Koryo Tours Brochure 2014

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INFORMATION ON TRAVEL TO THE DPRK (NORTH KOREA)

Your journey to the world’s most mysterious country begins here... >



.koryotours.com - 2 - INFORMATION ON TRAVEL TO THE DPRK (NORTH KOREA) INFORMATION ON TRAVEL TO THE DPRK (NORTH KO- 3 -www.koryotours.com

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

KORYO TOURS OFFICETel: (+86) 10 6416 7544 || Fax: (+86) 10 6415 2653 || Email: [email protected] || Website: www.koryotours.com

Oce Address: No 27 Bei San Li Tun Nan (East Courtyard), Chaoyang District, 100027, Beijing, China

Print Date: April 2014

GENERAL INFORMATION

TRAVEL INFORMATION

ENGAGEMENT & CULTURAL PROJECTS

KORYO TOURS PRODUCTIONS

OTHER DESTINATIONS

DESTINATIONS

Map of Korea | Sites you can visit displayed on a map

Koryo Tours Mission Statement | Our Vision, Mission and what we believe in

Sta Proles | Introducing our sta members

About Tourism in the DPRK (North Korea) | General informaon on DPRK (North Korea) Tourism

Major Holidays

Group Tours | Informaon on our group tours

Independent Tours | General informaon on independent tours

Specialised Tours | Introducon to various specialised tours we run

Mass Games | What is Arirang (Mass Games) ?

Flight & Train Timetable

Important Informaon | visas, electricity, customs, meals, climate, photography, etc.

Cultural Exchanges | descipons of our cultural exchange projects with the dprk

Sport Exchanges | introducing some of the sport projects we’ve arranged in the dprk

Film | our lm producons, 3 award-winning documentaries, feature lm, travel shows & many more

Publicaons | print publicaons & collaboraons

Turkmenistan | ashgabat, turkmenbashi, avaza, dashoguz, the aming gas crater of Darvaza, and more.

Magadan, Abandoned Russia & Ghost Town of Kadykchan | journey to the edge of the world…and beyond!

Tofalaria | east siberia’s most isolated territory, ride a reindeer in the land of the tofa people

Pyongyang | capital city - site descripons, opening mes, accommodaon, etc.

Pyongsong | located just 30 mins drive from pyongyang, recently opened to tourism

Kaesong | ancient city, panmunjom/dmz (border with south korea), folk hotel

Nampo | west coast city and heavy industry

Mt. Kuwol, Sinchon & Sariwon | scenic spot on the west coast

Haeju | 2.5 hours from pyongyangMt. Myohyang | “fragrant mountains”

Wonsan | marime city on the east coast

Masik Ryong (Ski Resort) | newly opened ski resort close to wonsan

Mt. Kumgang | “diamond mountains”

Hamhung | industrial city opened to tourism in 2010 by koryo tours

Mt. Paekdu | highest mountain Korea, how to get there, site descripon, accommodaon, etc.

Mt. Chilbo | one of dprk’s most remote and scenic areas

Chongjin | industrial city in the north east

Hoeryong | opened in 2013, the birthplace of mother kim jong suk

Rason | rason free trade and economic zone

Sinuiju | border city with dprk/china, recently opened to tourists

Dandong | the border with china/dprk, a one- or two-night extension two your dprk tour

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INFORMATION ON TRAVEL TO THE DPRK (NORTH KOwww.koryotours.com - 5 -

Engagement + Responsible Tourism

Koryo Group (Koryo Tours and Koryo Studio) is a Brish-run company based in Beijing specialising in DPRK (North Korea) Trave

Cultural Exchange, Art, Film, Publicaons, and Merchandise. We are very proud of the work we do in Korea and our experse i

based on the monthly visits we have made to the country since 1993.

At Koryo Tours, we have always been r m believers in responsible tourism. Alongside organising tours we also facilitate human

tarian and cultural engagement projects which benet the people of North Korea. In the past we have worked on various dier

ent humanitarian appeals from bakeries to braille diconaries.

At Koryo Tours we thrive on exchanging ideas to give the North Korean people the opportunies that interacon brings. Whethe

you are simply wanng to visit the country, run a sporng event, art show, lm screening, or just want to know more then pleas

contact us. We love a challenge and our list of achievements are testament to both our eorts and experse as well as that o

our Korean partner. This list includes; the rst western documentaries lmed in the DPRK, opening up new tourist desnaon

sports exchanges, the rst ever naonwide screening of a Western feature lm, the rst co-producon of a romanc comedy

feature lm, being the rst travel company to take in over 2,000 tourists a year, commissioning the rst pieces of Korean art fo

internaonal exhibions. These all make up the rst small steps to engagement.

Koryo Tours is recognised as being the only North Korea travel specialists and provide tourists and North Koreans alike with th

greatest opportunity of exchange. Our cultural projects have the support of the Brish Government.

KORYO GROUP - MISSION STATEMENT




.koryotours.com - 6 - INFORMATION ON TRAVEL TO THE DPRK (NORTH KOREA) INFORMATION ON TRAVEL TO THE DPRK (NORTH KOwww.koryotours.com - 7 -

INDEPENDENT TOURS - STAFF

GROUP TOURS - STAFF

ORYO TOURS STAFF IN OTHER DEPARTMENTS AGENT TOURS - STAFF

ease contact us with any quesons regarding tours to North Korea, we are more than happy to answer them and will be sure to reply to all

quiries promptly. Since 1993 Koryo Tours has been building strong and lasng relaonships with our partners in Pyongyang and we give you the

st travel experience to North Korea. We are recognised in guide books and the travel industry as the only true specialist in travel to the DPRK.

ORYO TOURS OFFICE (Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 – 18:00)

: +86 (10) 6416 7544 | Fax: +86 (10) 6415 2653 | Skype: koryo.toursmail Inquiries: [email protected] | Website: hp://www.koryotours.com

dress: No 27 Bei San Li Tun Nan (East Courtyard), Chaoyang District, 100027, Beijing, China

Rich organises and accompanies our Group Tours to all parts of the Korean Peninsula and Siberia. Rich has looked aer

many thousands of tourists over the last thirteen years and shared his many entertaining travel stories with them, providing

both recommendaons for future travel and fascinang points of comparison between the DPRK and other countries. He is

thus an ideal person to take groups into the closed yet fascinang world of North Korea, as he ensures that their every need

is met, and that their trip runs smoothly and successfully in every respect.

[email protected]

Daniel arranges our independent tours and accompanies group tours to the DPRK on a regular basis. He is also involved in

Koryo Tours’ cultural projects as well as developing our special-interest tours to the DPRK. As an expert on Soviet history

and lm, he provides lectures on, and specialist insight into, the history, culture and polics of the former socialist bloc,

and of the DPRK’s place within the former Soviet sphere. Those on tours led by Daniel will thus not only experience NorthKorean daily life, but will gain an extensive understanding of North Korea’s Soviet origins, as well as of its current social

and polical reality.

[email protected]

Sarah arranges our group tours and accompanies tours to the DPRK on a regular basis. She is also in charge of arranging

sporng events in the DPRK, such as cycling tours and running events. Taking a tour led by Sarah will give you tremendous

access to North Koreans all over the country, as she is able to use the great relaonships she has forged with our Korean

colleagues to provide an especially personal travelling experience in the country.

[email protected]

Rebecca is responsible for arranging and managing all our agent tours ranging from all corners of the globe. If you are an

agent or a travel enty looking at travelling to the DPRK (North Korea), Rebecca will be the person to get in touch with. Her

professional grip on management and organisaon together with the in-depth knowledge of the DPRK will ensure you to

get the best way to experience the DPRK.

[email protected]

Simon manages tourism to the DPRK at Koryo Tours. He is also responsible for ground breaking developments in our DPRK

site desnaons porolio, such as opening Hamhumg for tourism in 2011. Since 2002, he has travelled to North Korea

more than 120 mes, and has become a noted expert on subjects ranging from the intricacies of the Juche idea to North

Korean lm and sport. He has spoken on North Korean polics and culture all over China and Europe, has published a book

on North Korean lm art, and has organised numerous sports exchanges between the DPRK and other countries, including

ones focussed on ice hockey, cricket and football.

Aer training in Countryside Management and Landscape Architecture, Nick lectured at Leeds Metropolitan University, an

occupaon which took him to Beijing in 1993. His great friend Josh Green had spent a year living in Pyongyang, and a North

Korean friend of his suggested they visit Pyongyang with a small group of friends, as there were virtually no tourists vising

the country at the me. Aer this visit, Koryo Tours was born. Over the last twenty years, through passion and devoon,

he has succeeded in building up an innovave company, one which has built bridges between the DPRK and the rest of the

world, and which connues to be involved in new and excing projects in the country.

Hannah has been heavily involved in all aspects of Koryo Tours’ work since she joined the company in 2006, from tour or-

ganisaon and tour leading (she has visited the DPRK over 100 mes), to sports exchanges and media events. She has been

especially involved in Koryo Tours’ cultural projects and sports exchanges, and she counts her organisaon of the Middles-

brough Women’s FC visit to Pyongyang in 2010 as one of the highlights of her work with the DPRK. She has been involved inmany of the sports tours and organised and led the rst ever Cycling Tour in the DPRK in 2011. She has also had some truly

ground-breaking personal moments in DPRK. She moved to the US at the end of 2013 and will be connuing her work with

Koryo from that new base.

RICH BEAL

SARAH DAVIES

REBECCA ZHANG

DANIEL LEVITSKY

NICHOLAS BONNER

SIMON COCKERELL

HANNAH BARRACLOUGH

NANCY

PELLEGRINI

Tourism / Art

DAVID

ZHOU

Accounng and Finance

KENNA

LI

Tourism / Administraon

CHRISTOPHER

GRAPER

Canada Representave

VICKY

MOHIEDDEEN

Audio-Visual Producer

ADRIAN

SANDIFORD

Sales & Markeng






G R O U P T O U R S

Joining a group tour is the most popular way to travel to the DPRK both for enjoyment and for keeping the price reasonable. Our

tour ineraries provide the best introducon to North Korea and you benet from travelling with a great mix of naonalies, ages

and backgrounds. The majority of people who go with us are independent travellers so it is not your average group tour whichensures a unique experience.

Group tours are on set dates that we have scheduled in advance, usually to coincide with a major holiday or event in the DPRK. Se

our website for forthcoming group tours. In North Korea travelling in a group is oen much more fun and relaxing than being on

your own for several days with just two Korean guides and your driver, so in this case group tourism makes sense. All of our group

tours are accompanied by one of our expert western sta and a typical tour consist of between 8 and 18 tourists, mostly made up

of couples, individual travellers and perhaps one or two friends. About a quarter of our tourists are female. During the day the in

erary is oen fairly packed so you are kept busy but you get a good lunch break. There is plenty of me to be on your own, if you

wish, in the evenings and we also oer a single room supplement (40 EUR extra per night) if you prefer your privacy.

A trip to the DPRK is the trip of a lifeme, if you need any help deciding which tour is best for you then please don’t hesitate to ge

in touch. We are happy to answer all of your quesons.

How to apply for a group tour?

1) Choose which tour you would like to go on from the list on our website.

2) Fill in the online applicaon form

3) Email us a scan of your passport id-page (2-page spread in colour)

4) Email us a scan of a recent passport style photo (headshot) in colour

5) Pay the 50% tour deposit (via wire transfer to our EUR/USD/RMB a ccount)

Discounts:

| 3 – 4 people signing up together for a tour (5%) | 5 or more people signing up together (10%) | 8 or more, contact us |

| Student discount (10%) | Children under 2 years old (Free Service) | Children aged 2 – 12 (25%) | Returning visitors (10%)




I N D E P E N D E N T T O U R S

An independent tour is a great way to travel to the country if you want more exibility than a group tour. Trips can be as short as

nights / 3 days and as long as 16 nights / 17 days. The maximum that we recommend for a rst visit is 8 nights as the tours are inte

sive. We will also make recommendaons as to how you can get the most out of your trip - we a re the specialists and as we visit thDPRK every month we are in the best posion to advise you. Independent tours are generally more expensive than group tours b

if there are more than 6 of you it can somemes work out cheaper.

With an independent tour you can:

• choose your own travel dates, tour length and methods of entry / exit (ight or train)

• travel with a xed inerary or fully customise your own trip

• choose dierent levels of hotel accommodaon (budget, classic, deluxe)

• choose your airline (Air Koryo/Air China) and ight class (economy / business class)

English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian, Polish, Spanish and Hungarian-speaking guides are available.

Discounts:

10% discount to students and repeat clients

25% discount for children aged 2-12 ( under 2 free-of-charge)

For large groups, please contact us for a quote

If you have some slightly bizarre requests, there is no harm in asking! In the past we have run sports tours, school tours, language

and culture tours, corporate tours and special interest tours (such as architecture) if you have any suggesons, we would be glad t

hear them. Please note that ‘independent’ sll means being accompanied by your Korean guides everywhere you travel.

How to apply for an independent tour?

With an independent tour you can choose your dates of travel, methods of entry and exit and also the inerary can be tailored to

suit your requests. Independent tours do oer more exibility. Contact us for a travel plan and cost esmate: [email protected]




S P E C I A L I S T T O U R S

Experience a most unique desnaon in an even more niche way! These tours focus on a parcular aspect such as trains, architec

ture, arts and culture, sport, etc. We run specialist group tours year-round but many of these acvies can be accommodated o

an independent tour if requested. Check our website for a full list of our scheduled specialised tours. If you are interested in doingany of the specialised tours as an independent tour, do get in touch with us for possibilies.

We have arranged the following specialist tours and connue to develop our travel porolio:

In addion to the list above, we have also run the following tours in the past: sports tours, school tours, Pyongyang Marathon

tours and corporate tours. If you have any further suggesons, get in touch!

Specialist tours are usually limited to a certain number of parcipants and therefore we recommend booking early to avoid miss-

ing out. The applicaon and visa process is the same for the specialist tours as it is for any of our other DPRK tours.

How to apply for a specialised tour?

1) Choose which tour you would like to go on from the list on our website.

2) Fill in the online applicaon form

3) Email us a scan of your passport id-page (2-page spread in colour)

4) Email us a scan of a recent passport style photo (headshot) in colour

5) Pay the 50% tour deposit (via wire transfer to our EUR/USD/RMB account)

ARCHITECTURE TOUR

FINE ARTS & CULTURE

LANGUAGE & CULTURE TOUR

FILM FESTIVAL TOUR (PIFF)

TRAIN TOUR

LONG DISTANCE CYCLING

GOLF TOUR

HIKING & CAMPING

Access to many buildings not usually

open to tourist groups. We arrange

two tours per year focused on the

architecture of the DPRK.

Examine the ne arts and culture of the

DPRK.

Learn Korean language and culture in

Pyongyang, DPRK. A real treat for anyone

interested in the Korean language.

Be there for the glitz and glamour of

Pyongyang’s red carpet, at the Pyongyang

Internaonal Film Fesval.

Travel by train across North Korea from

Pyongyang to Chongjin.

Cycling more than 350 KM on road bikes

across the country and around some of

the most beauful areas in the DPRK.

Playing golf in Pyongyang. A beauful and

suciently challenging course for golfers

of any level.

Hiking and camping out under the stars

surrounded by the amazing scenery of

two of North Korea’s famous mountain

ranges




M A S S G A M E S

The mass games involves over 100,000 performers in a synchronise

mass gymnascs and dance extravaganza, the likes of which is impos

sible to see anywhere else. This is an art form that the DPRK has developed over the decades and takes place in the May Day stadium (th

world’s largest - 150,000 seats). Mass games are usually scheduled t

run from August to September but may also happen at other mes o

the year on special occasions, however, it is not guaranteed that they w

run on an annual basis. Please contact us for details or check our websit

for more informaon.

Guide to seang at the mass games performance:

(Ticket prices are subject to change, please contact us for details)

Tickets are purchased on the spot in Pyongyang, please do not send

money to us in advance. Tickets can also be paid for in US Dollars andChinese RMB.



Mansudae Grand Monument

20m-high bronze statues of North Korean

Leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il anked

by reliefs of workers, soldiers, cizens, etc, a

presentaon of owers is expected

– open every day

Schoolchildren’s Palace Tour & Performance

Centres of extra-curricular excellence with

study rooms and a breath-taking children’s

performance. Pyongyang has two palaces; - open on Tuesday and Thursday aernoons

Kimilsungia & Kimjongilia Flower Exhibion

Exhibits of the two owers named aer

DPRK’s leaders held on the occasion of their

birthdays. Dierent industries and groups

compete to put on the best oral displays

– open on and around February 16 & April 15

Mansudae Art Studio

Pyongyang’s centre of arsc excellence,

where the majority of sculptures, mosaics

& painngs that you see around Pyongyang

are made. Visit includes a gallery selling art-

work and ceramics – open on weekdays

Arch of Triumph

60m-high white granite arch erected in 1982

to mark the 70th birthday of President Kim Il

Sung and nearby impressive mosaic celebrat-

ing his triumphant return to Pyongyang in

1945 - open every day

Victorious Fatherland Liberaon War

Museum (Korean War Museum)

Giant museum exhibing the DPRK’s version

of the events of the Korean War, central to

any understanding of the country today –

open on weekdays

USS Pueblo

A cold war relic; US espionage ship captured

in 1968 and held as a trophy ever since -

open every day

Mangyongdae Nave House

Birthplace of President Kim Il Sung, a

tradional house in beauful natural

surroundings - open every day

Moranbong ParkPyongyang’s most pleasant central park; a

very popular spot for weekend and holiday

picnickers. Within the park are historical pa-

vilions as well as the DPRK-USSR Friendship

Tower - open every day but best to visit on

Sundays and Naonal Holidays for mingling

with the local cizenry

Kumsusan Memorial Palace of the Sun

Mausoleum where North Korean Leaders

Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il lie in state. Smart

clothes are required for this visit (men should

wear es) – open on Sunday and Thursday

mornings only

Revoluonary Martyrs’ Cemetery

Hillside cemetery with dozens of bron

busts of those who took part in the libera

from the Japanese – open every day

Kim Il Sung SquarePyongyang’s largest square in the heart of

the city features a portrait of President K

Il Sung, parades pass through here – ope

every day

Juche Tower

150m high monument to the DPRK’s guidi

ideology, which oers a panoramic view

the whole of Pyongyang for those who tak

the li to the top (5 EUR) - open every day

Shopping in book shop and stamp shop

The best places to stock up on souvenirs;

books by and about the leaders,

revoluonary stamps, T-Shirts and assorte

other items are available - open every day

War Victory Monument Park

A giant bronze sculpture of a victorious

solder looking down a long square anked

by statues of notable bales in the Korean

war - open everyday

Pyongyang Metro

The deepest metro in the world; stunning

mosaics and chandeliers in each staon;ride up to 6 staons on the Chollima line -

open every day

Monument to Party Foundaon

Featuring the hammer, sickle, and wring

brush that make up the Workers’ Party

emblem – open every day

Mansudae Fountain Park

Water park with several fountains and

sculptures; popular for wedding phot

- open every day


“ Pyongyang is a city in a park ”

PYONGYANGCapital, centre of polical power, and the country’s largest city




Party Founding Museum

This building formerly housed the Party’s

Central Commiee HQ aer its founding in

1945; includes a visit to Kim Il Sung’s former

oce

- open on weekdays

Underground Revoluon Museum

(AKA Metro Museum)

An absolutely enormous museum with a

great number of rooms describing the con-

strucon of the Pyongyang Metro

– open on weekdays

Korean Central History Museum

Arfacts from various dynases of

Korea, such as Koryo, Koguryo, Shilla,

dang back to Neolithic mes

–open on weekdays

Korean Folklore Museum

Features exhibits on tradional cooking, ag-

riculture, clothing, etc.


Kim Il Sung University Museum

Kim Jong Il’s alma mater is now a museum

dedicated to his studies there (the new Uni-versity is next door). It is possible to see

where he sat, studied, etc in his university

days


Tomb of King Tongmyong

Reconstructed tomb of the founder king of

the Koguryo dynasty lies in a picturesque

countryside seng

– open every day

Tomb of King Tangun

Monolithic reconstructed tomb of the

mythical founder king and originator of the

Korean race

– open every day

Old City Walls and Gates

Relics (some reconstructed) of Pyongyang’s

history as a walled city

– open every day

Pyongyang Embroidery Instute

Located at the foot of the towering Ryu-

gyong Hotel (105 storey pyramid) this

showcases the Korean art of needlework –

open every day

Railway Museum

Museum showcasing the electricaon of

the DPRK’s railway


Pyongyang Golf Course

DPRK’s only full sized 18-hole course; a well-

situated and challenging course. Clubs can

be rented at the clubhouse and caddies are

provided as part of the green fee

– open every day – 120 EUR approx

Pyongyang Zoo

Zoological gardens outside the city to the

north, housing animals from domesc cats

to elephants

– open everyday

Botanical Gardens

Located next to the zoo, the gardens where

all manner of plants and owers are grown

– open every day

Pyongyang Folk Village (Mini Pyongyang)

This area lies just outside the city and

features scale models of many of

Pyongyang’s ancient and modern buildings,

including a 5 metre version of the Ryugyong

Hotel. Take a city tour in just an hour! -

Open every day (EUR 13)

Pizza Restaurant

Trained by Italian chef’s. Pizzas with a hint

of Korean avour (No Hawaiian Pizza!)

Paradise Department Store

A department store open to foreigntourists. This is a hard currency shop

and although not representave of a

typical local shopping experience, it is

the closest you are allowed

- open every day except Tuesday

Paradise Bar

On the top oor of the department store

is a micro-brewery that accepts foreigners;

try a variety of beers brewed on the spot

– open every day, but aer 6p.m.

yongyang Circus

one hour circus show - very entertaining

ncluding clowns, trapeze arsts, jug-

ers and much more. Pyongyang has two

rcuses; the Military Circus (no animals)

nd the State Circus – enquire for opening

mes (20 EUR)

Mangyongdae / Kaeson / Taesongsan /

ungnado Funfairs

yongyang’s main funfairs; best chance to

mingle with the locals and go on some

xcing rides – open on Sundays and public

olidays - Kaeson funfair is open evenings

nly, every day except Monday (1 EUR

ntry fee and 1-3 EUR per ride)

orean Film Studio

Where the revoluonary and historical

pics shown on DPRK TV and in cinemas

re made. Visit mock-up sets of various

ountries and periods

open on weekdays

iennese Coee Shop

ocated on Kim Il Sung square in the heart

f the city this is a good spot to stop for

efreshments and a piece of cake. Opened

with foreign investment in one of the rare

ases of European businesses operang in

he DPRK

iplomac Club

ewly renovated complex featuring a res-

aurant, swimming pool, bar, karaoke etc,

is possible to arrange to go there in t he

vening for some nightlife

orean Revoluon Museum

as exhibits portraying the an- Japanese

truggle from 1905-1945; relics from that

me, maps, Panoramas, etc

open on weekdays

Walk along River Taedong from Kim Il

Sung square

A pleasant stroll of varying lengths along

the west bank of the river - every day

Korean Central Art Gallery

Located on Kim Il Sung Square, this gallery

has exhibions of art from 4th Century up

to modern socialist realism works

– open weekdays

Pyongyang Hospitals

Tour the facilies, including the surgery

rooms, of the Pyongyang Maternity

Hospital or the Kim Manyu General

Hospital - open on week days

3 Revoluons Exhibion

Various exhibion halls showing the

achievements from the Technological,

Cultural and Ideological revoluons


Middle and Senior Middle Schools

Short tour in Moranbong, June 9th, or Kang

Bang Suk Middle School (NEW!), touring

classrooms and ending with a charming

small performance

– open on weekday aernoons.

Pyolmuri Coee Shop

Pyongyang’s rst foreign owned coee

shop – open every day (usually closed the

day aer a naonal holiday)

Grand People’s Study House

Enormous library / public University build-

ing modelled in tradional Korean style

with great views over Kim Il Sung Square –

open on weekdays

Walking and picnic at Ryonggak

Mountains

A 45-minute walk to the top to see the

view over Pyongyang city, and/or a bar-beque picnic in woodland surroundings -

open every day

Taedonggang No 3 Bar

Located near the Juche Tower - open every

day (possible to eat / have meal here)

Golden Lane Bowling Centre

Where Pyongyangers go for their ten-pin

x; also has some early 90s arcade games –

open every day but best visited on Sundays

and late aernoons (2.5 EUR per game)




Shoong Range

Shoot at targets with low calibre sports

pistols and ries in the facility that

trained Olympic medalists. There is also a

bar – open every day but best visited in

aernoon (0.5-1 EUR per bullet)

Changwangwon Health Complex

Pyongyang’s main sports centre with

Olympic-sized pool among other

facilies. It is possible to have a hair cut

or a swim here - Saturdays only

Taedonggang Brewery Bar

Formerly located in the UK, this is where

DPRK’s most popular beer is produced,

and now possible to get a chance to

sample their produce

Youth Hotel Swimming Pool

Pyongyang’s only outdoor pool is very

popular with locals in summer; barbeque

is available here too

– only open in Summer

Pyongyang Sweet Meat Restaurant

Good for dinner, all kinds of dog dishes

East Pyongyang Department Store

Another department store that accepts

hard currency; mainly sells importedgoods – open every day

Jonsong Revoluonary Site

Preserved system of tunnels used as a

warme base by Kim Il Sung in the 1950s

Koryo Tradional Medicine Clinic

Hospital specialising in tradional Holisc

Korean treatments

Military Exhibion Centre (The Exhibi-

on House of Military Hardware of the

Korean People’s Army)

Inaugurated on April 14, 2012, the house

exhibits thousands of pieces of weapons

and combat equipment, ranging from

small rearms to arllery pieces, tanks,

armoured vehicles, warships and aircra

- Check with us about possibility to visit

Hana Electronics Restaurant

English menu, Korean and some western

food. Some Hana electronics products

are sold here too (DVD player, mini-TV,

Karaoke speakers)

.koryotours.com - 22 - INFORMATION ON TRAVEL TO THE DPRK (NORTH KOREA)

Mirim Equestrian Centre

Mirim is a suburb of Pyongyang about 20

mins drive from the city centre. In 2014

PRK’s rst horse riding centre opened

ere; it’s a large facility with indoor and

utdoor tracks, buildings for locals to

earn about horses, and a museum dedi-

ated to the relaonship between the Kim

amily and their horses. Visitors here can

de horses and ponies and all skill-levels

an be accommodated. Safety equipment

uch as helmets are provided.

Munsu Waterpark

uilt at breakneck speed in 2013 and

ocated on the former site of Munsu

unfair, this waterpark is spread over a

ery large area and has both indoor and

utdoor secons. Featuring several pools,

waterslides, a wave pool, various saunas,

gym, climbing wall, several restaurants

nd bars, entry incudes rental of swim-

ming costume and towels etc. A greatlace to pass a half or full day of leisure.

ery popular with Pyongyang’s middle

asses. Open year round, with the out-

oor part closed in the colder months.

umrong Leisure Complex

ocated right next to the Golden Lane

owling centre this complex features a

hoong range (10m range, air ries and

r pistols), squash courts (the rst in the

ountry), a dance studio, swimming pool,

auna, as well as a restaurant , bar, and

ast food snack bar.

yugyong Health Complex

eaturing a large indoor ice-skang rink

s well as an outdoor roller-skang and

kateboarding park this centre also oers

ing pong, a gym for working out, as well

s a range of sauna and massage opons.

n weekends it can get very crowded in-

eed and has become one of Pyongyang’s

main leisure facilies since its compleon

n 2013




ACCOMMODATION IN PYONGYANG – HOTELS (EXCLUSIVE – CLASSIC – STANDARD)

POTONGGANG HOTEL YANGGAKDO HOTEL SOSAN HOTEL

DELUXE CLASSIC STANDARD (these do not have 24-hr water)

DELUXE CLASSIC STANDARD (these do not have 24-hr water)

STANDARD (these do not have 24-hr water)

Highest standard hotel in the DPRK:

- Very comfortable rooms

- Quiet locaon by Potong River

- Karaoke room

- Variety of bars and restaurants

- Shops with imported goods

- Riverside walk is possible

- CNN TV

- IDD

Pyongyang’s main deluxe hotel.47 storeys tall

and built in 1995. Situated on Yanggak Island

on the Taedong River:

- Swimming pool, sauna, massage

- Bowling, Karaoke, Billiards

- Revolving restaurant. Micro-brewery

- Bookshop, IDD, Nightclub & Casino

- Chance to walk outside the hotel

- BBC TV news channel

Located in the Sports Village in west

Pyongyang; a rst-class hotel:

- Swimming pool & sauna

- Golf driving range

- Several bars

- Billiard room

- Karaoke

- Pleasant hotel grounds

- View of the sports village

CHANGWANG GUESTHOUSE

Bouque hotel in central Pyongyang

(This hotel is located opposite the Koryo Hotel)

- Quiet but central seng

- Guaranteed peaceful me

- Bath & Shower

- TV & DVD Player (No internaonal TV)

- Bar / Coee Shop

- Restaurant next to the hotel

KORYO HOTEL

Pyongyang’s other deluxe hotel built in 1985.

Located near the railway staon in the city

centre:

- Lobby bar and coee shop,

- Revolving restaurant, Beer brewed on site

- Swimming pool & gym

- Karaoke & Billiards

- Bookshop

- IDD & BBC TV news channel

RYANGGANG HOTEL

Located near sports village in west Pyongyang

- Bar

- Karaoke & billiards

-Table-tennis

- Sauna

- Revolving restaurant

CHANGWANGSAN HOTEL

Centrally located rst-class hotel:

- Large swimming pool with skylight

- Karaoke rooms

- German coee shop, Several small bars

- Walking distance to some aracons




> 30 mins north of Pyongyang

PYONGSONGOpened for western tourists in 2013

WHERE TO STAY?

Jangjusan Hotel

Only hotel in Pyongsong for tourists,

also one of the most fun in the whole

country! Basic facilies, some updated

in 2012. Fairly reliable electricity and hot

water. Indoor and outdoor bars which

never seem to close. Lots of sta who

speak English very well. Bookshop in the

lobby

Paeksong Revoluonary Site

10 mins drive from the city this countryside

area is where Kim Il Sung University was

moved to during the US bombing campaign

during the Korean War, tour the old class-

rooms and hear about how the studentslived at that me. Also has a statue of the

President on site.

Anguk Budhist Temple

Dang from the 6th century this beauful

Buddhist Temple managed to survive the Ko-

rean War undestroyed (a fate not shared by

most other temples throughout the country)

and so retains its ancient style and architec-

tural structure

Pyongsong Provisions Producon Factory

A Factory producing a range of foods and

drinks; biscuits, cakes, soju, candy etc. Here

you can try their wares and have a tour of

the producon facilies

Kim Jong Suk Higher Middle School

One of the most interesng schools to visit

in the DPRK. The English class here is great

fun and oers an amazing opportunity to

mingle with language students, who are

normally very keen to try out their skills with

you.

Pyongsong SquareThe city’s central square, with a statue of

President Kim Il Sung. Laying owers here is

customary.

Pyongsong Revoluonary Museum

Has halls of exhibits explaining the history

of this area during t he an-Japanese period.

Located next to Pyongyang Square

Ponghak Brewery Plant

Ponghak is one of the largest beer brands

in the DPRK, and the factory is located just

outside of town. Not always open to visitors

but ask us in advance and we can look into

it for you!




> 2.5 hour drive from Pyongyang

KAESONGThe old capital city of the Koryo Dynasty | Known as the home of insam (ginseng)

WHERE TO STAY?

Minsok Folk Hotel

Tradional style hotel where guests

sleep on heated oors in Korean-style.Beauful seng with stream running

through centre and gorgeous Li dynasty

furniture. Very basic bathroom facilies.

Hot water not guaranteed. Errac elec-

tricity supply – please bring a torch.

Janamsan Hotel

A basic hotel oering a more typical

DPRK experience with standard accom-

modaon (i.e. not tradional style like

Minsok). Friendly sta with a bar and

bookshop. Limited hot water and pos-

sible power cuts.

Panmunjom/DMZ

Truce village that spans both sides of the

DMZ, marking the division between North

& South Korea, where soldiers from both

sides go toe-to-toe and nose-to-nose, open

everyday (except Saturday), morning only.

Concrete Wall

An-tank barrier erected on the Southern

boundary of the DMZ, seen in the North

as evidence of the intent to permanently

divide the naon, open everyday

Tomb of King Kongmin

Twin-domed tomb of the 31st King of the

Koryo dynasty and his Mongolian wife is

set at the end of a picturesque valley, open

everyday

Kaesong Koryo Museum

(Sungyangwan Academy)

Comprises more than 20 buildings with the

typical features of a Confucian educaonal

instute of that me. Koryo Museum has

a collecon of historical objects, including

statues and porcelain, open everyday

Kaseong Park and Kwandok Pavillion

A small tower which oers views down

into Kaesong old town, features a statue of

President Kim Il Sung, open everyday

Sonjuk Bridge

Site of the 1215 assassinaon of Jong

Mong Ju by Ri Song Gye which brought an

end to the Koryo Dynasty, open everyday

Kaesong Schoolchildren’s Palace

Where the highest-achieving local children

come to hone their skills in music, dance,

sports, mechanics, taxidermy, and more!

- open on weekdays, aernoon

Cooking demonstraon

At the Minsok hotel, chefs show how Ko-

rean food was made in days gone by; have

a go at making rice cakes with a giant mal-

let! – Opon available if you stay overnigh

(surcharge: EUR 5 per person)

Pakyon Falls

37m high waterfalls situated 25 km outsid

of Kaesong, very relaxing wooded area

where it is possible to take a picnic, in

warmer weather a dip in the natural round

pool beneath the falls is recommended

Anhwa Temple

Located on Mt. Songak rising above Kae-

song city, has several halls and a seven sto

rey pagoda, rarely visited by tourists. Mt.

Songak is believed by Koreans to look like

pregnant woman lying down on her back




> 1 hour drive west of Pyongyang

NAMPOPort on the west coast and a gateway to Pyongyang

WHERE TO STAY?

Ryonggang Hot Spa Hotel

Compound with holiday houses and a

main building for dinner and entertain-

ment. Spa bath in every room with wa-

ter coming from Mount Sindok spring

– the most famous mineral water in the

DPRK. Billards and karaoke

Chonsamri co-operave farm

Farm located on the way to Nampo from

Pyongyang where the Chonsamri method

(they will explain!) was developed; demon

strates how cooperave farming works in

DPRK – open everyday

West Sea Barrage

An 8 kilometre barrage constructed for

oodprevenon, land-reclamaon, and

power generaon at the mouth of the Tae

dong /River, one of DPRK’s greatest feats

of engineering – can be visited between 1

a.m. to 6 p.m.

House of Kim Ung So

Former home of hero general famous for

defending against the Japanese during the

Koryo dynasty – open every day

Wau Islet

Scenic spot perfect for relaxaon during

warmer months with swimming and div-

ing areas available and pavilions aording

beauful views

Kangso Mineral Water Factory

The only facility producing naturally car-

bonated boled water in the country, tast

stu that will cure any hangover! – passed

by the management! – open on weekdays

Chollima Steelworks

A major heavy industry site for the Demo-

crac People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK),

this place was built by the Japanese and

is known to Koreans as the birthplace of

the Chollima movement, which even todaydrives the country. If you’ve always wanted

to witness the making of ‘Juche Steel’ in a

giant facility, come to Nampo with us. This

is the DPRK’s most famous factory, and as

always, Koryo Tours are the

rst company to be allowed to take tour-

ists inside. But Koryo has its own Chollima

connecon; we can tell you about the art

project we arranged at the steelworks as

well as the scenes we shot there for our

new feature lm!

Tae’an Glass Factory

This opened in 2005 with heavy Chinese

investment, in fact, the Peoples’ Republic

of China President Hu Jintao aended the

opening ceremony along with DPRK leader

Kim Jong Il. Tae’an produces glass and glass

products for the domesc market. Koryo

tourists will be the rst visitors ever to

watch the process from smelng to sheet-

cung, and even try to break a sheet of

strengthened glass!

Tae‘an Heavy Machine Tool ComplexThis enormous complex boasts a number

of hangarsized buildings; we will see the

vast range of machine tools, lathes and so

on that the workers use to make shaped

steel, turbine components, and other

products.

Nampo Orphanage

Where parent-less children are raised (we

are currently working on a charity project

and are grateful for any donaons – please

contact us for more details)

– open everyday




> You can drive through this area en route from Nampo to Kaesong (or as part of a trip to Haeju)

> Approximately 6 hours including stops & lunch

SINCHON& SARIWONA scenic spot on the West Coast

WHERE TO STAY?

March 8th (Women’s Day) Hotel

Basic Facilies

-Limited hot water

-Bar

Woljong Buddhist temple

Built in the middle of the 9th century and later rebuilt, the present temple dates from

the beginning of the Yi Dynasty (15th century)

– open everyday

Sinchon Village and Museum of US War CrimesDedicated to the “crimes commied by the US imperialists”. The museum has an array

of gruesome exhibits and is not recommended for overly sensive types. Sensivity is

called for here more than most other places in the DPRK


Sariwon Folk Village

Mock-up of a tradional Korean village which includes a territorial map of Korea’s

cultural ruins, historical relics, the Provincial History Museum, Food Street, various pavil-

ions and houses in the me of the Ancient and Middle era of the country

–open everyday

NOTE ON ACCOMMODATION: There is no accommodaon available in Sinchon or the Mt

Kuwol area; however, you can stay in nearby Sariwon (US cizens are unfortunately not

permied), or visit en route from Nampo to Kaesong

MOUNT KUWOL,




HAEJULocated in the middle western part of Korea

WHERE TO STAY?

Haeju Hotel

Basic, clean accommodaon but a

lile worn around the edges but what

a place to stay - away from the tourism

route and with a statue of DPRK leader

Kim Il Sung in the square outside the

main door (not possible for US tourists)

Gyenam Stock Farm

Livestock farm for goats, cows, and rab -

bits. See milk processing and methane gas

producon

– open everyday

Haeju Buyong Pavilion

Inside Haeju city, DPRK’s biggest pavilion,

originally built in 1500

– open everyday (30 min visit)

Koryo Fortress

Situated above a split 120m waterfall the

defensive fortress was built at the me of

the Koryo Dynasty

– (Sightseeing and trekking takes approx 2 hrs)

Sokdam Ravine

Features historical remains such as the

16th century Sohyon School, stone tombs,

and medicinal water spring – open everyday (sightseeing takes 1 hr)

> 2.5 hour drive south of Pyongyang (it is possible to stay overnight)

> 1 hour drive south of Sariwon




> 2 hour drive north of Pyongyang

MT. myohyang“Mountain of Mysterious Frangrance”

WHERE TO STAY?

Hyangsan HotelThe fanciest hotel in the DPRK

since its renovaon in 2010. Only

hotel in DPRK with internet access

and other “7-star” facilies. Please

contact us for rates

Chongchon Hotel

Standard hotel in Mt. Myohyang.

Basic but clean - Bar and karaoke

Huichon Hotel

30 minute drive north of Mt

Myohyang. Standard hotel

Internaonal Friendship Exhibion

A series of enormous subterranean exhibi-

on rooms housing gis gi ven to the DPRK’s

leaders by foreign polical gures, notable

gures, policians and organisaons

– open everyday except Sunday, morningonly

Pohyon Buddhist Temple

Historical holy temple that originates from

1042, but has been rebuilt oen. Beauful

pagodas and temple buildings

– open everyday

Manpok Valley Walk

Up and down the mountains on a trail pass-

ing waterfalls and unusual rocks set in a

stunning landscape. A 1-2 hour walk (l onger

hikes available)

– open everyday

Ryongmun & Paengryong Caves

Natural grooes on the road from Mount

Myohyang back towards Pyongyang. A vast

array of stalactes and stalagmites com-

bined with colourful local legends about the

place make it an interesng stop

– open everyday, 40 min drive from Mt.

Myohyang




> 4 hour drive east of Pyongyang

> best combined with Mt Kumgang and/or Hamhung

WONSANMarime city bordering the East Sea of Korea

WHERE TO STAY?

Dongmyong Hotel

Basic facilies. Limited hot water. Bar

and billiards. Stunning sea views. Well

situated for sea side walk.

Kalma Hotel

For those wanng a lile more comfort

this hotel with its private beach oers

just that. Upgraded rooms (some even

have private jacuzzis), facilies such

as ping pong and billiards and beach

equipment available. This hotel requires

a surcharge - contact us for details.

Local co-operave farm

A persimmon farm which accepts foreign

visitors, ideal for those interested in the

agricultural system in DPRK

– open everyday

Ulim waterfalls

Discovered by KPA soldiers blasng

through a valley in 2001, the Ulim (‘echo’)

falls area is o the highway on the way

back to Pyongyang; a peaceful and tranqu

place with opportunity to take a dip in the

pool at the foot of the waterfall

– open everyday

Wonsan city docks

See the former Mangyongbong-92 pas-

senger ship to Japan moored here, which

embarked on its maiden cruise from Rason

to Kumgang in August – September 2011;

the statue of the President overlooking theharbour shows the importance of this port

to the DPRK

– open everyday

Oriental Park

Popular on weekends with boang couples,

this scenic park allows for a relaxing stroll

in the centre of the city

– open every day

Songdowon Beach

Clean water and sand here make for a

peaceful and relaxing break; clam BBQs

also possible (EUR 2 entry fee – surcharge

for BBQ)

- open everyday

Songdowon Schoolchildren’s camp

Where local and internaonal children

spend some weeks in summer playing and

learning in a classic socialist instuon

- Open July to October

Wonsan Agricultural University

Housed in beauful surroundings, tour thelecture rooms of this important educaon-

al instuon and meet students set to be-

come the agricultural leaders of the future

– open every day during the semester

Former Railway Staon Revoluonary Site

A revoluonary site housing the preserved

Japanese colonial era staon and waing

rooms as well as the steam train which Kim

Il Sung rode on to Pyongyang in triumph

upon the liberaon of the country in 1945.

Across the road are a series of giant por-

traits of Kim Il Sung, Kim Jong Il, and Kim

Jong Suk




3.5 hours by road from Pyongyang, 30 mins by road from Wonsan

MASIK RYONGOpened in January 2014. The rst major ski resort i n the DPRK

WHERE TO STAY?

Masik Ryong Hotel

Newly opened and very well equipped

hotel, a very nice place to stay (has

internet too for anyone looking to

email their friends, or tweet from the

middle of North Korea).

The major presge project of the Kim Jong

Un-era has been the construcon of this ski

resort, built in just 18 months and opened

to tourists in January 2014. The hotel here

is one of the best in the country and fea-

tures in-room internet available to tourists.

There are medical sta at the ski resort and

4 medical centres as well, but the care they

can oer and the facilies that they have

are rudimentary when compared to those

at most ski centres worldwide. It is there -

fore imperave that all visitors going skiing

in North Korea take a sensible approach to

it.

You can go to the top of the mountain even

if you don’t ski down, you can get amazing

photos and a wonderful experience without

having to do anything you aren’t capable of.

Be careful!

We oer an extension to the Masik Pass

Ski Resort for group tours that are in the

country during the ski season, or visit the

city of Wonsan, alternavely you can add

a trip to the Ski Resort to any independent

tour, please contact our tour managers for

more informaon.

Be one of the very rst visitors to try outthis much-reported but lile-seen place.

In addion to the tour fee you will have to

pay on the spot for your ski pass and for

rental of any ski equipment.

A ski pass is approx. 30 EUR per day

To rent the full ski kit (helmet, goggles,

gloves, jacket, trousers, skiskis, poles) costs

12 EUR per day. If you only need some parts

of this kit then the cost decreases.

Snowboards are also available

Ski season will be:

every year. It’s possible to visit the ski

resort even in the o-season for a lookaround and a hike in the hills.

Made up of 9 main ski runs with 2 bunny

slopes to accommodate all levels of ability

On site skis can be rented, as well as snow

boards, ski-doo rides, and ski lessons.

It is ne to take your own clothes and

equipment, if you are larger than a 38 - 40

waist then the trousers they have will not

be large enough for you. They do have

large ski boots though (up to Dennis Rod-

man size!).

November - March



Lake Sijung and Guesthouse

En route from Wonsan to Kumgang, this

guesthouse specialises in hot mud treat-

ments using substances direct from Lake

Sijung. Swimming and shing also possible

– open every day

Local Beach

Even less crowded than Wonsan Beach

(i.e. nobody!) – a great way to spend a few

hours – open everyday

Temples, hermitages, unusually shaped

rocks. Kumgang Mountains are doed with

such buildings and depending on the state

of the access roads at the me of your visit,

you can see some of these sites, many of

which have historical and religious relevance

– open everyday

Kumgangsan Revoluonary Museum

The an-Japanese exploits of those who

fought against colonialism in this area

– open on week days (double-check with us)

Samil Lagoon

Large body of water with a hiking trail

around the edge aording lovely views

and Korean inscripons on the rock face,

swimming here is possible when weather

permits, a hike here takes around 45 mins

to 1 hour. Fans of Revoluonary acvieswill be pleased to nd a buoy oang in the

water marking the spot where Kim Jong Suk

(wife of Kim Il Sung and mother of Kim Jong

Il) is known to have demonstrated her pistol

shoong abilies by hing a oang target

from several hundred metres away.

Kuryong Waterfall

The most famous of all DPRK’s waterfalls this

74m high feature requires a round trip hike

of around 3 hours. A local legend has it that

9 dragons lived in the lake at the foot of the

falls and it is aer this story that the area is

so named (kuryong means nine dragons)


> 1.5 hour drive from Wonsan

MT. kumgang“A complex of scenic spots represenng all beaues of nature”

WHERE TO STAY?

Kumgangsan Hotel

Situated inside the Mt Kumgang tourist

area amongst the stunning mountain

scenery. Internet access possible from

business centre. Very comfortable rooms

and good facilies

Sijung Guesthouse

Basic facilies. Limited hot water. Near-

by scenic lake. Around 1 hour drive from

Mt. Kumgang

OUTER KUMGANGSAN

Formerly run as a tourist resort for visi-

tors from South Korea by the Hyundai

Asan company but closed in 2008 due to

the shoong of a South Korean tourist

under mysterious circumstances, this

area is now accessible from the DPRK

proper. Known as Korea’s most beau-

ful mountain range, the well-maintained

hiking trails oer scenery unparalleled

anywhere else on the enre peninsular.

It is possible to do hikes from as lile as

one hour up to a full day.

Also visit Samil Lagoon and Kuryong

Waterfall in the Mamulsan area for some

more hiking from pavilion to pavilion and

the possibility of a swim in the warm wa -

ters; for fans of Revoluonary acvies

you’ll nd a buoy oang in the water

marking the spot where Kim Jong Suk

(wife of Kim Il Sung and mother of Kim

Jong Il) is known to have demonstratedher pistol shoong abilies by hing

a oang target from several hundred

metres away.

Star Kumgang Lake

A charming lake on the outskirts of the

mountains; tall clis on one side, trees on

the other (1-hr hiking possible here)

– open every day




> 3 hour drive North of Wonsan

hamhungIndustrial city on the East Coast

WHERE TO STAY?

Majon Beach Guesthouse

This holiday compound is comprised of

basic but comfortable chalets just sec-

onds from the beach and a main building

with restaurants and entertainment facili-es (bar, billiards, table-tennis, bookshop,

Korean karaoke only); power outages and

lack of running water should be expected

Sin Hung San Hotel

In a more central locaon as an alterna -

ve to Majon, this hotel has fairly basic

hotel facilies but does have running

water (no 24-hr hot water though)

Majon Hotel

One of the best hotels in the DPRK, this is

a perfect luxury opon for those wanng

more comfort. Just along the coast from

the Majon Beach Guesthouse, this hotel

which opened in 2011 has a private beach

and plenty of facilies such as bowling

and karaoke. Requires surcharge - contact

us for details.

Hamhung History Museum

This rather run down building shows

regional history from ancient to modern

mes, focussing mainly on dynasc Korea

and struggles with foreign aggression

Majon Beach

Site of a guesthouse complex 20 min-

utes from the city centre which ma kes

a pleasant place to stay for visitors who

have made the long journey up the coast

to visit Hamhung, this is a peaceful area

provides opportunity for swimming and a

beach barbeque (extra cost)

– open every day

Pujon Stone River

Located a 3 hour drive from Hamhung

along a stunning and interesng route

with plenty of small towns and country-

side, this stone river (made of rocks) is

a must for geology bus; from the base

camp (hut where you have lunch) it takes

10 mins to walk to the river and there are

slogan trees there too. Approx 1 hour to

get to top of mountain from base camp.

Pujon Revoluonary Site

Situated at the second highest peak in th

country this site was occupied by a n-

Japanese guerrillas, amazing views from

this elevated area also

Kim Il Sung & Kim Jong Il Statue and

fountain park

Set on a hillside on the edge of town next

to the Revoluonary Museum, this area

aords views over the city centre and

farmland outside of the metropolitan

- open every day

Hungnam Ferliser factory

A rare chance to see a bit of heavy industry

in North Korea, tour the museum at the

factory where Kim Il Sung made his famous

quote ‘Ferliser is rice, and rice itself, is

communism.”

- Museum open on weekdays

Home of Ri Song Gye

One of the rulers of ancient Korea, known

locally mainly for managing to lose most of

the territory of the country before being

overthrown, this preserved tradional style

house is where he lived out his days

– open every day

Hamhung Grand Theatre

The iconic building of the city, dominat-

ing the central area and bordered by a

pleasant lake and park, it’s interior can be

visited during performances that are open

to tourists – please ask for more details

Tongmyong co-operave farm

Visited several mes by DPRK Leader Kim

Jong Il this reasonably modern farm ac-

cepts tourists to see their ‘hall of fame’,

kindergarten, and crops

– open everyday

A major industrial city on DPRK’s east coast which was closed to tourists from 1945 un

2010 when Koryo Tours became the rst company to take people there, this fascinat -

ing city oers something very new even to people who have visited the DPRK before.

Although the roads to reach here are bumpy and winding, it is well worth the journey

for tours of a week or more; to go somewhere that so few foreign eyes have ever seen

is amazing in itself but there are also a number of aracons we can organise for you inthis place.




> The only way to get here is to charter a plane for a 1-hr ight from Pyongyang

> It is also possible to join one of our group tours scheduled to visit here in Aug and Sep

mt. paekdu / SAMJIYON The highest mountain in Korea - The sacred mountain

WHERE TO STAY?

Paegaebong Hotel

The only hotel in Mt. Paekdu area

- Basic hotel facilies

- Fairly reliable electricity

- Limited hot water

- No bar but there is a shop

that sells beers etc.

Samjiyon Grand Monument

The largest set of statues in the country

is laid out in the area where the guerrilla

army gathered to launch a crucial aack.

The centerpiece is a bronze statue of the

commander Kim Il Sung (the second big-gest statue in the country) and squads of

his soldiers are immortalised here too.

– open every day

Pochonbo Revoluonary Site

Pochonbo was the locaon of a Japanese

garrison that was aacked and destroyed

by Kim Il Sung’s guerrilla army in its rst

convenonal assault. Here you can see

the former command post, town hall, etc

from Japanese mes, as well as a statue o

Kim Il Sung.

- 1 hour drive from Samjiyon town

Mount Paekdu

Korea’s highest mountain and sacred birth-

place of the enre Korean naon boasts

the most stunning scenery in the enre

country; hike or take the funicular railway

to the top for spectacular views over LakeChon. Rarely visited and absolutely unfor-

geable. Visitable from late May to early

October. 90 -min drive from Samji Airport.

Lake Chon

The highest crater lake in the world sing

atop Mount Paekdu; walk down to the lake

to sample the crystal-clear water and walk

or take a cable car (EUR 10) back up to the

crater rim. Visitable from late May to early

October. 90-min drive from Samji Airport).

Rimyongsu Waterfall

With Lake Chon as its source, this natural

waterfall never freezes and provides hydro-

electric power to the neighbouring farming

village.

- Open every day.

Secret Camp

Held by the DPRK as the birthplace of

Kim Jong Il and the site of the HQ of Kim

Il Sung’s an-Japanese guerrilla army, see

slogan trees and the reconstructed huts of

the base there. Open every day (1-hr drivefrom Mt Paekdu).

Samjiyon Regional Museum

Exhibits and models of the area show the

scale of the acvies of the guerrillas in

the 1930s. Features a mul-media room.

- Open on weekdays.

Samjiyon Schoolchildren’s Palace

Local centre of excellence for children. A

small performance can be seen here.

- Open on weekday aernoons.




> Charter a plane from Pyongyang or Samjiyon (1 hour ight) or drive from Rason (please see Rason

secon on pg. 47)

> Best combined with Mt Paekdu and/or Chongjin. It is also possible to join one of our group tours

scheduled to visit here in Aug/Sep for just that part of the tour

mt. CHILBO‘Chilbo’ meaning ‘seven treasures’ is one of the DPRK’s most remote and scenic areas.

WHERE TO STAY?

Homestay Village

The only place in the country where

it is possible to stay in the home of a

local family in this village built specially

for the purpose. The people do really

live here - 14 families live in Koreanstyle houses and 6 families live in 3

European-style houses. Living areas for

guests include twin /single bedroom

and bathroom with running water.

Located in a beauful seng near a

3km sandy beach. US cizens unfortu-

nately are not permied to stay here,

and must stay in Outer Chilbo Hotel

(approx 20 mins drive)

Outer Chilbo Hotel

Beauful locaon. Basic facilies, but

comfortable. Bar

One of the DPRK’s most remote and scenic areas; see a vast array of peaks, rock forma -

ons and hear the colourful local legends associated with them. Perfect for lovers of

scenery.

Walks in Inner and Outer Chilbo

A number of walks of varying lengths are possible to see the area depending on theamount of me you have there.

Chilbo Beach

Perfect water for swimmers, it is also possible to rent a boat here for a few relaxing

hours; clam BBQ also available (extra cost) – open every day

Kaesim Temple

Beauful small temple complex located in the heart of the Outer Chilbosan area. A good

spot for photos, drinking crystal clear water from a well, and even buying a bole of soj

(odd at a Buddhist temple!) from the snack shack just outside. This is a common stop fo

local tourists as well and the guide/monk here can tell you the history of the place and

the history of Buddhism in the area too.




> You can get here by chartering a plane from Pyongyang or Samjiyon (1 hour ight)

> Best combined with Mt Paekdu and/or Mt Chilbo

> It is also possible to join one of our group tours scheduled to visit here in Aug and Sep for just that

part of the tour or it is also possible to drive from Rason (3 hours)

chongjin3rd largest city in the DPRK - Industrial city in the North East

WHERE TO STAY?

Chongjin Tourist Hotel

A basic but reasonably maintained place

with an excellent restaurant, the sashimi

here is terric (perhaps a testament to

the manager’s past as a Korean resident

of Japan?). The hotel doesn’t have hot

water in the bathrooms but it does

have a sauna block in which hot running

water, showers, etc are available for

visitors.

Gomalsan Guesthouse

Located on a small hill overlooking part

of the main bay of Chongjin this is a fas-

cinang place to stay the night, however

there are limited rooms so not always

available. The Guesthouse has open

balconies so aords some great pictures

of some of Chongjin’s small apartment

complexes as well as a pavilion over-

looking the bay. No hot running water

(also no sauna on site, you can be taken

to the Chongjin Seaman’s Club to use

the sauna and showers there though).

Revoluonary Museum

The main aracon in DPRK’s third larg -

est city (other than the city itself!) shows

exploits in the area, includes slogan trees

and reliefs of the surrounding areas – only

open on weekdays

Chongjin Central Square

Features the city’s main statue of the

President – open everyday

Steelworks Kindergarten School

For the children of steelworkers; see

classrooms and a performance – open on

weekdays, aernoon

Fishermen’s Club

Every port city in the DPRK has one of

these but only Chongjin’s can be visited

by tourists. A place for local people and

foreign seaman as well (featuring an eclec-

c selecon of drinks) this is essenally a

bar and place for relaxing aer the long

journey to Chongjin

Jipsam (3 Generals) Revoluonary Sites

1 hour from Chongjin very nice beach area

with shing villages at either end, possible

to have a walk and excellent place for a

swim. Spa facilies

Susongchon Combined Foodstu Factory

Newly available to tourists since 2013

thanks to the eorts of Koryo Tours this

factory, equipped with some very up-

to-date imported machinery, produces

biscuits, bread-products, and some candy

too. See the various working rooms and

try the produce, and then watch a per-

formance by the factory band - as good

as any professional group in the country

- they were even specially praised by Kim

Jong Il when he visited the factory shortly

before passing away in 2011.

North Hamgyong Province E-Library

Opened in 2012 this large building is well

equipped (at least by DPRK standards)

with banks of computers, all loaded with

science and technical manuals, language

lessons, and various vocaonal coursesthat visitors here can take advantage of.

See lectures, people playing around with

soware developing and photo-manipula-

on tools, and much more.

North Hamgyong Province Kimilsungia &

Kimjongilia Exhibion Hall

A newly constructed building right next to

the main square of the city which is built

to house exhibions of the sacred owers

named aer the leaders. If you visit here

when there are no ower shows on-going

you can see some photo exhibions and

also a model made of Chongjin as it is pro

jected to look in an unspecied number o

years. It’s a very opmisc plan with a lot

of high-rise shiny buildings, the guide here

can tell you what they will all be and you

can imagine how this will turn out!




Although there is a border to China at the edge of town it is not possible for western tourists to

cross here, so Hoeryong is a 90 minute drive from the Tumen border crossing and Chongjin lies

around 2 hours’ drive south from Hoeryong

HOERYONGCity which is famous for being the birthplace of Mother Kim Jong Suk. Opened to tourists in 2013

WHERE TO STAY?

Hoeryong Hotel

Basic Facilies. Limited Hot Water. Bar.

Excellent song and dance performance

by the waitresses

Central Square

Bounded by government and commercial

buildings the small main square is a great

place to start your visit. A bronze statue

of Hoeryong nave Kim Jong Suk (mother

of Kim Jong Il) stands at the head of thesquare. People come to honour her here

(she is known as the ‘Mother of Korea’)

Nave Home of Kim Jong Suk

A simple old fashioned house where

the heroic mother lived here for 5 years

from 1917 in two of the rooms, which is

preserved as an important historical site

inside a well-manicured and well main-

tained park

Hoeryong Revoluonary Museum

A large 3 oor museum opened in 1982

on the 65th birthday of Kim Jong Suk. The

exhibits here include slogan trees, charts,

maps, and details of the movements of

the Guerrilla Army through this area while

baling the Japanese occupaon in the

1930s

Kim Ki Song Secondary School

Hoeryong’s most well-known school in

Hoeryong and also the best-equipped.

Named aer the younger brother of Kim

Jong Suk. Tour the dierent class rooms

and see the kids during lessons. A high -

light of a visit here is to join in a foreign

language class.

Wangjaesan Revoluonary

History Museum

Contains halls of exhibits on the history of

then Korean Revoluon in this area; where

bales with the Japanese were fought,

and the signicant guidance given to local

farmers by Kim Il Sung on his visits too

Wangjaesan Grand Monument

Situated about a 90 minute drive from

Hoeryong but on the way to the city from

the border crossing into the DPRK, this is a

huge monument built in the 1970s depict

ing a young President Kim Il Sung leadinglocal farmers towards revoluon. The

Monument itself is made up of a central

tower topped by a Juche Flame, bronze

statues of the President and some farmer

advancing forward, and reliefs behind

the main statue of workers and farmers

advancing along with their leader, a truly

impressive construcon




Before 2014, Rason could only be visited from Yanji in China or Vladivostok in Russia. It is now pos-

sible to get there from Pyongyang via Chongjin. Extension by car from Rason to Chongjin and onto

Chilbo is also possible. Please contact us for further informaon or see our website

rasonRason Free Trade and Economic Zone - The least visited part of the least visited country in the world!

WHERE TO STAY?

There are three main hotels of basi-

cally the same standard – Namsan,

Rajin, and Chujin Beach Hotel. You can

choose which one you wish to stay in

and it is even ne to stay one night in

one hotel, then move to another the

next night etc; just let us know when

you book. You can also stay in the

Emperor Hotel for big $$$!

Taehung Trading Company

The largest company in Rason, trading in

seafood and mushroom wine, see industry

at work and sample the local produce

Sun Portraits

Large mosaic portraits of Kim Il Sung and

Kim Jong Il erected in 2013 as part of the

connuing Rajin beaucaon campaign.

Sonbong Texle Factory

Not the sweatshop that many people

expect, this is in fact a large and well laid-

out factory built with signicant Chinese

investment and located in the heart of the

city of Sonbong. It is possible for tourists to

wander around inside the halls lled with

sewing machines, cung machines, and

so on, take some pictures, see the boardsshowing how each work unit is doing. If

you happen to be on site around break-

me you can even get involved in a game

of basketball or volleyball in the large fac-

tory courtyard

Rason City Market

The only chance tourists have to visit a

genuine North Korean market, see what

the locals buy and pick up some bargains!

Pipha Island

Area of stunning scenery, chance to take a

boat out into the sea to see seals

Rajin Foreign Language School

A relavely modern secondary school

located in Rajin city which oers the best

chance for interacon in English with

young people, the standard of the English

(and Chinese and Russian) spoken by the

students here is excellent and they are

usually quite keen to chat with the tourist

who visit the school.

Rajin Shoe Factory

A Korean/American joint venture produc-

ing shoes for the domesc market, this

place knocks out 180,000 pairs of mainly

black shoes annually so look at the feet of

the people in this area, you may well be

looking at this factory’s produce! The driv

here through some of the more basic part

of Rajin is also interesng.

Hae’an Park

‘Coastal’ park is recently remodelled and

re-opened and where once there was a

load of overgrown sculptures, grass and

trees there are now manicured lawns,

benches, and a large paved walkway up

the middle of the park (entrance 5 RMB fo

tourists) to a roller skang track overlook

by a giant television showing all the news

that’s t to broadcast. Next to the skang

area are some bars and barbeque restau-

rants. You can even try out the roller-skate

if you can t into a pair.

Rason, comprised of the two small cies of Rajin and Sonbong, is located in the extreme

North East of the DPRK. Bordering on China and Russia this area was made a Special Eco

nomic Zone in 1993 with the aim of aracng foreign investment. In general this has not

occurred although the Macau-based Emperor group opened a mul-million dollar hotel

and casino which was very popular with Chinese tour groups unl the closure of the casi

due to Chinese regulaons in 2004. The main investments in the area are Chinese tradincompanies but there are also some western interests such as a pharmaceucal factory a

a vehicle hire company. Rason was the rst area in North Korea to have a ‘free market’

where local organisaons and farms oered their goods to customers, the rst to have a

mobile phone network, and is generally seen as an area where economic experimentao

takes place. We can take tourists to visit the Rason Golden Triangle bank where the dier

ence between the local economic rules and the naonal regulaons can be explained.




DPRK’s biggest border city, located on the Yalu River only 1km from China.

5 hours by train from Pyongyang, or 5 minutes by car from Dandong!

SINUIJU

Visit Sinuiju as an overnight extension for any group tours or independent tours, either

by train from Pyongyang or by travelling in from Dandong, China. Day trips to Sinuiju are

also sll available from Dandong if you don’t want to stay overnight. Unfortunately thes

tours are sll not available if you travel on a US passport. If this situaon changes we wi

of course let you know immediately. We remain hopeful that in the near future this will

become an opon for US cizens. Please be assured we are working hard to make thishappen.

Railway Square & President Kim Il Sung

Statue

Behind the newly renovated main staon.

A statue of Kim Il Sung showing his visit to

Sinuiju in 1945. First stop on any visit

Art Gallery

On the city’s main square. Upstairs are ex-

hibions by high-level painters, downstairs

is a variety of art for sale. Prices cheaper

than Pyongyang! Get your portrait painted

by a local arst for just a few EUR!

Folklore Park

A long thin park laid out on the west side

of the railway tracks as the train pulls into

Sinuiju staon. Great for a walk and to see

people relaxing or entertaining them-

selves. Has some games such as golf and

toy shoong ranges.

Sinuiju Kindergarten

Perhaps the most famous kindergartenin the DPRK as the students here are

renowned for their performance skills and

take centre stage in the Pyongyang Mass

Games A tour here concludes with a very

impressive propaganda performance.

3 Generals Mosaic Murals

Take a drive down to South Sinuiju, the

newer part of the city. These three large

mosaics of Kim Il Sung, Kim Jong Il, and

Kim Jong Suk stand in front of an apart-

ment building, a view of one of the new

bridges linking China and DPRK can be had

here too.

Myohyangsan Travel Company

The only restaurant open for tourists

which overlooks the river and gives a grea

view of Dandong. Also with a shop where

you can buy some local products such as

handbags!

Historical Museum

A must for anyone interested in the pre-

revoluonary history of Korea; its dynas

kings, development over the ages, and

so on. A few artefacts are displayed here

including the chance to climb inside a

replica tomb

North Pyongan Province Revoluonary

Museum

Large museum made up of several halls

located on the railway staon square.

Focussed mainly on the history of this are

in the 1930s up to the 1945 Liberaon.

Immortality TowerUpdated and erected in 2012. The slogan

on this tower, reads ‘the Great Leader

Comrade Kim Il Sung and the Great Leade

Comrade Kim Jong Il will be with us For-

ever’. Directly opposite the monument are

the ‘Sun Portraits’ – two mosaic murals

depicng the smiling visages of Kim Il Sun

and Kim Jong Il, surrounded by Magnolias

WHERE TO STAY?

Amnokgang Hotel

The only hotel for tourists

in the city centre:

• Basic Hotel facilies

• Fairly reliable electricity

and hot water

• Several bars and cafes

• Interesng bookshop




North Korea-themed extension of the tour in the Chinese border city of Dandong

dandong

Dandong Tour 2:

(48 hours extension to the tour,2 nights in

Dandong and 1 on the train)

In addion to Tour 1, you will have a

chance to explore the China/DPRK border

area, up and down the Yalu/Amnok river,

Visits include:

• Hekou Broken Bridge

• Shui Feng Hu dam

• Tai Ping Wan Dam

• Speedboat trip and more!

Dandong Tour 1:

(24 hours extension to the tour, 1 night in

Dandong and 1 on the train)

• Great Wall at Tiger Mountain (the

most Eastern part that overlooks DPRK

(North Korea))

• Boat Trip (CNY 20) at the narrowest

point between China and DPRK (North

Korea) or Hiking up the mountain for

great views

• “Museum of War to Resist America

and Aid Korea” otherwise known as

Korean War Museum

• Dandong City, Chairman Mao Statue,

Shopping

• Boat Trip on Yalu River

• Walk along the “Broken Bridge”

Dandong; a fascinang small city on the Chinese side of the Yalu river, facing across

to Sinuiju, your point of exit from DPRK aer the tour. Instead of returning directly to

Beijing we are pleased to oer a one [Dandong Tour 1] and two-day [Dandong Tour 2]

fully-guided extension to the tour to take in all the sights of Dandong on a special North

Korea-themed extension. Please see our website for costs and instrucons on how to

apply. This extension, like our North Korea tours, is fully guided and fully inclusive. Notethat this extension is only available to those who travel out of the DPRK by train at the

end of the tour, or who y from Pyongyang to Shenyang on a Saturday or Wednesday.

The perfect way to end a tour of North Korea, and a unique look at a fascinang part of

China.

Highlights of these two extensions include:




FLIGHT/TRAIN TIMETABLE

Flights are operated by the DPRK naonal carrier Air Koryo or Air China. All of our tour costs are priced using Air Koryo ights; if you

use Air China, the price will be higher. Air Koryo ies from Beijing Capital Airport Terminal 2 and oers economy and business class.

Air China ies from Beijing Capital Airport Terminal 3 and oers economy and rst class (the laer limited to 8 seats).

NOTE: Some Air China ights do not operate o-season (approx Nov-Mar) so please check with us in advance. Flight schedule

(correct at me of wring) shows local me (North Korea is one hour ahead of China). Please be aware that Air China ckets at peak

mes tend to sell out fast and they do not add extra ights unlike Air Koryo. If you are intending to y with Air China, please book the

tour as soon as possible (ideally at least 4 weeks in advance). If, aer that me, the prices of the ckets rise we may have to pass on

any addional surcharge and if ckets are unavailable, a change in dates may be necessary.

VLADIVOSTOK (VVO) - PYONGYANG (FNJ) ights operate every Wednesday, TU3 (economy class only)

VVO-FNJ JS272 19:40 - 20:20 | FNJ-VVO JS271 09:10 - 11:40

TRAINS

Trains depart Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday.

Beijing to Pyongyang – depart 17:30 arrive c.19:00 next day

Pyongyang to Beijing – depart 10:40 arrive Beijing approx. 08:30 next day (Journey Time: 23 hours)

Pyongyang - Dandong operates daily

NOTE: Standard so sleeper cabins, four bunks. No smoking in carriage. Meals available from dining car.

Air China

Air Koryo

Air Koryo

Monday

Tuesday

Thursday

Sunday

Day: Carrier

Air Koryo

Air Koryo

Air Koryo

Air China

Air Koryo

-

CA 121

JS 152

JS 152

JS 152 JS 151

Flight Number

JS 252

CA 121

JS 152

-

13:40 - 16:20

12:00 - 15:00

13:00 - 16:00

13:00 - 16:00

15:00 - 17:10

Time

14:00 - 17:00

13:40 - 16:20

12:00 - 15:00

-

CA 122

JS 151

JS 151

Flight Number

JS 251

CA 122

JS 151

-

17:20 - 18:05

09:00 - 10:00

09:00 - 10:00

09:00 - 10:00

12:30 - 12:30

Time

10:30 - 11:30

17:20 - 18:05

09:00 - 10:00

-

Beijing - Pyongyang Pyongyang - Beijing

Wednesday

Saturday

Air China

Air Koryo

CA 121

JS 156 from Shenyang*

JS 156 from Shenyang* JS 256 from Shenyang*

13:40 - 16:20

15:00 - 17:10

CA 122

JS 256 to Shenyang*

17:20 - 18:05

12:30 - 12:30

Friday

These metables are correct at the me of publishing - April, 201

*we will book the Beijing-Shenyang/Shenyang-Beijing domesc ight if required




HOTOGRAPHY

hotography is possible but it is restricted. Bring as large a mem -

ry card as you will need for your trip – or more – as you might

ke more photos then you expect and it is dicult and expen-

ve to obtain memory cards in the country. Video cameras are

lowed but as they arouse more suspicion than regular cameras

ou need to be extra careful when using them. Cameras with

PS or GPS wrien on them technically cannot be brought in but

tely they have been more relaxed about this and it seems the

stricon has been unocially lied.

REE TIME

ou are free to walk around the grounds of the hotel but else-

here you must have your guides with you. On independent

urs you can slow down the pace if you wish – just ask the

uides. It is worth suggesng to the guides that you wish for a

roll along the river or in Moran Park, as the majority of travel-

ng between sights is by car/bus. They will accompany you but

is a great way to see life as ‘normal’. If you oer to leave your

mera on the bus etc the guides are oen a lot happier to give

ou more opportunies for walking.

USTOMS

he usual list of prohibited items applies ie; arms, drugs, pornog-

phy, etc. Immigraon ocers will examine your baggage and

ill frown on books/arcles about North Korea and books/maga-

nes from South Korea. Please do not bring in any item that may

sk conscaon – we can look aer these in our oce in Beijing

nl you return. If you wish to take in Bibles or other religious

aterial please contact us before you depart and we can advise.

OBILE PHONE/COMPUTER

om January 2013 it has been possible to take in mobile

hones. You can even buy a local sim card to make internaonal

lls (no texng) and even get 3G access but these are expensive

nd the 3G takes several days to set up so not good for short

ps. Computers can be taken in but make sure there is nothing

PRK-related on there (lms, arcles etc). You will not get any

i access.

GIFTS

You will be assigned two guides (usually one male and one

female) and a (male) driver when in the DPRK (we will tell you

their names before your tour). It is worth bringing in three rela-

vely good gis for these people who will be with you through -

out your trip. We suggest you give these during the rst few days

as a small gesture of thanks - this is in addion to the p that is

customary to give at the end of the tour. Also bring in luxuries

for yourself - it is an intensive trip - and it is also worth having a

good book to take me o!

TIPS FOR GUIDES

If you have enjoyed your tour you should show your appreciaon

by pping the guides and the driver. We recommend budgeng

EUR 5 per day total for group tour tourists and EUR 10-20 for

those on independent tours (to be split between the guides and

the driver).

BRING A BIT OF HOME TO SHOW THE KOREANS

We recommend you bring a selecon of photos to let them see

a lile of how you live. If you have a Polaroid camera the giving

of a photograph makes a great gi - or you can post photos to us

once you are back home and we will take them in next me wevisit.

CLIMATE

Korea has a temperate climate with disnct seasonal changes.

Early Spring (April) is sunny but chilly, late spring warms up con-

siderably. Summer (Jun to Aug/Sep) is hot and humid and is the

rainy season so do bring a light raincoat/umbrella. Autumn (Oct

to mid-Nov) has marked variaons between warm and cold but it

rarely rains. Winter (Dec to Feb/March) has clear skies, not much

snow in Pyongyang but it’s very cold! Best me to visit in terms

of weather is Spring and Autumn.

MEDICAL

It is sensible to bring a small personal rst aid kit – plasters,

aspirin etc - as these are not readily available. In case of mild

diarrhoea bring Immodium or acvated charcoal tablets (more

natural method) and oral rehydraon salts. Hospitals in the

DPRK can provide basic treatment. For more serious cases there

is a UN surgery in the diplomac compound and basic treat-

ment here is possible. If the situaon is very serious then your

insurance should cover repatriaon or a ight to an internaonal

hospital. Good internaonal-standard hospitals exist in Beijing

and Hong Kong. You must have adequate medical insurance and

personal insurance before vising DPRK.

SPENDING MONEY

Take EUR, USD or RMB cash into the DPRK. Ocial exchange

rates are around USD 1 to 100 won but foreigners are expected

to use foreign – not local – currency. Visa cards and other curren -

cies cannot be used so please make sure you take enough cash

to last you the whole trip. For spending money we would suggest

that around EUR 250-300 per person is ne (for a week-long

trip). Please note that this amount doesn’t take into account the

purchase of items such as Mass Games ckets (check for prices)

or expensive souvenirs like ceramics, painngs or gold coins!

MEALS

All meals are provided inclusive on the tour. You will have the

opportunity to try local dishes such as naemyong (cold noodles);

bulgogi (barbecued beef); kimchi (pickled cabbage). Local beer

and, on occasion, ginseng wine or soju rice wine are included

with meals. Boled spring water can be bought throughout the

DPRK and should be used – do not drink the tap water. You pay

separately for addional beer/water (both are included with

meals so please inform us if you do not drink alcohol). There is alimited menu for vegetarians but it is sasfactory – please inform

us beforehand.

POST AND TELECOM

IDD phone/ fax is available in most hotels, though calls/faxes are

monitored. Phone calls are expensive (and even more so from

the bedrooms) so check the rates before you call! Where pos-

sible, we will provide the relevant hotel phone number before

your tour so you can pass it on to loved ones, or once you’re

there a quick call can be made from the hotel to give them

your room number and they can ring you back. Best emergency

contact number to give family/friends is our oce number and

we can get a message through. Post can also be sent from most

hotels to all countries except South Korea (also monitored).

ELECTRICITY

220 volts two round pins or two at pins (dierent styles used

in dierent hotels!). Bringing an adaptor or even a mul-plug is

a good idea as the number of sockets in each room is limited. If

you forget then the room maids can oen nd one to lend you -

a small gi in this case would be appropriate.

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Please read the points below and inform us immediately if any

aect you:

1. Do you have any medical condion that could cause a prob -

lem in the DPRK?

2. Are you allergic to anything or do you take any medicaon

that we should be aware of?

3. Do you have personal travel insurance which covers you for

any medical /personal emergency in the DPRK, including

evacuaon? We cannot take you into North Korea without

this, so please inform us and we will arrange cover for you

(EUR 35 for max 7 days; EUR 45 for max 12 days). The insur-

ance is from AXA

4. Do you have a double (or mul) entry Chinese visa? If you

are not already based in China, you will enter China twice

for this tour so please inform us if you have any problem

obtaining a double-entry China visa or if 72-hour transit is

applicable.

5. If you are a professional or semi-professional journalist or

photographer, or you plan to professionally publish photos

or accounts of your tour, we cannot take you to the DPRK o

a tourist visa – please contact us and we can advise further.

6. Before your tour we will send you detailed preparaon

notes and behaviour guidelines for the DPRK. We will also

give you a brieng (1 hr max) at our oce the day before

your trip commences.

Temperature

(°C)

Precipitaon(mm)

Month Jan.

- 7.8 - 4.4 1.9 9.8 16.0 20.6 24.4

14.1 12.5 28.3 53.2 62.5 90.9 281.7

Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul.

24.4

247.9

Aug.

18.7

109.1

Sep.

11.6

42.2

Oct.

3.8

36.7

Nov.

-4.3

21.3

Dec.



QUOTE DETAILS

All prices fully inclusive: Beijing - Pyongyang return train/ight;

all travel within North Korea; meals; tour guides; entrance fees;

twin room accommodaon.

PLEASE NOTE the price excludes:

• DPRK Visa fee

• Flight exit surcharge

• Single room supplement (oponal)

• Tickets for special events such as Mass Games, circus, foot-

ball matches, etc

• Tips for guides/driver and gis such as western cigarees/

chocolate

• Meals on the train into/out of DPRK (bring your own food or

eat dinner and lunch in the buet car.

• Meals will have a complimentary beer but you will have to

pay for extra drinks aer those provided

• The li up the Juche Tower (EUR 5)

• Flowers to present at Mansudae Grand Monuments and

Revoluonary Martyrs’ Cemetery

• Special oponal foods (such as ginseng chicken or clam BBQ)

ITINERARY

Koryo Tours will do their best to ensure the inerary is the same

as the one we adverse, however, if on arrival there are changes,

we cannot be held responsible. Even in the case where we pro-

mote ‘special occasions’ such as Mass Games we cannot guar-

antee access to the event. We adverse and promote our tours

according to the advice given by the Korea Internaonal Travel

Company and their decision is nal.

VISAS

Each group tour has an applicaon deadline and all applica-

ons and the deposit are required by then. For independent

tours we require these at least 3 weeks in advance of travel but

earlier is beer. Please note that we cannot apply for your visa

or make any other arrangements without the deposit. We can -

not guarantee we can get you a visa or that the tour will not be

cancelled, however, our contacts in the DPRK give us priority and

the best opportunity of vising this remarkable country. Please

be warned that we cannot conrm visa issue unl it has

been stamped by the DPRK Consul in Beijing on the day before

your departure. Although it is extremely rare to have a visa appli-

caon refused, there is always a small chance of this happening.

If for any reason we cannot get you a visa Koryo Tours cannot

be held liable for the travel and hardship expenses incurred in

geng to Beijing. You will of course receive a full refund of any

money paid to Koryo Tours should this happen.

INSURANCE

We cannot be held responsible for any mishap to yourself or

your property and in parcular any consequence or eects of

ight/train cancellaon/delay, robbery, sickness, Government

intervenon or other such happenings. You are advised to insure

yourself against any possible risk that may occur and in parcula

to ensure that sucient insurance has been obtained in respect

of any dependant relaves.

It is your responsibility to be covered by insurance which must

include adequate cover for baggage, medical expenses and the

cost of repatriaon should you become too ill to connue. Any

claims must be directed to your insurers. If you have a medical

condion which may aect your health or safety in North Korea,

you must inform us before visa applicaon. If you don’t have a

travel insurance, this can be arranged at the pre-tour brieng in

our oce.


LET US TAKE YOU TO THE MOST MYSTERIOUS COUNTRY IN THE WORLD





002, Koryo Tours and VMS producons organized the return to

UK of the North Korean football team who in 1966 created the

test shock in World Cup by beang the Italian favourites. The

nt was the most signicant cultural exchange between DPRK and

ope. The team has not been seen together since 1966 - in fact

36 years the rumours had led us to believe we would never nd

e than one of the 1966 World Cup squad let alone get the eight

k to Middleborough, where they were welcomed by 30,000 fans

gave them a standing ovaon.

o Tours has worked closely with the fesval organisers to expand

improve the range of lms shown. The most popular were ‘Mr

n’ and ‘Bend it like Beckham’ (over 12,000 ckets were sold)

in 2010 the Brish Embassy together with Koryo Tours made it

rst European con lm broadcast throughout the country. We

take our tourists to the fesval and are able to aend the main

monies, lectures from Korean lm makers and actors, and watch

s with a local audience.

pyongyanginternaonallmfesval.com

ebruary of 2008 the historic visit of the New York Philharmonic

hestra to Pyongyang took place. This was a very signicant event

he people of North Korea as they were able to see and hear

concert was broadcast live throughout the the country on TV

radio). Classical standards alongside more contemporary pieces

also the naonal anthems of the two countries were performed.

yo Tours provided the orchestra with a brief on what to expect

ng their visit and aended the event.

ovember 2008 we arranged a school visit to Rungwa Primary

ool in Eastern Pyongyang for ART IN ALL OF US. This non-prot

nisaon aims to promote peace and foster awareness and toler-

e of other cultures between children from all over the world. The

ents in Pyongyang took photos of each other, drew pictures of

r country and wrote poems about the DPRK to try and explain to

dren from other countries what North Korea is like.

.cultural project

005 we organized the rst school trip to the DPRK for an inter -

onal school in Hong Kong. Since then, they have visited annually

we have also arranged trips for other schools in the Asia region.

students visit a local school and have the opportunity to inter-

with the Korean students there – genuinely life-changing for all

hose involved and very dierent from the average school-trip.

are always willing to take in more school groups and educaon-

ed visitors, just get in contact if you want to get involved in such

mportant project.

“ Dear Simon and Nick, thank you so much for all your work in arranging for our school group to

visit North Korea, the rst group of foreign students ever to visit DPRK. May I take this opportunity to thank

you for the for the wonderful job you both did in preparing our students for their experience, both through this

informaon and the insight you provided, and through the impeccable aenon to detail in your organisaon.

The students have had quite a life-changing experience, and we remain indebted to you for all your eorts on

our behalf. Needless to say, we are hoping to take another group of students to North Korea at the same me

next year, and I look forward to working with you both once again towards that purpose. “

- Dr. Stephen Codrington (2005)

O N G Y A N G I N T E R N A T I O N A L F I L M F E S T I V A L

W Y O R K P H I L H A R M O N I C O R C H E S T R A

E H E R O E S R E T U R N

T I N A L L O F U S I N T H E D P R K

H O O L P R O J E C T T R I P S



are always looking for sports teams to take into Korea and can arrange friendly and compeve matches with a variety of

organisaons; many sports are played to a decent or high level in North Korea and a tour by a basketball team, a

al arts squad, a ping pong delegaon, or even a chess team would be very worthwhile and welcome in the country, very

sworthy for the teams taking part as well. Contact us with any ideas or sports trips; none are too wacky to be considered!

HOCKEY

arranged for a team of Canadian and Scandinavian expats based in Beijing to take on

DPRK teams in a series of friendly but compeve m atches. It was our hardest sports

nt thus far to organise and was a genuine coup to pull o.

LF

004 and 2005 we organised the rst Pyongyang Friendship Golf tournament - odd we

w - but in our experience it is from projects like these that all sorts of posive links can

elop. The beauful 18 hole course is open to tourists!

.cultural project> SPORTS

OTBALL

tball is the most popular sport for both women and men in DPRK. We have arranged several games

ween locals and visitors including teams from Irealnd, Hong Kong, Netherlands and Singapore as

as coaching local school teams. In 2010, in conjuncon with the Brish Embassy in Pyongyang, we

ught Middlesbrough Ladies FC to play friendly matches in order to mark 10 years of diplomac rela-

s between the UK and the DPRK. The matches were aended by 6,000 spectators and broadcast

onwide.

LEYBALL

utch volleyball team in 2008 made their mark on Pyongyang by taking on some local teams (as well

ome people in the park) in a series of closely-fought contests.

MATE FRISBEE TOURNAMENT

rst ever Ulmate Frisbee Tournament in the DPRK was arranged by us in Pyong -

g in August 2011 - a sport previously unseen in the DPRK. The matches took place in

Taesongsan Park in Pyongyang and there were parcipants from various naonali-

from all over the world playing together with the Koreans and watched by local kids.

CKET008 we organized the rst ever cricket match in the DPRK. The match was held in Tae-

gsan Park and members from the Shanghai cricket club trained some local Koreans to

y and established the Pyongyang Cricket Club.

KETBALL

012 we took in a US basketball team who trained local students and put on a exhibion match.

ketball is the second most popular game in DPRK.



COMRADE KIM GOES FLYING (20

Koryo Group’s co-producon lm ab

a coalminer who wishes to y. The st

is a fairytale that pushes the boundar

of North Korean cinema. Shot

locaon in Pyongyang with No

Korean cast and cr

GAME OF THEIR LIVES

(2001)

In 1966 the North Korean

football team created the

greatest shock in World

Cup history. They arrived

as 1000-1 outsiders but

ormed miracles, knocking out pre

nament favourites Italy. Nothing had

n heard from the team since they

rned home. In 2001, aer four years

egoaons, VMS Producons and

yo Group was granted unprecedented

ial access to interview the players

ut their experiences at the 8th World

The Game of Their Lives is more than

otball lm. It is a tale of struggle and

ess, the beauty of sport crossing

ural barriers.

A STATE OF MIND (2005)

A State of Mind is an

observaonal lm follow-

ing two young gymnasts

and their families for over

eight months in the lead

up to the Mass Games –

lving a cast of thousands in a cho-

graphed, socialist realism spectacle

e biggest and most elaborate human

ormance on earth.

CROSSING THE LINE (2006)

In 1962, a U.S. soldier sent

to guard the peace in South

Korea deserted his unit,

walked across the most

heavily fored area on

earth and defected to

North Korea and disappeared from the

face of the known world. Nicholas Bonner

of Koryo Group met him in 2004 and to-

gether with VMS producons lm of the

last American defector in North Korea was

made. He became a coveted star of the

North Korean propaganda machine, and

found fame acng in lms, typecast as an

evil American and is sll living in Pyong-

yang with his family.

CENTRE FORWARD (1978)

The country’s rst football

lm originally made in

1978, now rereleased and

remastered by Koryo Tours.

This 75 minute lm is well

known in North Korea but has never

been released internaonally. Fascinang

both as an example of North Korean lm-

making and a strong story of overcoming

athlec adversity.

SELECTED TRAVEL SHOWS (TV and radio)

- Travelogue with Andy Kershaw

(UK Channel 4, 1996),

- Andy Kershaw in North Korea

(BBC Radio 3, 2003)

- The Travel Show: Nicholas Bonner in

North Korea (BBC Radio 4, 2005)

- Departures - North Korea Canadian

Travel Show (Naonal Geographic 2010)

- 3 Op Reis (Netherlands BNN 2011)



DPRK BY DESIGNNicholas Bonner has been collecng North Korean common objects since his rst visit in 1993. The idea of the book and exhibi

is to give these beaufully hand-designed graphics the status they deserve. Nowadays most North Korean graphics use compute

generated images and there is more compeon in the variety of products produced so the more simple designs are disappearin

This is a record of the simple and the striking graphic image of DPRK’s best designers.

E GAME OF THEIR LIVES (BOOK OF THE FILM)

oryo Tours and VeryMuchSo Publicaon on the making of the lm of the North Korea World Cup team of 1966 who had disap-ared from public view for 36 years. A5 size 100 pages with a great selecon fo rare images in full colour with transcripts of the

yers interviews. Posters, presentaon postcards also available. Limited edion. Signed copies by the 1966 team available as well

igned photographs

T OF THE DPRK - KOREAN FILM ARTe images contained within this book have been produced over the years as promoonal tools for adversing lms made in the

RK to a non-Korean audience, usually at lm fesvals in fellow socialist countries and other members of the non-aligned move-

nt. This privately owned collecon showcases a sample of beafully made North Korean lm posters covering a variety of lm

res from epic war lms to televised drama and much more

ELCOME TO PYONGYANGonjuncon with Brish large format photographer Charlie C rane we produced a study of Pyongyang- stunning portraits of the

des and the architecture of the city with comments from the Korean guides.

.publicaon



.other desnaon

TURKMENISTANTurkmenistan - A land with a remarkably rich history featuring guestappearances from some of history’s most colourful characters such a

Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Tamerlane, the Russian and Bri

Empires and of course the Soviet Union all the way up to the reign of

Sapamurat ‘Turkmenbashi the Great’ Niyazov; President from the

founding of the Republic unl his death in December of 2006. Relics

from all these eras survive and can be seen and visited in modern day

independent Turkmenistan.

Our tours here will expose you to all the oddies and fascinang

elements of life under the current unique post-soviet system, remnan

of Socialism remain with free services such as schooling and educao

combined with a recent massive eort to give the whole country a

make-over by cladding nearly every building in white marble! The

prisne streets of the modern capital Ashgabat give way to sand dun

as we travel into the mighty Karakum desert to the ancient and

UNESCO listed city of Merv, and the somewhat post-apocalypc

scenery around the Northern site of Konye-Urgench, with Central Asi

tallest minaret and a selecon of hardy Mausolea all that survived th

ravages of the great Tyrants of the region Genghis and Timur.

Swimming in underground sulphur-infused lakes, staying in a yurt on

farm for the famous Ahal-Tekke horses, seeing the unique aming ga

crater deep in the desert, vising the largest Bazaar in the world and

much more are also included in this trip,don’t miss it!

We really do guarantee a unique and fascinang me on this tour,while the silk road in other parts of central Asia and into China is

becoming ever more crowded with tourists Turkmenistan remains th

enigma of the bunch, a wonderful mix of ancient and modern, giants

history merging with a personality cult that outshines any in existenc

today, you cannot fail but be blown away by what Turkmenistan has t

oer.



ABANDONED RUSSIA - If this is somehow not enough for you yet we

also oering a tour that no other company has ever even considered rning – we call it ABANDONED RUSSIA. This is a trip deep into Magad

province to the abandoned city of Kadykchan. Meaning ‘death valley’

Russian this was once a fairly populous mining town, with (at the m

modern facilies and buildings, schools, apartment complexes, workp

es and so on. From the establishment of the city in the early 1970’s

unl the mid 80’s life was lived as normal in remote parts of Russia bu

the economy began the downward spiral that would end in the dissolu

of the Soviet Union and exodus of the populaon began.

In 1996 a winter even harsher than normal hit and pipes froze while re

vehicles failed to arrive and the danger of starvaon reared its head

the remaining populaon. Finally evacuated by the Russian military th

le behind one of the largest and most well preserved ghost towns in

world. Sll all standing, albeit in various states of disrepair, the city be

some similaries to Pripyat in the Ukraine (the abandoned town next

the Chernobyl reactor).

A chilling and life-changing experience for any visitor this is somewhe

exceponally dicult to reach but the rewards; in memories, and so

of the most remarkable photos you will ever take, make it uerly wor

while. For acionados of Dark Tourism there are few places like it. W

take you there via a 650km road trip from Magadan to the town of S

suman (the airport there was converted into an orthodox church so

me ago) which we will use as a base for exploring Kadykchan.

We will explore the city on foot, seeing where people lived, worked, a

played; see abandoned apartments, restaurants, and oces. See a pla

which once bustled with life but is now being reclaimed by nature. In t

city you can go inside apartment buildings, the hospitals, schools, tech

logical instutes, the city government, Olympic centre, and much mu

more. See the bust of Lenin which is now full of holes since being sho

by evacuang local residents, a truly life-changing trip; you’ve never be

anywhere like it.

.other desnaon

MAGADANGADAN - One of Russia’s remotest and most isolated regions. A

e hundreds of thousands of people were shipped to never torn during the darkest days of Stalin’s Soviet Union, but also a

e of stunning natural beauty and an interesng contemporary

tyle far removed from the European Russia we are more familiar

. Far from the ‘normal’ Russian tourist trail and so far removed

m the rest of Russia even today that the locals refer to the rest of

country as the mainland’, this province has no railway line linking

any other area and the only road that runs in from outside (the

ma highway ‘the road of bones’ from Yakutsk, over 2000 km

y) is only passable in winter and takes 4 days in good condions.

adan City is the capital of the province and contains a hardy

000 inhabitants although this number drops each year due to

aon to the mainland. Sll, the place retains its charm and has a

y social scene as well as some photogenic architecture in the city

ell as the forests and beaches nearby. Despite its isolaon and

oteness from the Russia more commonly seen there is much to

erience in Magadan. Dark tourism is but one element and on this

ial tour we will see what Magadan has to oer, becoming one of

rst tour groups ever to go there, and we hope you can make it

e with us!

l visit the regional museum, the Mask of Sorrow – an evoca-

and haunng Gulag memorial, a local beach to see how people

y themselves in the good weather, a gold and bone working fac-

to see how the region’s main product are turned into commod-orm, and more besides. We will then journey to see the remains

e horror that Magadan and the enre Kolyma region became

wn for; the ruins of some of the nearby camps that formed part

e massive connent-spanning Gulag system of the USSR in the

y – mid 20th century.

rk and saddening place which is nevertheless important to

ember and learn from. We’ll see what is le of the place to

h so many people from so many walks of life came but never

This part is not supposed to be fun but a life-long memory will

ormed. Simply put, this is one of the most tragic places on Earth,

emote that the journey is long and arduous but a place of great

orical importance nevertheless.



To help the Tofa people preserve their ancient way of life, tradional c

ture, and natural existence, Koryo Tours and its local partner, along wit

the Irkutsk Regional Associaon of Indigenous People and Siberia Land

Congress, have been working on tours and projects to establish eco-pa

within Tofalaria. The project aims to create jobs for the Tofa people bas

on their tradional way of living through the development of sustainab

tourism. Using eco- and ethno-tourism we to plan to help reestablish t

Northern reindeer populaon whilst learning about its people and cul-

ture. Due to poor management and understanding, the reindeer had a

but disappeared, causing many problems not just to the reindeer herd

but the ecology and conservaon of the local environment.

.other desnaon

TOFALARIAALARIA lies between 95°37’ and 100°05’ E and 51°53’ and

59’ N and is close to Central Asia. Encompassing an area of

ly 27,000 sq km this beauful area is mainly inhabited by the

people; one of the smallest ethnic minories on Earth.

Tofa people were tradionally peaceful in character, trying

void any violence and clashes from within their own clan and

es. This eventually caused them to move further to the depths

astern Siberia in an aempt so escape communism and fur-

contact with the outside world. Finally they seled amidst

picturesque northeast slopes of the Eastern Sayan Mountains

h isolated them from the rest of the world, contribung to the

ervaon of their ancient society. They are able to carry on theiradic existence as hunters and reindeer herders.

Tofa’s ability to live in their mountainous taiga homeland had

prepared them for survival in the modern world. Most Tofa who

e le Tofalaria, even those who received special training, recount

horror the me they spent away from the taiga and their tradi-

al way of life.

ever, in spite of the dicult situaon there sll remained some

e tough ghng spirit within the Tofa people. Some claim it is

to the blood of their ancient chieains coursing through their

s and it may also in part be due to the support of the public

m outside Tofalaria. People have tried to revive the Tofa ancestral

eriences and bring back a sense of naonal pride. Help has also

red down from the Soyot.



A B O U T

Koryo Studio (formerly known as Pyongyang Art Studio) is the rst Western art gallery to commission and sell work by arsts

the Democrac People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), or North Korea. Founded in 1993 to display a collecon of DPRK lm post

we opened our rst gallery nine years later at the Red House in Beijing, China. Our goal has always been to commission, prod

and sell high-quality works while facilitang cross-cultural openness and exchange. We have shown our collecons with inter

onal public and private organisaons and have published books on photography (Welcome to Pyongyang, 2002) and art (Art

the DPRK, 2008)

www.koryostudio.com



KORYO TOURS OFFICE

Tel: +86 (10) 6416 7544

Fax: +86 (10) 6415 2653

Skype: koryo.toursEmail Inquiries: [email protected]

Website: www.koryotours.com

Oce Address: No 27 Bei San Li Tun Nan (East Courtyard), Chaoyang District, 100027, Beijing, China

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Koryo Tours Brochure 2014