Samjiyon - Discovering North Korea

Travelling to Samjiyon

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Samjiyon, a pretty good destination in North Korea (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Samjiyon and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Samjiyon, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through North Korea, here's everything to know about Samjiyon for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Samjiyon

Samjiyon is a town located in the Ryanggang Province of North Korea. It is situated in the northern part of the country, near the border with China. The town has a population of around 18,000 people and is known for its scenic beauty, with mountains, forests, and lakes surrounding the area. Samjiyon is also known for its historical significance, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Kim Jong Il, the late leader of North Korea. In recent years, the North Korean government has invested heavily in the town's infrastructure, with the goal of turning it into a major tourism destination.

What to visit in Samjiyon

Here are some of the main tourist attractions of Samjiyon in North Korea: 1. Mount Paektu: This is the highest mountain in North Korea, and is considered a sacred site by the North Korean people. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers.
2. Samjiyon Grand Monument: This monument is located in the center of Samjiyon and is dedicated to the North Korean revolutionary fighters who fought against Japanese imperialism.
3. Samjiyon Revolutionary Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the North Korean people, with a focus on the revolutionary struggle against imperialism.
4. Rimyongsu Falls: This scenic waterfall is located near Samjiyon, and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
5. Chongbong Secret Camp: This underground complex was used by North Korean guerrilla fighters during the Korean War, and is now a museum showcasing their struggle against the South Korean and American forces.
6. Snowboarding and skiing: Samjiyon is home to several ski resorts, including the Masikryong Ski Resort, which is one of the largest in North Korea.
It's important to note that travel to North Korea is heavily restricted and controlled by the government. Visitors must be accompanied by a government-approved tour guide at all times, and may only visit approved tourist sites.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in North Korea, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Samjiyon.

When to go on holiday to Samjiyon

The best time to visit Samjiyon in North Korea is during the months of April to October, as the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing or outdoor activities. The temperatures are generally mild during these months, and there is less chance of rainfall or adverse weather conditions. Keep in mind that travel to North Korea is subject to strict government restrictions and it is important to get all necessary permits and documentation before making any travel arrangements.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Samjiyon

Samjiyon is a remote city located in the northern part of North Korea near the Chinese border. It's not easy to reach the city as it’s only accessible by a single road, but there are some ways to get there: 1. By Air: You can take a domestic flight from Pyongyang Airport to Samjiyon Airport. However, flights to Samjiyon are not frequent and are subject to change or cancellation.
2. By Bus: Buses are available from Pyongyang to Samjiyon but they can take up to two days to reach there. The journey can be tiring and challenging as the roads are not very well maintained.
3. By Car: Private cars can also drive to Samjiyon from Pyongyang but it is a long and challenging ride. Only experienced drivers should attempt this as the roads can be rough and challenging to navigate through.
It's important to note that travel to North Korea is heavily regulated, and all visitors must travel as part of an organized tour group. You will need to obtain a visa and a special permit to enter the country. It's always best to seek assistance from a trusted travel agency that specializes in North Korea tours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Samjiyon, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Samjiyon

Samjiyon is a remote city in North Korea, located in the Ryanggang Province. The cuisine in this region is influenced by the harsh winters, lack of access to fresh produce, and the preservation techniques used to make the most out of the available ingredients. Here are some typical foods of Samjiyon: 1. Pheasant Soup (Maesil-tang): A hearty soup made with pheasant meat, mushrooms, and rice, seasoned with garlic and soy sauce. This soup is perfect for cold weather and is believed to have medicinal properties.
2. Dried Fish (Jangeo): Fish is often caught in the nearby rivers and lakes during the summer and then dried to preserve it for the winter months. The dried fish is usually eaten as a snack or added to soups and stews.
3. Buckwheat Noodles (Memil-guksu): Buckwheat is a common crop in Samjiyon due to its tolerance to cold weather. The buckwheat noodles are served with a clear broth, sliced meat, and vegetables.
4. Acorn Jelly (Dotorimuk): Acorns are collected in the fall and processed into a jelly-like substance that can be served plain or with other flavors like soy sauce, vinegar, or mustard.
5. Potato Dumplings (Gamja-songpyeon): A dessert made with mashed potatoes, rice flour, and filled with sweet beans, pumpkin or chestnuts. These dumplings are steamed and then coated with sesame seeds.
6. Pine Nut Porridge (Jat-juk): Pine nuts are a local delicacy in Samjiyon and are used to make a traditional porridge. The porridge is made with pine nuts, rice flour, sugar, and water, and is a popular breakfast option.
You can find general info about typical foods in North Korea here.

Is Samjiyon an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Samjiyon in North Korea can be an expensive destination for tourists. While exact prices are not available due to limited access to the country, North Korea as a whole is known to be relatively expensive for tourists. This is partly due to the fact that there are limited tourism options, and most tours are strictly controlled by the government. Additionally, visitors are required to use government-approved tour operators and pay for all expenses directly through them. Furthermore, possible restrictions and additional fees might be placed on foreigners visiting Samjiyon due to its location near the North Korean-Chinese border.

Where to find accomodation in Samjiyon

As a travel website, I must remind you that tourism in North Korea is currently limited and subject to strict controls by the government. However, for informative purposes, if you were able to visit Samjiyon, the best areas to find accommodation would likely be in the city center or near popular tourist sites, such as the Paektu Mountain or the Samjiyon Grand Monument. There are a few hotels in the area, such as the Samjiyon Guest House or the Paektu Hotel, that cater to tourists. However, it is important to note that access to certain parts of the city may be restricted for foreigners, and travelers are advised to follow all regulations and guidelines set forth by the North Korean government.
You can check hotel prices at Samjiyon here:
Booking.com

Is Samjiyon a safe destination for tourists?

While North Korea is considered to be a safe country for tourists, it is important to note that Samjiyon is located close to the North Korean border with China and may be subject to restrictions or heightened security measures. Additionally, access to certain areas may be restricted and travelers are highly monitored by the government. It is important to follow the guidelines of the tour group and local authorities while visiting Samjiyon.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in North Korea here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Samjiyon.

What type of travelers will enjoy Samjiyon the most?

Samjiyon in North Korea is primarily a destination for group tours, which means that people travel in groups and not alone. Therefore, families, groups of friends, and even solo travelers can enjoy a trip to Samjiyon. It is not known for its nightlife or entertainment, so it may not be the best fit for young people looking for fun. However, for nature lovers and those interested in history and politics, Samjiyon can offer a unique and educational travel experience. The town is located in a beautiful mountainous area and has several historic sites related to the Kim family, including the birthplace of Kim Jong Il. Overall, Samjiyon is best suited for cultural and educational trips rather than romantic couple getaways or party destinations.

How to get around Samjiyon

There are several transportation options available to move around Samjiyon in North Korea. The most common mode of transportation is by bus or taxi, which can be easily arranged through local tour operators. It is also possible to hire a private car or motorcycle, although these may be subject to restrictions depending on your nationality and the local regulations. Walking or cycling can also be a great way to explore the surrounding areas, especially in the mountainous regions, but it is important to be prepared for variable weather conditions and rugged terrain. Additionally, some areas may be restricted due to military or political concerns.

What to see around Samjiyon

Samjiyon is located in a remote area of North Korea, but there are some beautiful destinations you can visit for a day trip. Here are some options: 1. Lake Chon in Mount Paektu National Park - Located just 30km away from Samjiyon, Lake Chon is considered sacred and beautiful by the Koreans. It is the highest crater lake in the world, and you can take boat rides to explore the surrounding areas.
2. Rimyongsu Falls - Rimyongsu Falls is a popular destination for tourists visiting the region. It is only 12km away from Samjiyon and is a picturesque spot for a picnic, where you can enjoy the cascading waterfalls and the beautiful surroundings.
3. Samjiyon Grand Monument - A popular landmark located in Samjiyon itself is the Samjiyon Grand Monument. This monument celebrates the revolutionary spirit of the Korean people and symbolizes the unity and leadership of the country.
4. Kumsusan Palace of the Sun - Kumsusan Palace of the Sun is a mausoleum of the North Korean leaders and is located in Pyongyang, 300km away from Samjiyon. If you're interested in the history and culture of North Korea, you can take a day tour of the palace to learn more about the country's political legacy.
5. International Friendship Exhibition - The International Friendship Exhibition is located in Myohyangsan Mountain, around 250km away from Samjiyon. Here you can see gifts given to the leaders of North Korea by dignitaries from around the world over the years.
Note that some of these destinations may require special permits, and it is important to research local customs, laws, and regulations before planning your trip.
For every travel information about North Korea you can click here.

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