North Korea, one of the most secretive countries in the world, often sparks curiosity among travelers. While it’s not a conventional destination, the country offers a unique glimpse into a part of the world few get to experience. If you’re planning a trip, it’s essential to know the best places to visit and what makes each site special. From historic monuments to hidden cultural gems, here’s a guide to the key cities and must-visit locations in North Korea.
Pyongyang: The Capital City
Pyongyang is the capital of North Korea and the most visited city in the country. It’s filled with monuments, grand architecture, and historical landmarks that reflect the country’s past and its political leadership.
Kim Il-Sung Square
This massive square is a symbol of North Korean authority and power. Named after the country’s founder, Kim Il-Sung, it’s often the site of military parades and state celebrations. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to understand the political propaganda in North Korea.
Juche Tower
The Juche Tower represents North Korea’s official ideology, known as Juche. Standing tall along the Taedong River, this monument offers panoramic views of Pyongyang from its observation deck. It’s an excellent spot to take in the scale and layout of the city.
Kumsusan Palace of the Sun
Also known as the Mausoleum of Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il, this immense building is the final resting place of the country’s first two leaders. Visitors are required to dress formally, and the visit itself follows a strict protocol. It’s one of the most tightly controlled and significant sites in North Korea.
Pyongyang Metro
The Pyongyang Metro is not just a transportation system; it’s also a showpiece for the North Korean government. It ranks among the deepest subway systems in the world and is decorated extensively with murals and chandeliers. Some stations are as impressive as any museum entrance.
Panmunjom: The DMZ
Panmunjom, located on the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), is one of the most tense borders in the world. It’s a place where North Korea and South Korea meet face-to-face, and visitors can step into the blue huts that are part of the Joint Security Area (JSA).
Peace Museum
This small museum holds the original table and documents from the Korean War Armistice signing. It’s surreal to be in a place that holds so much historical significance, knowing that the war technically never ended.
The Third Tunnel of Aggression
Discovered by South Korean forces in the 1970s, this tunnel was allegedly built by the North Korean military with the intention of invading the South. Visitors can walk through a section of the tunnel, which is eerily claustrophobic and very narrow.
Mount Myohyang: Nature and Tradition
Mount Myohyang is one of North Korea’s most beautiful natural areas. It’s known for its hiking trails and temples. If you enjoy nature and want to escape the intenseness of Pyongyang, this is a great option.
Pohyon Temple
One of the main draws of Mount Myohyang is Pohyon Temple. Originally built in the 11th century, it’s one of the most important religious sites in North Korean Buddhism. Though much of it has been rebuilt, it remains a peaceful site in an often rigid and structured country.
International Friendship Exhibition
This museum houses gifts given to North Korean leaders by foreign dignitaries over the years. Offerings range from the bizarre to the extravagant. Situated within the Myohyang mountains, the building itself is partly built into the rock, which is quite unusual.
Kaesong: Ancient History
Kaesong is another city worth visiting. Located near the DMZ, it was historically the capital of the Koryo dynasty, making it rich in ancient history.
Koryo Museum and Tombs
Before Pyongyang, Kaesong was the heart of Korea during the Koryo dynasty, and the Koryo Museum is located on the grounds of a former Confucian academy. Nearby, you’ll find the royal Koryo tombs, which show a less standardized side of North Korean history.
Kaesong’s Old Town
Though much of North Korea is modern and rebuilt, Kaesong has areas that retain their traditional layout and architecture. Exploring this less-structured city offers a unique glimpse into Korea’s pre-1945 past.
Mount Paektu: The Sacred Volcano
Mount Paektu is North Korea’s highest point and holds a near-mythical place in North Korean culture. This volcano, which sits on the border with China, is said to be the birthplace of Dangun, the mythical founder of Korea.
Heaven Lake
At the summit of Mount Paektu lies Heaven Lake, a stunning crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption. It’s often considered one of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders. On clear days, the reflection of the surrounding mountains makes it look like a mirror.
Mount Paektu Secret Camp
According to North Korean propaganda, this is where Kim Jong-Il was born during Korea’s struggle against Japanese occupation. Travelers visit this camp to learn about its historical significance and see the nearby nature trails.
Nampo: A Gateway to North Korea’s Coast
Nampo is a port city located about an hour from Pyongyang. It is known for being more industrial, but it still has a few sights that make it worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in North Korea’s infrastructure.
West Sea Barrage
This massive engineering project is located at the mouth of the Taedong River and was built to control water levels and protect Pyongyang from floods. It’s a sign of North Korea’s focus on self-reliance and engineering achievements.
Hot Springs at Ryonggang Spa
Nampo is also home to natural hot springs. The Ryonggang Hot Spa offers a chance to relax and rejuvenate after traveling through the more intense parts of North Korea.
Rason: The Special Economic Zone
Rason is unique for being part of North Korea’s Special Economic Zone. It’s less restricted than other parts of the country and is mainly focused on trade with China and Russia.
Rason Market
Unlike other markets in North Korea, the Rason Market is one of the few places where tourists can actually exchange foreign currency and purchase goods. It’s a fascinating look at an open economy in a largely closed-off country.
Rajin Harbor
This harbor links North Korea to international waters and stands as a symbol of the country’s attempt to engage with the world economically. Observing the transportation and trade activity here feels different from the rest of North Korea, which is more isolated.
The Masikryong Ski Resort
If you’re visiting North Korea in winter, consider stopping by the Masikryong Ski Resort. Test out the slopes and enjoy facilities that are surprisingly modern by North Korean standards.
The Skiing Experience
Masikryong offers a range of slopes for different skill levels, and while it may not compare to European resorts, the clean, fresh air and views of the surrounding mountains make it a memorable experience.
Although North Korea is unlike any other country you’ll travel to, it offers a unique mix of history, political ideology, and natural beauty. From Pyongyang’s monumental buildings to the quiet beauty of Mount Paektu, every part of North Korea tells its own story. If you keep an open mind and are prepared for a highly guided visit, it can be one of the most eye-opening trips of your life.
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