What to see on your vacation in North Korea
A country so steeped in history is a place we all want to visit at some point in our lives. North Korea, the other name for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, is located in East Asia and its capital is Pyongyang. South Korea, which has been separated from North Korea by the demilitarized zone, is a country formed after World War II. North Korea’s closest neighbor is Japan and China.
This is a country that grew enormously after the world war and has not stopped in its efforts. It continues to dazzle visitors with its local culture and traditions. Among the various things to see, here is a list of five things one should not miss while traveling in this part of the world.
Take a plane from the capital city of Pyongyang to reach Paekdusan, which is a place of great spiritual and religious importance. Paekdu, which is the highest mountain in North Korea, is also where the volcano with the largest crater is located. Called Chonji, or Lake of Heaven, this crater is surrounded by several lakes. This place is very sacred to the locals, simply because this is where the Son of the Lord from Heaven is said to have landed and where the first Kingdom of Korea began.
Panmunjeom is a war-related sight, this place is very popular among tourists who are interested in seeing the place where the war took place and resulted in the division of Korea. Panmunjeom is a place anyone visiting Korea will be taken to, albeit a sad place, speaking of all the lives lost during the war and how US imperialism affected Korea.
Crystal clear waters tumble and clear skies around the mountain ranges surrounding Myohyang make the visit well worth it. Myohyangsan, which literally translates to Mysterious Fragrance Mountain, is filled with scenery and views like nowhere else in the world. The main purpose of this trip would be to visit the two shrines, one of which is a treasure chest of gifts given to Kim II Sung, and the other to Kim Jong II. You can also walk through the beautiful mountains and relax.
Along the Diamond Mountains, also known locally as Kumgangsan, one can reach the Koryong Falls. People wishing to reach the falls are in for quite a hike, so be prepared for a long hike up the hills, and this can be quite challenging for some, if you are not physically fit. But the views along the way are breathtaking and truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Nampo is a place that has become the industrial center of North Korea and is worth a visit to see how the industries work. The amount of hard work and labor that goes into business is what helps the economy grow rapidly and prosper over time.
