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North Korea |
Capital: Pyongyang
Official Language: Korean
Currency:North Korean Won
North Korea or the Land of the Morning Calm is a beautiful country on the northern part of the Korean Peninsula. North Korea is bounded by China and Russia to the north, South Korea to the south, Yellow Sea and Korea Bay to the west and Sea of Japan to the east. After Japan's defeat in World War II in 1945, Korea was separated into North and South Korea with the Soviet Union controlling north and the United States controlling the south. The name of the country in Korean is called Choson that has been derived from Neo-Confucian Koryo dynasty. North Korea offers a wide array of tourist attractions from beautiful pine clad hills to exquisite monuments, parks and museums. Spring and autumn are generally the best time to visit when the weather is pleasant.
Major Cities
Pyongyang is the capital city of North Korea. Sinuiju, Kaesong, Nampho, Chongjin, Wonsan, Hoeryong, Hamhung, Haeju, Kanggye and Hyesan are other major cities of North Korea. Pyongyang located on the Taedong River is somewhat like an Orwellian state with wide avenues, monolithic buildings, parks, hotels and a host of government supporters. Some notable tourist attractions in the city include two fountains situated in the Taedong River, the Arch of Triumph, Juche Tower, and two of the world's largest stadiums namely Kim II Sung Stadium and Rungnado May Day Stadium. Sinuiju is a wonderful city bordering China by the Yalu River. Scenic sites include the Tonggun Pavilion, Waterfall, and Hot Springs. Kaseong situated in north Hwanghae Province was the capital of Korea during the Koryo dynasty. There are still the ruins of the Manwoldae palace. Kaesong boasts of numerous historical sites due to its long years of imperial history. The historic sites include Sonjuk Bridge, Confucian school of Songgyungwan and the royal mausoleum of King Wanggon, founder of Koryo. Kumgangsan national park, with the Diamond Mountains along the east coast of the country is a wonderland of beauty attracting tourists from all over the world. Nampo is a city and seaport in South Pyongyang. Waudo Pleasure Ground, in western Nampho is a favorite tourist spot with unique natural vistas, vast sea beaches, and recreation facilities. Places worth seeing are West Sea Barrage, 3 Tombs in Kangso, Tomb in Tokhung-dong, Susan Spa, Chongsan Spa and Lake Thaesang. Famous scenic sites include hot springs, and Mt. Chibosan. Chongjin located in the northeast of North Korea, in North Hamgyong Province is just a few miles from the Chinese border, with abundant Chinese markets.
Tourist Attractions
The highest point in Korea is Mt. Paektu on the border of North Korea and China. The mountain is breathtakingly beautiful with a crater lake named Chonji on its summit. Viewing sunrise from the mountain peak is an unforgettable experience. This spectacularly beautiful place is said to be the site where the Son of the Lord of Heaven descended from the heavens and established the first Korean Kingdom. As a result it is the most sacred site of the Koreans. The Arch of Triumph in downtown Pyongyang is premier tourist site. Built in 1982 at the foot of Moran Hill in Pyongyang, the stone edifice was built to glorify President Kim IL Sung's endeavor in protesting Japanese rule. The structure is a replica of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The Juche Tower is another worth seeing monument in Pyongyang. Located on the eastern bank of the River Taedong, opposite Kim Il Sung Square the tower is named after the principle of Juche i.e. autarky, self-reliance and socialism developed by Kim Il Sung. Myohyangsan in Kaseong is a beautiful place where tourists can enjoy pleasant walks amidst lush greeneries or bath in the waterfalls. Buddhist pagodas nearby are also worth viewing. The Exhibition Center in Kaseong houses some unique gifts presented by foreigners to Kim II Sung and his son.
Transport and Accommodation
Air Koryo, the official airline of North Korea organizes frequent trips from Beijing to Pyongyang. Sunan International Airport in the west of Pyongyang is the major airport. The alternative means of getting into North Korea is via train from Beijing. Few public buses are available in the country connecting between major cities. The best option to get around the country is by car in the company of an official driver and guide. The strict regulations of North Korea prohibit tourists to choose their own accommodation. Foreigners are bound to stay in designated tourist hotels. Hotels are of various standards ranging from deluxe, first class, second and third class. Generally the tour operator organizes accommodation for the traveler.
Precautions
Cholera is prevalent in many parts of the country and appropriate medical advice should be sought regarding the necessity of a vaccination prior to travel. Vaccinations against polio and typhoid are highly recommended. Many diseases can be borne from drinking water. Water should be boiled before drinking. Other wise mineral water bottle should be taken to the travel spots. Peeled vegetables and fruits should not be consumed and meat should be well cooked and served.
For further details and information on North Korea and its tourist destinations flip through the pages of
Allwonderscountries
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