Explore the top sights and little-known places to visit in Kaesong, North Korea, a city steeped in history and culture. Get an insight into the country's past and present, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Kaesong, a city in North Korea, is a fascinating destination for those who seek unique and authentic travel experiences. With its rich history and cultural heritage, the city offers an insight into the country’s past and present. From ancient temples and palaces to modern museums, Kaesong is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to explore North Korea beyond its capital city, Pyongyang.
In this article, we’ll explore the top sights and little known places to visit in Kaesong, North Korea. We’ll also discuss the reasons why you should visit this city and provide tips for travelers who are planning to visit.
Why You Should Visit Kaesong, North Korea
Kaesong is a city steeped in history and culture. As the ancient capital of the Koryo Dynasty, it served as the center of politics, economics, and culture for centuries. Many of the country’s most important historical and cultural landmarks are located in Kaesong, making it an essential destination for those who want to understand the country’s past.
Furthermore, Kaesong is a great place to experience North Korea beyond its capital city. While Pyongyang is undoubtedly a fascinating destination, it can feel somewhat sanitized and scripted. In contrast, Kaesong offers a more authentic glimpse into daily life in North Korea. It’s an excellent place to interact with locals, sample traditional foods, and witness daily rituals.
Finally, Kaesong is relatively easy to reach from the South Korean capital, Seoul. The city is located just 160 kilometers north of Seoul, and there are regular tours that depart from the South Korean side of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). So if you’re already planning a trip to Seoul, adding a visit to Kaesong is a no-brainer.
Top Sights to Visit in Kaesong
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Tomb of King Kongmin
The Tomb of King Kongmin, also known as the Hyonjongrung Royal Tomb, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the outskirts of Kaesong. The tomb is the final resting place of King Kongmin, the 31st king of the Koryo Dynasty, and his wife, Queen Noguk.
The tomb is a beautiful example of traditional Korean architecture, with its stone walls, gate, and burial mound. Visitors can explore the tomb’s interior, which contains a stone statue of the king and queen, as well as various artifacts from the Koryo Dynasty.
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Sonjuk Bridge
The Sonjuk Bridge is a historic stone bridge that spans the Taedong River in Kaesong. Built in the 13th century, the bridge is one of the oldest surviving examples of traditional Korean bridge architecture.
Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy views of the river and surrounding countryside. It’s a particularly beautiful spot to visit during the autumn months when the leaves of the trees along the riverbank turn golden.
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Koryo Museum
The Koryo Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Koryo Dynasty. The museum is housed in a traditional Korean building that was once the governor’s residence during the dynasty.
Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of artifacts, including ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. There’s also a replica of the royal throne used by the Koryo kings, as well as a display of traditional Korean clothing.
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Janam Hill Fortress
The Janam Hill Fortress is a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking Kaesong. Built during the Koryo Dynasty, the fortress was used to protect the city from invasion.
Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Little Known Places to Visit in Kaesong
In addition to these top sights, Kaesong also has some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some little-known places to visit in Kaesong:
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Samsongchong Tomb
The Samsongchong Tomb is a group of three royal tombs located on a hill overlooking Kaesong. The tombs date back to the Koryo Dynasty and are believed to be the final resting places of three queens.
Visitors can hike up to the tombs and explore the surrounding area, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
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Kaesong Folk Hotel
The Kaesong Folk Hotel is a unique accommodation option in Kaesong that offers travelers the opportunity to stay in a traditional Korean house. The hotel is located in a beautifully restored hanok, a traditional Korean house with a tiled roof and wooden interior.
Guests can experience traditional Korean culture by sleeping on a heated floor and sampling local foods. The hotel also offers traditional Korean cultural experiences, such as calligraphy lessons and tea ceremonies.
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Pyochungsa Temple
The Pyochungsa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located on a mountain outside of Kaesong. The temple was founded in the 7th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
Visitors can explore the temple’s beautiful grounds, which include a main hall, a bell pavilion, and several smaller buildings. The temple is particularly beautiful during the autumn months when the surrounding mountains are ablaze with color.
Tips for Travelers Visiting Kaesong
If you’re planning to visit Kaesong, here are some tips to help make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
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Book a guided tour
The easiest and most reliable way to visit Kaesong is to book a guided tour. There are several tour operators that offer tours to Kaesong from Seoul, including the DMZ Spy Tour and Panmunjom Travel Center.
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Be respectful
North Korea is a unique and often misunderstood country, and it’s important to be respectful of its customs and traditions. Dress modestly, avoid taking photographs without permission, and follow your guide’s instructions.
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Be prepared for limited communication
North Korea is a closed society, and access to the internet and international phone calls is limited. Be prepared for limited communication with the outside world during your trip.
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Bring cash
Credit cards are not widely accepted in North Korea, so it’s important to bring cash with you. US dollars and euros are widely accepted, but make sure to bring small bills as change can be hard to come by.
In conclusion, Kaesong is a fascinating destination for travelers who want to explore North Korea beyond its capital city, Pyongyang. With its rich history and cultural heritage, the city offers an insight into the country’s past and present. From ancient temples and palaces to modern museums, Kaesong is a must-visit destination for those who seek unique and authentic travel experiences. So why not add Kaesong to your travel bucket list and explore this hidden gem for yourself?