Korea (North)-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in North Korea

Day 1: Arrival in Pyongyang

  • Arrival: Arrive at Sunan International Airport (FNJ) via Beijing or Vladivostok.
  • Visa Requirements: Obtain a visa from the DPRK embassy or consulate in your home country before arrival. Americans, South Koreans, and journalists may face additional restrictions.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your designated hotel, such as the Yanggakdo International Hotel or the Koryo Hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Arch of Triumph, a monumental arch dedicated to Kim Il-sung’s 70th birthday. Explore the nearby Kim Il-sung Square and take in the city views from the top floor of the Grand People’s Study House.

Day 2: Pyongyang

  • Morning: Visit the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, a grand mausoleum where Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il lie in state. Dress code: formal attire.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Korean cuisine at a local restaurant, such as the Pyongyang Restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Mangyongdae Revolutionary Site, a historic site showcasing Kim Il-sung’s early life.
  • Evening: Watch the Mass Games, a spectacular performance featuring thousands of performers (seasonal).

Day 3: Pyongyang to Kaesong

  • Morning: Drive to Kaesong (approx. 2 hours), a historic city near the DMZ.
  • Visit: The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the buffer zone between North and South Korea. Look out for the Joint Security Area, the Third Tunnel of Aggression, and the Propaganda Village.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Korean lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Kaesong

  • Morning: Explore the Kaesong Old Town, a well-preserved traditional Korean town.
  • Visit: The Sonjuk Pagoda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Koryo Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Koryo Dynasty.
  • Afternoon: Return to Pyongyang (approx. 2 hours).

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Pyongyang Metro, one of the deepest metro systems in the world.
  • Departure: Transfer to Sunan International Airport for your departure flight.

Additional Information

  • Transportation: Private bus or coach will be arranged by your tour operator. Taxis and public transportation are not readily available for tourists.
  • Currency: The North Korean won (KPW) is the local currency, but USD, EUR, and CNY are widely accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used.
  • Language: Korean is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Safety: Follow your tour guide’s instructions at all times, as independent travel is not permitted for tourists in North Korea.
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, remove your hat when entering buildings, and avoid taking pictures of military personnel or infrastructure.

Tour Operators

  • Consider booking with a reputable tour operator, such as Koryo Tours, Young Pioneer Tours, or Uri Tours, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.
  • Be aware that independent travel is not permitted for tourists in North Korea.