whatdo

Things To Do
in Chŏngju

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Chŏngju is a city located in North Korea, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. It is home to important sites such as the Chŏngju Ch'ŏngsin Buddhist Temple and the Chŏngju Revolutionary Site. The city features a mix of modern developments alongside traditional Korean architecture.

Chŏngju also hosts various festivals and events that showcase the local traditions and customs.

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Private Dandong City Day Tour:Hushan Great Wall,Yalu River Broken Bridge,Border

  • "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $20

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Chngju History
morning
:

Visit the Chŏngju National Museum to delve into the rich history of the region. Enjoy a guided tour to understand the artifacts and their significance.

afternoon
:

Head to the ancient site of the Cheongnyangsa Temple, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Take time to meditate and appreciate the natural surroundings.

evening
:

Stroll through the local markets to experience Chŏngju's vibrant culture. Treat yourself to traditional Korean street food for dinner.

day 2
Nature Day in Chngju
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at the beautiful Mt. Guryong. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the picturesque Dongguksa Temple and enjoy a peaceful break among the ancient trees. Participate in a tea ceremony offered by local monks.

evening
:

Relax at a local café with a view of the sunset over the hills. Sample some local desserts to finish off the day.

Chŏngju Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Historical significance with ancient sites and cultural heritage.
  • Rich natural beauty with surrounding mountains and rivers.
  • Less commercialized, offering an authentic experience of North Korean culture.
  • Opportunities for unique experiences and interactions with local people.
  • Limited access and restrictions for tourists.
  • Potential language barrier as few locals speak English.
  • Basic infrastructure and facilities for travelers may be lacking.
  • Political instability can pose risks for visitors.

Best Activities in Chŏngju

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Mount Songnisan Hiking

Explore the beautiful hiking trails and scenic landscapes of Mount Songnisan.

Daecheongho Lake Water Sports

Enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports at Daecheongho Lake.

Suanbo Hot Springs

Relax and rejuvenate at the natural hot springs in Suanbo, known for their therapeutic properties.

Places to Visit in Chŏngju

Visit one of these nice places.

Songam Space Observatory

Offers panoramic views of Chŏngju and a great spot for photos of the city and surrounding area.

Soyosan Mountain

Provides breathtaking views of the landscape and is especially picturesque during the autumn season.

Food in Chŏngju

Chŏngju, located in Korea, North, is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. From spicy traditional Korean dishes to vibrant street food markets, there's something to tantalize every palate.

Chŏngju Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Naengmyeon

A cold noodle dish typically topped with pickled radish, sliced cucumbers, and a hard-boiled egg. Best enjoyed at Pyeongyang Naengmyeon, a revered local spot.

Must-Try!

Kimchi

A staple of Korean cuisine, this fermented vegetable dish is a must-try. Head to Tongil Market for an authentic taste.

Pibimbap

A delightful mix of rice, vegetables, and often meat, topped with a fried egg and served with chili pepper paste. Visit Jeil Sikdang for a superb rendition.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tongil Market

An iconic market where you can indulge in a variety of street food delights like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Chŏngju Intangible Goods Market

A hub for traditional Korean street food including bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls).

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a humid continental climate, marked by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common. Summers tend to be hot and humid, with temperatures frequently rising above 30°C (86°F) during the peak months. Spring and autumn are usually mild and pleasant, providing a transitional period with moderate temperatures and varying precipitation. Rainfall is more frequent in the summer months, particularly during the monsoon season, which can lead to heavy downpours. The changing seasons contribute to a vibrant natural landscape, with blooming flora in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Overall, the climate supports a range of agricultural activities, including rice cultivation, which is common in the area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Observe personal space and bowing

In Chŏngju, it is important to maintain personal space and bow as a form of greeting, especially when meeting someone for the first time.

Respect for elders

In Korean culture, respecting elders is highly important. Use polite language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.

Removing shoes indoors

Before entering someone's home or certain traditional spaces, it is customary to remove shoes as a sign of respect and cleanliness.

Safety

Safety in this city can be influenced by several factors, including the broader political climate of North Korea. Generally, crime rates are low due to strict government control and surveillance, which can discourage criminal activity. However, restrictions on personal freedoms and dissent are prevalent, and citizens live under a regime that monitors behavior closely. Travelers should be aware that while violent crime is rare, other risks involve strict laws against photography, interactions with foreigners, and public expressions of dissent. It's crucial to understand and respect local laws and customs, as violations can lead to serious consequences. Emergency services and healthcare facilities may not be up to the standards some visitors might expect, which is another aspect to consider regarding safety. Overall, while the environment can be secure in terms of violent crime, the overarching political situation presents unique safety concerns that are different from those in many other parts of the world.

Tipping in Chŏngju

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Chŏngju, Korea, North. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for other services.

Payment

In Chŏngju, Korea, North, cash is widely used for transactions, and credit card acceptance may vary depending on the establishment. It is best to carry cash for most purchases, especially in smaller businesses or local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Chŏngju, Korea, North. Expect cherry blossoms and mild weather.

Summer

Warm and humid season, great for outdoor activities and festivals.

Autumn

Beautiful foliage, cool weather, and ideal for hiking.

Winter

Cold with occasional snowfall. Perfect for winter sports and enjoying hot springs.

Chŏngju at Night

North Korea is known for its strict regulations and limited personal freedoms, and this extends to aspects of daily life, including nightlife. As a result, nightlife in smaller cities like Chŏngju tends to be very subdued compared to what might be expected in more liberal countries. For most North Koreans, evenings are typically spent at home with family, given the absence of a commercial nightlife scene. Socializing often occurs within the framework of community events or gatherings that are organized by local authorities. In Chŏngju, public entertainment options would be limited mostly to state-sanctioned events or places such as cultural centers, community halls, and possibly a few restaurants that are permitted by the government. There may also be occasional performances or film screenings at these community hubs, but these events are heavily monitored and curated by the state to ensure that they align with official propaganda and cultural guidelines. For any international visitors or expatriates, their movements would be highly restricted, and their options would be similarly limited to what is made available by the state, typically in the form of guided tours or specific approved venues. In summary, while Chŏngju and similar cities in North Korea may offer some forms of evening activities, these are generally controlled, limited in scope, and designed to align with the state's ideals and policies.

Hiking in Chŏngju

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Seongyojang

A scenic hiking spot with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, known for its tranquility and natural beauty.

Osaek Jujeonggol Valley

Famous for its stunning valley views and pristine nature. Popular among hikers and nature lovers.

Jikji Mountain

Offers a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, with great opportunities for seeing wildlife.

Baegunsan Mountain

Features lush forests, diverse wildlife, and panoramic views from the summit.

Geumsusan Mountain

A picturesque mountain known for its vibrant flora and well-marked trails, suitable for all skill levels.

Aiports

How to reach Chŏngju by plane.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

The largest airport in South Korea, located near Seoul, approximately 300 kilometers from Chŏngju.

Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

Located in Seoul, approximately 290 kilometers from Chŏngju. It serves as a secondary airport to Incheon with both domestic and international flights.

Busan Gimhae International Airport (PUS)

Located in Busan, about 250 kilometers from Chŏngju. It is the main airport serving the southeastern region of South Korea.

Cheongju International Airport (CJJ)

Located in Cheongju, approximately 140 kilometers from Chŏngju. It serves regional and limited international flights.

Daegu International Airport (TAE)

Located in Daegu, about 160 kilometers from Chŏngju, providing both domestic and international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in this North Korean city is characterized by a mixed urban environment that offers a range of amenities within walking distance for residents. Streets are generally designed to prioritize pedestrians over vehicles, with wide sidewalks and pedestrian pathways. The layout includes parks and green spaces that encourage outdoor activities and leisure walking. Public transportation is limited compared to some urban areas in other countries, which promotes walking as a primary mode of transport for short distances. The presence of key facilities such as markets, schools, and public buildings within neighborhoods makes it convenient for residents to traverse the city on foot. While the overall infrastructure supports a pedestrian-friendly environment, factors such as limited urban planning resources and occasional economic constraints can affect maintenance and safety. Nonetheless, the city's design reflects a community-oriented approach, fostering a sense of accessibility and connectivity among its inhabitants.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean

The majority ethnic group of people living in Chŏngju, representing a significant percentage of the population.

Chinese

A smaller demographic group, consisting mainly of Chinese nationals and ethnic Chinese living and working in the area.

Non-Korean nationals

Includes individuals from various countries who reside temporarily or permanently in Chŏngju.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A widely popular team sport played throughout North Korea, including Chŏngju, known for its passionate local support.

Basketball

Another favorite sport in North Korea, basketball is played in schools and local communities, with vibrant local leagues.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is popular in various regions of North Korea, including Chŏngju, often promoted at the grassroots level.

Volleyball

Volleyball is accessible and commonly played at schools and community centers in Chŏngju.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is significant in North Korean culture, with competitions and training commonplace in Chŏngju.

Traffic

Traffic in this North Korean city is influenced by several factors, including the overall infrastructure, economic conditions, and government policies. The road network is generally less developed compared to South Korea, resulting in fewer vehicles on the roads. Most transportation within the city is done using bicycles, buses, and government-operated vehicles. Public transportation mainly consists of a bus system that connects various parts of the city, but the frequency and reliability can vary. Bicycles are a common mode of transport for residents, as they provide a practical and economical means to navigate the city. Automobiles are much less common, and those that are present are usually government-owned or belong to higher-ranking officials. The overall traffic situation is relatively quieter than in major cities of the South, with fewer instances of congestion, but it remains affected by road conditions and infrastructure limitations. Walking is also a common way to get around, particularly in the central areas where many amenities are located.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chŏngju.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

While options may be limited, some restaurants like Jeonju Bibimbap offer vegetarian bibimbap, and Buddhist temples in the area serve flavorful vegan temple cuisine.

Gluten-Free

It can be challenging to find gluten-free dishes due to the prevalent use of soy sauce, but traditional Korean barbecue without the sauce or rice-based dishes can be suitable.

Healthcare

In this city, healthcare is primarily managed by the government, following the centralized and state-controlled model typical in North Korea. The healthcare system focuses on providing basic medical services to the population, with an emphasis on preventive care. Hospitals and clinics are generally state-owned, and medical professionals are trained through state-funded institutions. Basic health services are supposed to be free, but the quality and availability can vary significantly. Urban areas might have better facilities and access to medications and resources than rural locations. While the government promotes health campaigns and initiatives, there can be significant shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and modern technology due to economic constraints and international sanctions. Preventive measures, such as vaccinations and health screenings, are prioritized, and the government often organizes public health events to combat common diseases. Despite the emphasis on public health, many people may seek traditional remedies or informal medical services due to deficiencies in the public healthcare system. Overall, healthcare in this region reflects the broader challenges faced by the North Korean healthcare system, including limited resources, a focus on basic care, and significant disparities in access and quality of medical services.

Discover Korea, North

Read more in our Korea, North 2024 Travel Guide.

Korea, North Travel Guide