Things To Do
in Hyesan
Hyesan is a city located in the northern part of North Korea, near the border with China. It is known for its mountainous landscape and scenic views along the Yalu River. The city is an important trading hub due to its proximity to the Chinese border, with goods passing through the border crossing at Changbai.
Hyesan has a colder climate compared to other parts of North Korea due to its higher elevation, with snowfall in the winter months.
- "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): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $20
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the stunning Mt. Kwanaksan. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Hyesan Grand Theatre to experience local performances. Explore nearby shops to find unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
Relax at a local café and sample traditional Korean tea. Take a leisurely walk along the Yalu River to appreciate the sunset.
Visit the Revolutionary Museum to learn about North Korean history and culture. Observe historical artifacts and exhibitions.
Head to the local market to experience daily life and shop for fresh produce. Engage with friendly locals and sample traditional street food.
End your day with a tranquil stroll through the city streets. Admire the landscape lit up by the night sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location near the border with China, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.
- Rich in natural resources and picturesque landscapes, including mountains and rivers.
- Historical significance and cultural heritage, offering unique experiences.
- Limited access to information and restricted internet connectivity due to strict government control.
- Economic challenges and poverty levels impacting the quality of life.
- Political instability and potential risk due to North Korea's geopolitical situation.
Best Activities in Hyesan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking in the scenic Mount Hyesan Range and take in picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and serene natural beauty.
Visit Gangnam Square for outdoor recreational activities such as picnicking, leisure walks, and sports activities in a pleasant setting.
Experience the beauty of the Yalu River by taking a boat trip, enjoying the natural surroundings and tranquil waters.
Places to Visit in Hyesan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Yalu River and the Sino-Korean Friendship Bridge.
Provides panoramic views of Hyesan city and the surrounding area.
Boasts a rooftop observation deck with picturesque views of the city and nearby mountains.
Food in Hyesan
Hyesan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try cold noodle dish, typically served in a chilled broth with various toppings such as pickled radish, cucumber, and sliced beef. You can savor authentic Pyeongyang naengmyeon at local eateries like Myeonghwa-dong Cold Noodles.
Must-Try!
A variation of naengmyeon with a spicy kick, often topped with sliced raw skate. For a genuine taste of Hamheung naengmyeon, head to restaurants like Rason Naengmyeon House.
These savory pancakes made from buckwheat flour are a popular snack in Hyesan, especially when paired with makgeolli (rice wine). Look for them at local food stalls or traditional Korean pubs (jeonjib).
A beloved regional specialty, hwangtae gui is dried pollack that's grilled to perfection. You can relish this dish at traditional restaurants like Hyesan Jogaegui.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for street food lovers, offering a wide array of local delicacies such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and sundae (Korean blood sausage).
A vibrant street food hub where you can indulge in regional favorites like steamed buns (jjinppang), savory pancakes (jeon), and grilled skewers of meat and vegetables.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hyesan, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal language and gestures.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home in Hyesan as a sign of respect.
Personal space is valued in Hyesan, and it's important to be mindful of respecting others' personal space in interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Hyesan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Hyesan, North Korea. It is generally not expected or customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for services.
In Hyesan, Korea, North, cash is the predominant form of payment. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, so it's important to carry enough cash for daily expenses. Foreign currency exchange can be done at authorized banks and exchange offices.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Hyesan is in Spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Expect beautiful scenery and comfortable temperatures.
Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid in Hyesan. However, it is a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the lush green landscapes.
Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit Hyesan when the fall foliage is at its peak. The weather is cool and comfortable, making it perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
Winter (December to February) in Hyesan is cold and snowy, but it offers unique experiences such as winter sports and beautiful snowy landscapes. It's also a great time to experience traditional winter festivals.
Hyesan at Night
Hiking in Hyesan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning mountain range offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and rugged peaks, this area features numerous trails suitable for hiking and exploration.
A serene hiking area around a picturesque lake, perfect for nature walks and bird watching.
The highest mountain on the Korean Peninsula, offering challenging hikes and spectacular views from the summit.
An idyllic hiking destination featuring peaceful river views and lush greenery, ideal for a relaxing day outdoors.
Aiports
How to reach Hyesan by plane.
Located in Yangang, this airport serves as a gateway for international flights in the region.
The main international airport serving Pyongyang, it offers limited international flights and is the closest major airport.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located in Beijing, China, it serves as a major hub for international travel near North Korea.
Located in Shenyang, China, this airport connects several international flights and is relatively close to North Korea.
Serving Changchun, China, this airport offers international flights and is one of the closest major airports to Hyesan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group comprising the vast majority of Hyesan's population, primarily consisting of ethnic Koreans.
A smaller demographic group in Hyesan, often involved in trade and business, primarily consisting of ethnic Chinese.
Individuals who have defected from North Korea or migrated from other regions, representing a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences.
A limited number of foreign nationals, including diplomats and foreign workers, often involved in specific projects or governmental work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Hyesan, played both casually and competitively among local teams.
Basketball has gained popularity in urban areas, with many local courts and community teams participating in friendly matches.
Table tennis is widely played in schools and recreational centers, known for its accessibility and competitive tournaments.
Volleyball is popular among youth and is often played in schools and community events, promoting teamwork and fitness.
Ssireum is a traditional sport that showcases strength and technique, often featured in local festivals and events.
Running events are organized in Hyesan, promoting fitness and community engagement, particularly among the youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hyesan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Korean cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, some restaurants in Hyesan offer vegetable-based dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and various tofu-based stews. Vegetarian and vegan visitors can also explore Buddhist temple cuisine in the local area.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes such as bibimbap, grilled meats, and seafood. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly when dining out to ensure a pleasant and safe dining experience.