Wonsan - Discovering North Korea

Travelling to Wonsan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Wonsan, 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 Wonsan 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 Wonsan, 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 Wonsan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Wonsan

Wonsan is a port city located on the east coast of North Korea, between Hamhung and Kumgangsan. It is the capital of Kangwon Province and has a population of around 330,000 people. It is known for its beautiful beaches and natural scenery, as well as its historical and cultural attractions, such as the Wonsan Revolutionary Site and the Songdowon International Children's Camp. Wonsan is also home to several universities and research institutions, as well as a major industrial center for the country. However, due to political tensions and restrictions on tourism, visiting Wonsan as a foreigner can be challenging.

What to visit in Wonsan

Wonsan is a port city in North Korea that attracts many tourists with its historical and cultural landmarks, beautiful beaches, and natural attractions. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Wonsan: 1. Wonsan Beach: Located in the heart of the city, Wonsan Beach is a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and recreation. The beach is known for its clear blue waters, soft sand, and picturesque views.
2. Kalma Airport: Kalma International Airport is one of the most modern airports in North Korea and is strategically located in Wonsan. It has a vast network of air charter services to different parts of North Korea.
3. Kŭmgang-san Mountains: Kŭmgang-san is a beautiful mountain range located east of Wonsan that is known for its stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, and scenic views. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers who want to explore the region's biodiversity.
4. Songdowon International Children's Union Camp: This camp offers several educational programs for children and young adults. It was established in 1960 by the government of North Korea and provides an opportunity for young people to interact with other children from various countries.
5. Wonsan Revolutionary Museum: A visit to the Wonsan Revolutionary Museum will give you an insight into North Korea's history and culture. The museum has a vast collection of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the city's cultural and political history.
6. Wonsan Port: Wonsan is a busy commercial port that serves as a gateway for international trade between North Korea and other countries. It's a great place to watch the ships arrive and depart, and also take a stroll along the boardwalk.
7. Masikryong Ski Resort: Located just outside the city, Masikryong Ski Resort offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. It is a popular tourist destination during the winter season.
These tourist attractions have something for everyone to enjoy, whether it's learning about North Korea's history and culture or relaxing on the beach or skiing in the mountains.
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 Wonsan.

When to go on holiday to Wonsan

Wonsan's climate is classified as warm and temperate, with significant rainfall throughout the year, meaning that any time of year could be appropriate for a visit, depending on your preferences. However, the best time to visit Wonsan would be between the months of May and October, as these months tend to have the most pleasant weather conditions, with comfortable temperatures and lower chances of rainfall. Additionally, during this time of year, there are many interesting and exciting cultural events and festivals held in Wonsan that you can participate in, adding to the enjoyment of your trip.

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

How to get to Wonsan

To get to Wonsan (North Korea), the easiest way is to fly into Pyongyang International Airport and then take either a train or a bus to Wonsan, which is located about 200 kilometers east of the capital. There are several airlines that fly to Pyongyang from various cities around the world, including Air China, Air Koryo, and China Eastern Airlines. However, it's important to note that obtaining a visa to enter North Korea can be difficult and requires approval from the North Korean government. Once you arrive in Pyongyang, you can take a train or a bus to Wonsan. The train journey takes about 4-5 hours, and the buses take about 3-4 hours. It's always recommended to book your transportation in advance through a trusted travel agency, as it can be challenging to navigate transportation on your own in North Korea.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Wonsan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Wonsan

Wonsan is a coastal city in North Korea that offers a unique and vibrant culinary scene. Here are some typical foods of Wonsan with a short description: 1. Mulhoe (물회) - This is a spicy sashimi soup made with fresh seafood like squid, octopus, and fish, and served in a cold broth with vegetables.
2. Hwae (회) - Raw fish thinly sliced and served with various sides like rice, vegetables, and soy sauce. 3. Kalguksu (칼국수) - A clear broth made with hand-cut wheat noodles, potatoes, bean sprouts, and green onions.
4. Pyeonyuk (편육) - This dish is made of meat which is boiled and dried repeatedly, covered in hot and spicy sauce and served with vegetables.
5. Naengmyeon (냉면) - A cold noodle soup typically made with buckwheat noodles, sliced beef and pickled radishes or cucumbers, and served in a cold broth.
6. Patbingsu (팥빙수) - A dessert made with shaved ice, sweet red beans, and condensed milk, often topped with fruit, syrup, or nuts.
7. Songi-guksu (송이국수) - A soup dish made with wheat noodles and mushrooms that are cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and sometimes meat.
These are just a few examples of the delicious foods you can find in Wonsan. Bon appétit!
You can find general info about typical foods in North Korea here.

Is Wonsan an expensive destination for tourists?

Wonsan, like many other destinations in North Korea, has restrictions on tourism and only allows access through organized tours. These tours can be relatively expensive compared to other destinations. The cost of tours to Wonsan can vary depending on several factors such as the duration, itinerary, and accommodations. Generally, visitors can expect to pay a higher fee to visit Wonsan compared to other North Korean cities. It is important to remember that due to the government's control of the tourism industry, prices can fluctuate, and it is best to research tour options and prices before booking a trip to Wonsan.

Where to find accomodation in Wonsan

In Wonsan, it is best to find accommodation in the city center or near the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area. The city center is convenient as it offers easy access to local markets, restaurants, and tourist attractions such as the Wonsan Revolutionary Museum and Songdowon International Children's Union Camp. The Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Area is located on the outskirts of the city and offers beautiful beaches and stunning views of the sea. There are several hotels and resorts located in this area that offer comfortable accommodation with exceptional facilities.
You can check hotel prices at Wonsan here:
Booking.com

Is Wonsan a safe destination for tourists?

Wonsan is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is important to note that all visitors to North Korea, including Wonsan, must be accompanied by a government-authorized tour operator at all times, and certain areas may be off-limits to tourists. Additionally, visitors are required to follow strict guidelines and regulations, and any violations can result in serious consequences. It is recommended that travelers carefully research and consider the risks before planning a trip to North Korea.
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 Wonsan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Wonsan the most?

Wonsan, North Korea is primarily a beach destination, with several beautiful beaches, along with beautiful mountains and hot springs to explore. This destination is ideal for couples or families looking for a relaxing vacation surrounded by natural beauty. It may not be the best place for young people looking for fun as the local culture and regulations are not very open for partying or nightlife. Overall, Wonsan focus on natural beauty and cultural exploration, so it is perfect for travelers interested in exploring North Korean culture and scenic landscapes.

How to get around Wonsan

In Wonsan, you can move around by taxi, bus or train. Taxis are the most convenient way to travel within the city, but they can be a bit pricey. Buses are a cheaper option and the most common way to get around, although they can be crowded at times. Trains are also available, but they are more suited for longer journeys outside the city. It is worth noting that the use of public transportation in North Korea may be restricted for foreigners and guided tours are often mandatory.

What to see around Wonsan

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Wonsan in North Korea: 1. Masikryong Ski Resort: This is a great place to visit for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. The resort offers facilities for beginners as well as seasoned skiers.
2. Ullim Waterfall: Located in the nearby Mt. Kumgang, this waterfall offers a beautiful view and a chance to see the natural beauty of North Korea.
3. Tonghung Hill: This hill has a famous historical site, the Tonghung Revolutionary Site, which is a great place to learn about North Korean history and culture.
4. Songdowon International Children's Camp: This camp is a great place to visit for families traveling to North Korea with their children.
5. Wonsan Revolutionary Museum: This museum showcases the revolutionary history of Wonsan.
6. Chongsokjong: This is a famous Buddhist temple in the area, which is a great place to visit for Buddhist travelers or anyone interested in the history of religion in North Korea.
7. The East Sea: The East Sea offers a beautiful view and a chance to relax on the beach or go for a swim during the summer months.
Please keep in mind that North Korea has strict rules and regulations for tourists and some of the above-mentioned places may not be accessible to foreigners. It is always best to check with your tour operator before planning a trip.
For every travel information about North Korea you can click here.

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