North Korea Travel Information

Climate

North Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.

• Spring (April to June) is mild and rainy, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm.
• Summer (July to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching as high as 35°C (95°F) and more than 12 hours of daylight.
• Autumn (September to November) is cool and dry, with colorful foliage.
• Winter (December to March) is cold and dry, with temperatures dropping as low as -20°C (-4°F) and heavy snowfall. ### Best Time to Visit The best time to visit North Korea depends on what kind of weather and activities you prefer.
• Spring is a good time to visit for comfortable temperatures and flowers blooming.
• Summer can be hot and humid, but it's the best time to experience the country's festivals and outdoor activities.
• Autumn offers the best weather, with cooler temperatures and clear skies.
• Winter is the coldest time to visit, but it's also the best time to see snow-covered landscapes and experience winter sports.

State-Owned Hotels

The majority of accommodations in North Korea are state-owned hotels. These hotels are generally of decent quality and offer basic amenities such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, and heating. Some of the more well-known state-owned hotels include the Koryo Hotel in Pyongyang, the Yanggakdo Hotel in Pyongyang, and the Sosan Hotel in Pyongyang.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are also an option for accommodation in North Korea. These are typically smaller and more basic than state-owned hotels, and are usually reserved for lower-budget travelers. Guesthouses may not have amenities such as private bathrooms or air conditioning, but they are an authentic way to experience local life in North Korea.

Private Accommodations

Staying in private accommodations such as homes or apartments is not typically allowed for tourists in North Korea. However, in recent years, there have been reports of some tourists being able to stay in private homes in rural areas, but this is not something that is commonly offered or advertised.

It's worth noting that North Korea is a closed society and a unique destination, the accommodation options might be limited and have some restrictions. Tourists have to follow strict rules and regulations and have little freedom to move around.

Air Travel

Air travel is the most common way for tourists to enter North Korea. The main airport in North Korea is Pyongyang Sunan International Airport, which is located just outside of the capital city of Pyongyang. There are flights from Beijing, Shenyang, Vladivostok, and other cities in Asia. The state-owned airline Air Koryo operates flights to and from several destinations in Asia, including Beijing, Shenyang, Vladivostok, and Dandong.

Train Travel

Taking a train is another option for getting to North Korea. The main train station in North Korea is Pyongyang Station, which is located in the capital city of Pyongyang. There are train connections to Beijing and Moscow, as well as other destinations in Asia.

Bus Travel

Buses are also a common mode of transportation in North Korea. There are bus connections between major cities such as Pyongyang and Kaesong, as well as between cities and towns in the countryside.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in North Korea, but tourists are usually not allowed to use them without a guide. Taxis are usually only used by tourists as part of a pre-arranged tour package.

It's worth noting that North Korea is a closed society and a unique destination, the transportation options might be limited and have some restrictions. Tourists have to follow strict rules and regulations and have little freedom to move around.

Currency

• The currency of North Korea is the North Korean won (KPW).

Cash And Cards

• Cash is the primary form of payment in North Korea.
• Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is recommended to carry enough cash for your expenses.

ATMs

• ATMs are not widely available in North Korea.
• It is recommended to exchange currency beforehand or carry enough cash.

Tipping

• Tipping is not a common practice in North Korea.

Cost Of Living

• The cost of living in North Korea is relatively low compared to other countries.

Scams

• Be cautious of exchanging money on the black market, as it is illegal and may lead to scams.
• It is recommended to use official exchange offices or banks for currency exchange.