Where Is North Korea On World Map: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Introduction

North Korea is a country located in East Asia, bordered by China to the north, Russia to the northeast, and South Korea to the south. Despite being an isolated and secretive country, North Korea has a lot to offer for tourists who are willing to visit. This travel guide will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in North Korea.

Top Attractions

Pyongyang

Pyongyang is the capital city of North Korea and a must-visit for any traveler. The city is home to many iconic landmarks, including the Juche Tower, the Arch of Triumph, and the Mansudae Grand Monument. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and clubs.

Mt. Paektu

Mt. Paektu is a sacred mountain located on the border between North Korea and China. It is considered the birthplace of the Korean nation and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a buffer zone between North and South Korea. It is one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world and is a fascinating place to visit. You can take a tour of the DMZ and see the Joint Security Area, the Bridge of No Return, and other iconic landmarks.

Hidden Gems

Mt. Kumgang

Mt. Kumgang is a beautiful mountain located on the east coast of North Korea. It is home to many waterfalls, hot springs, and stunning views. The mountain is only open to South Korean tourists, so it is a hidden gem for international travelers.

Chilbosan

Chilbosan is a mountain range located in the northeastern part of North Korea. It is home to many rare species of plants and animals and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Food Scene

The North Korean food scene is heavily influenced by Korean, Chinese, and Japanese cuisine. The most popular dishes include kimchi, bibimbap, naengmyeon, and bulgogi. The country is also famous for its specialty liquors, including soju and makgeolli.

Budget-Friendly Tips

North Korea is not a budget-friendly destination, but there are a few tips that can help you save money. First, consider traveling during the off-season, when prices are lower. Second, stay in budget hotels or guesthouses instead of luxury hotels. Finally, eat at local restaurants instead of touristy ones.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

North Korea is home to many beautiful mountains and hiking trails. Some of the best hiking destinations include Mt. Paektu, Mt. Kumgang, and Chilbosan.

Skiing

North Korea has several ski resorts, including Masikryong Ski Resort and Taehwa Peak Ski Resort. These resorts offer a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.

Historical Landmarks

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun is the mausoleum of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. The palace is located in Pyongyang and is open to tourists.

Palace of the Nation

The Palace of the Nation is the seat of the Supreme People’s Assembly, the legislative body of North Korea. The palace is located in Pyongyang and is open to tourists.

Family-Friendly Activities

Children’s Palace

The Children’s Palace is a cultural center for children located in Pyongyang. The palace offers classes in music, dance, and sports.

Mangyongdae Funfair

The Mangyongdae Funfair is an amusement park located in Pyongyang. The park has many rides, including roller coasters and bumper cars.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

Ullim Falls

Ullim Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the northeastern part of North Korea. The waterfall is difficult to access, but it is a rewarding experience for adventurous travelers.

Chongjin

Chongjin is a city located in the northeastern part of North Korea. It is a fascinating place to visit, with many historical landmarks and cultural attractions.

Natural Wonders

Myohyangsan

Myohyangsan is a mountain range located in the northwestern part of North Korea. It is home to many waterfalls, hot springs, and stunning views.

Chilbo Beach

Chilbo Beach is a beautiful beach located on the east coast of North Korea. The beach is known for its clear waters and white sand.

Vibrant Nightlife

North Korea has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and clubs. Some of the best nightlife destinations include Pyongyang’s Taedonggang Beer Bar and Munsu Water Park.

Local Markets

Kaesong Koryo Insam Trading Company

The Kaesong Koryo Insam Trading Company is a market in Kaesong that sells ginseng, a popular North Korean product.

Mangyongdae Native Products Exhibition and Sale Center

The Mangyongdae Native Products Exhibition and Sale Center is a market in Pyongyang that sells traditional North Korean products, including pottery and textiles.

Beaches and Mountains

Chilbosan

Chilbosan is a mountain range located in the northeastern part of North Korea. It is home to many rare species of plants and animals and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Chilbo Beach

Chilbo Beach is a beautiful beach located on the east coast of North Korea. The beach is known for its clear waters and white sand.

Cultural Immersion

North Korea is a fascinating country with a unique culture. To fully immerse yourself in the culture, consider attending a traditional Korean performance or visiting a local temple.

Art and Music Scene

North Korea has a rich art and music scene, with many galleries and concert halls. Some of the best destinations include the Pyongyang Grand Theatre and the Mansudae Art Studio.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore North Korea’s cities and landmarks. Some of the best walking tours include the Pyongyang City Walking Tour and the DMZ Walking Tour.

Architectural Marvels

Ryugyong Hotel

The Ryugyong Hotel is a 105-story skyscraper located in Pyongyang. It is one of the tallest buildings in the world and is a fascinating architectural marvel.

Arch of Triumph

The Arch of Triumph is a monument located in Pyongyang. It was built to commemorate the Korean resistance to Japan from 1925 to 1945.

Historical Sites

Mangyongdae

Mangyongdae is the birthplace of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea. The site is now a museum and a popular destination for tourists.

Yonggung Temple

Yonggung Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the northeastern part of North Korea. It was built in the 11th century and is a fascinating historical site.

Biking Routes

Pyongyang to Nampo

The route from Pyongyang to Nampo is a popular biking route in North Korea. The route is about 50 kilometers long and offers stunning views of the countryside.

Kaesong to Panmunjom

The route from Kaesong to Panmunjom is another popular biking route in North Korea. The route is about 20 kilometers long and takes you through many historical sites.

Wellness Retreats

Mt. Myohyangsan

Mt. Myohyangsan is a mountain range located in the northwestern part of North Korea. It is home to many hot springs and wellness retreats.

Masikryong Ski Resort

Masikryong Ski Resort is a luxury ski resort located in the eastern part of North Korea. The resort offers many wellness activities, including yoga and meditation.