Table of Contents
Introduction
Taking a trip to North Korea offers the chance to see a country unlike any other. Very few tourists are granted visas to enter the reclusive nation, making a North Korean vacation a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This comprehensive tour takes travelers from the capital of Pyongyang to the Demilitarized Zone border with South Korea and to ancient temples, stunning mountains, and more. Join me on this journey to discover the captivating sights of North Korea.
Arriving in Pyongyang
After the long international flight to Pyongyang, I touched down at Pyongyang International Airport, the city’s main air hub. Stepping off the plane, I was immediately struck by the massive portraits of the country’s former leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il displayed in the terminal. After passing through the efficient immigration and customs process, we met our local North Korean guides and boarded our tour bus to head into the capital. Driving down the wide boulevards, the towers of Pyongyang came into view, dominated by the soaring spire of the Juche Tower.
Touring Pyongyang
Pyongyang is truly a city designed for showcasing the ideals of North Korean socialism. Our first stop in the capital was Kim Il-sung Square, a massive open plaza surrounded by government ministries and Communist monuments. Watching locals pay their respects at the larger-than-life statues of North Korea’s founder and his son was a glimpse into the cult of personality that still reigns here. Next, we took a ride on the Pyongyang Metro. Descending into the ornate stations glittering with chandeliers and socialist realist murals was an experience like none other. After working up an appetite, we sat down for a traditional Korean barbecue dinner and sampled local dishes like kimchi and cold noodles.
The DMZ and Joint Security Area
One of the most fascinating sights in North Korea is the Demilitarized Zone separating the North and South. Our tour headed north from Pyongyang and arrived at the truce village of Panmunjom inside the DMZ. Standing steps away from stern North Korean soldiers as they stand guard was an incredible scene. The tour of the Joint Security Area brought us past the blue UN buildings right up to the Military Demarcation Line between the two Koreas. Looking across this tense border into South Korea allowed a glimpse into the country that North Koreans are taught to view as their enemy.
Kaesong and the Ancient Capitals
After the drama of the DMZ, a trip south to the city of Kaesong highlighted historic Korean culture. As the ancient capital of the medieval Koryo Dynasty, Kaesong preserves centuries-old traditions. We toured the historic Songgyungwan Confucian Academy as well as the tombs of King Kongmin and his queen nestled in the green hills just outside the city. Their life-size statues and the beautiful paintings inside the tomb gave us a window into Korea’s past grandeur.
Nampo and the West Sea Barrage
Driving west from Pyongyang brought us to the port city of Nampo on the Yellow Sea. The highlight here is unquestionably the 8 km concrete West Sea Barrage dam and lock system spanning the Taedong River as it meets the ocean. Walking along the dam and watching ships pass through the enormous locks is an impressive display of North Korean engineering. The views of the setting sun over the sea and the North Korean navy stationed nearby were unforgettable.
Myohyangsan and Buddhist Temples
One of the most beautiful regions in North Korea is the Myohyangsan Mountains about two hours north of Pyongyang. Hiking trails wind past waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and pine forests. Nestled in these stunning mountains are historic Buddhist shrines like Pohyon Temple and Hyangsan Temple dating back over 1,000 years. Seeing monks praying and chanting sutras within the weathered halls revealed that Buddhism still remains a part of life in socialist North Korea.
Masikryong Ski Resort
In a luxurious mountain valley near the eastern port city of Wonsan lies Masikryong Ski Resort. This modern resort built in just ten months is equipped with dozens of ski runs, gondolas, chalet-style hotels, and all the amenities you’d expect at a European alpine resort. Spending a couple days hitting Pyongyang’s surprisingly great slopes was a surreal delight. Night skiing under bright lights followed by relaxing in the nearby hot springs completed the winter wonderland experience.
Everyday Life in North Korea
While we only saw gleams of daily life outside Pyongyang, our bus rides through the countryside revealed scenes of rural villages farming on steep hillsides and people commuting by bike on winding roads. School children waved enthusiastically as we passed, showcasing the friendly curiosity that shone through despite the nation’s closed-off reputation. Meals at local restaurants on the road offered tasty Korean staples amidst kitschy socialist décor.
Departing from Pyongyang
Before flying out of Pyongyang, we had time for one last city tour in the morning. Revisiting highlights like the Juche Tower and strolling through Kim Il-Sung Square served as a final snapshot of the capital. Witnessing the athletic parades of local youth groups that convene daily with military-like precision was the perfect glimpse into North Korean life to carry forward as we boarded our flight home from Pyongyang International Airport after a busy and eye-opening week.
Conclusion
A trip from Pyongyang into the DMZ and beyond reveals a North Korea that defies easy assumptions. Beyond the political ideologies, experiencing destinations like the ancient capitals, stunning mountains, and ski resort show a country rich in history, natural wonders, and everyday life. While impressions have to be taken with a grain of salt in this tightly controlled nation, keeping an open mind allows these enthralling sights to spark curiosity that lingers long after departing Pyongyang. For the adventurous traveler, a North Korean tour offers an adventure like no other.
FAQs
What are the main highlights on a trip to North Korea?
The highlights include Pyongyang’s monuments like Kim Il-sung Square, the DMZ border area, scenic sites like Myohyangsan Mountains, historic spots like Kaesong’s ancient palaces, and modern amenities like the Masikryong Ski Resort. Activities like riding the Pyongyang Metro and hiking to Buddhist temples round out the top attractions.
How strict is the supervision of tourists in North Korea?
Tourists in North Korea are always accompanied by local guides who steer activities. Independent exploration is very limited. However, guides allow opportunities to interact with locals when appropriate. Following the rules makes for the smoothest tour experience.
What interesting daily life scenes might you see?
You can glimpse everyday scenes like farmers tending fields, laborers on construction projects, school kids on field trips, people commuting by bike, and workers going about their jobs. Signs of normal life happen during long bus rides between tour sites.
Can you visit the village where the armistice was signed?
Yes, the truce village of Panmunjom in the heart of the DMZ can be visited on guided tours. You can walk around the very conference room where the 1953 armistice ending the Korean War was signed. It offers a glimpse into the tensions that still linger.
What unique souvenirs can you get in North Korea?
Popular souvenirs include stamps and postcards, local artwork, calendars with propaganda themes, traditional clothes, handicrafts, and books on local culture. Many items feature political imagery and symbols of North Korean life. Bargaining is not common in stores targeted to tourists.