin, the capital of North Hamgyong Province, is an important industrial city, the capital of steel, and the only city with a foreign consulate. Kiyotsu was originally a fishing village, developed by the supply of the Japanese army, and was called a steel manufacturing base during the Japanese colonial era. The sightseeing spots in Cheongjin are mainly the revolutionary historical sites of Kim Il Sung, Kim Jong Il and Kim Jong Sook.
Gyeongseong (경성), 35 kilometers southwest of Cheongjin, is a city with a long history, and historical relics such as castles and gates from ancient times are preserved, and the word for mirror in Hamgyong Province is derived from here. Gyeongseong is a hot spring resort city in North Korea, and the porcelain and goji berries of Gyeongseong are also famous in North Korea.
Mount Shipoh (칠보산) is one of the famous mountains in North Korea, and it is said that the mountain contains seven kinds of treasures. Like Mount Jingang, Qibao Mountain is divided into three parts: Outer Seven Treasures, Inner Seven Treasures and Sea Seven Treasures, also known as "Xianbei King Kong". In addition, Qibao Mountain is not far from Pungye-ri, where North Korea conducted its nuclear test, and from Wushuduan-ri, where the satellite was launched.
Getting from Pyongyang to Cheongjin takes a train, but it takes a long time. Travelers may consider flying there, arriving at Yulang (어랑) Airport and taking a bus to Cheongjin, Qibaosan, Gyeongseong, and more.
罗先 Rasun
Located at the northeasternmost tip of the Korean Peninsula, Rason is a special economic zone in North Korea, formed by the merger of Rajin Port (라진) and Pioneer Port (선봉). Across the Douman River, Luoxian faces Hunchun in China and Hassan in Russia, and is a city of "three countries with roosters and flowers blooming in three frontiers". Luozin has a good ecological environment, you can take a boat to go fishing, feed seagulls, and watch seals.
Rasin is the most open place in North Korea, and as a traveler, you can do many things that are not allowed in other North Korean cities, such as exchanging and using North Korean currency. It is a close look at the North Korean people who are undergoing a slow transition to a market economy. In addition, Rason also legally opened the only casino in North Korea besides the Giethoorn Hotel in Pyongyang, the Emperor Casino Hotel. Roxian's seafood and mugwort tea taste good.
Because the distance is too far and there is no airport, travel to Luoxian, usually from Hunchun or Yanji newspaper local tour groups.
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