Things To Do
in Manpo

Manpo is a county in Chagang Province in North Korea. It is located along the border with China, making it an important transportation hub for trade between the two countries. The region is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and forests.

Manpo has a relatively small population but plays a significant role in the economic and cultural exchanges between North Korea and China.

  • "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 - $25
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Manpo's Landmarks
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the famed Manpo Bridge, taking in the beautiful views of the river. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverside park to soak in the morning atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market for lunch where you can taste traditional North Korean dishes. Afterward, explore the Manpo Revolutionary Museum to learn about the region's history.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening at a nearby park, ideal for reflection and relaxation. Consider grabbing dinner at a local eatery to experience authentic North Korean cuisine.

day 2
Nature Walks in Manpo
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby scenic mountains, such as Mount Kumgang. The fresh air and beautiful surroundings will rejuvenate you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch among nature at one of the mountain viewpoints. Afterward, continue your hike or visit the nearby waterfalls for stunning photo opportunities.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to the city and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Relax and reflect on the day while enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with traditional Korean architecture and practices.
  • Proximity to natural landscapes, including mountains and rivers, offering outdoor activities.
  • Community-oriented lifestyle with strong ties among residents.
  • Limited access to information and media due to government restrictions.
  • Economic challenges and lack of resources in comparison to South Korea.
  • Restricted personal freedoms and lack of political expression.

Best Activities in Manpo

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Manpo

Explore the beautiful natural scenery of Manpo through hiking and enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the landscape.

Fishing at Manpo Lake

Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing day of fishing at Manpo Lake, surrounded by the picturesque countryside.

Tours

Uncover the best of Manpo with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Manpo

Visit one of these nice places.

Chilbo Mountains

Offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and are a popular spot for photography.

Manpho Dam

Provides stunning views of the dam structure and the surrounding countryside, making it a great location for photography.

Mt. Chilbo

Known for its scenic beauty and offers fantastic vantage points for photography enthusiasts.

Food in Manpo

Manpo, Korea, North, offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that reflects a mix of traditional Korean cuisine with regional specialties. From street food stalls to cozy cafes, visitors can immerse themselves in a wide array of flavors and culinary experiences.

Manpo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Naengmyeon

A popular cold noodle dish, usually served in a tangy iced broth with various toppings. Recommended places to try: Simjang-hyesu, a famous local restaurant known for its Naengmyeon.

Must-Try!

Pyongyang Naengmyeon

A variation of Naengmyeon specific to the Pyongyang region, featuring thinner noodles and a milder broth. Recommended places to try: Okryu-gwan, a renowned restaurant known for its Pyongyang-style Naengmyeon.

Pyeonsu

Delicate dumplings filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables, often served in a clear and flavorful broth. Look for them at local family-owned restaurants for an authentic taste.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Manpo better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Manpo Street Food Market

Explore this bustling market to sample an assortment of savory and sweet treats, such as hotteok (filled pancake), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and various skewered delicacies.

Dongmun Market

Dongmun Market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls serving up authentic flavors from the region.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. Snowfall can occur, providing a snowy landscape during the colder months. Summers, on the other hand, are warm and humid, with average high temperatures reaching into the 30s Celsius (high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit). Spring and fall are transitional seasons, featuring mild temperatures but can also be unpredictable in terms of rainfall. Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, with a noticeable peak during the summer months, coinciding with the East Asian monsoon season. Overall, the climate influences the local agriculture, ecology, and lifestyle of the residents.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Use proper titles and greetings

When addressing elders or people in positions of authority, it is important to use the appropriate titles and greetings, such as bowing as a sign of respect.

Respect personal space

In Manpo, it is important to respect personal space and not stand too close when interacting with others, especially with those of higher status.

Observe social customs

Observing social customs such as removing shoes when entering someone's home or using both hands when giving or receiving something demonstrates respect for cultural norms in Manpo.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Manpo with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this region is influenced by various factors, including political stability, environmental conditions, and local governance. Generally, North Korea is known for strict government control and surveillance, leading to a low rate of violent crime; however, the regime's political climate can create an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. Travelers are advised to adhere to local laws and regulations, as any violations may result in harsh penalties. Access to information is tightly controlled, and interactions with locals should be approached with caution. Natural disasters, such as floods and landslides, can also pose safety risks, especially during certain seasons. Overall, safety in this area is multifaceted, combining political, social, and environmental elements that demand careful consideration and awareness from both residents and visitors.

Tipping in Manpo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Manpo, Korea, North. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.

Payment

Payment in Manpo, Korea, North is mostly done with cash. Some establishments may accept credit or debit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for most transactions.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Manpo.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit for blooming cherry blossoms and pleasant weather.

Summer

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rainy days. Great for outdoor activities.

Autumn

Ideal for enjoying the colorful foliage and cool, crisp air.

Winter

Experience cold temperatures and potential snowfall. Perfect for winter sports and festivals.

Manpo at Night

North Korea is known for its strict regulations and limited freedoms, which extend to the nightlife in its cities. In Manpo, a smaller city in the country’s Chagang Province, the nightlife is limited compared to what one might find in other parts of the world. There are no bustling bars, nightclubs, or entertainment venues commonly seen in more liberal societies. Evening activities in Manpo typically center around community events or government-sanctioned activities. Residents may gather for cultural performances, such as traditional music and dance events, organized by local authorities. These performances often serve propaganda purposes, reinforcing loyalty to the state and its leaders. Restaurants, if they operate into the evening, are likely modest and serve basic Korean cuisine. Dining out might be an occasional treat rather than a regular social activity, given the economic conditions and scarcity of resources. Electricity shortages are common across North Korea, including in Manpo, which can limit evening activities further. As a result, many residents may spend their evenings at home, engaging in family activities or quietly reading state-approved literature. Foreign visitors, if allowed into the area, would be subject to stringent controls and guided tours that showcase the regime's achievements, rather than freely exploring any semblance of nightlife. Overall, nightlife in Manpo reflects the broader environment of North Korea, characterized by a lack of personal freedoms, limited economic development, and a focus on state-controlled social activities.

Hiking in Manpo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kumgang

A beautiful mountain range famous for its scenic views, hiking trails, and diverse flora and fauna. Offers a variety of trails for different skill levels.

Mount Myohyang

Known for its stunning landscapes and temple complexes, this area provides several hiking routes that allow for exploration of nature and cultural heritage.

Chonhwasan

A less frequented hiking spot that offers a peaceful environment and picturesque views, suitable for those looking for a quiet nature retreat.

Ulvun Mountain

Features hiking paths that lead to beautiful vistas and wildlife observation opportunities, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Pujin Mountain

This mountain offers a moderate hike with rewarding views at the summit, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Manpo through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Manpo by plane.

Pyongyang International Airport (FNJ)

The main international airport serving Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, located approximately 200 kilometers from Manpo.

Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE)

An international airport in Shenyang, China, situated around 350 kilometers from Manpo, serving as an important hub for flights to North Korea.

Dandong Langdong Airport (DDG)

An airport in Dandong, China, which is approximately 300 kilometers from Manpo, offering limited international flights.

Changchun Longjia International Airport (CGQ)

Located about 500 kilometers from Manpo, this airport services Changchun, China, and offers several international routes.

Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB)

An international airport located in Harbin, China, approximately 600 kilometers from Manpo, providing various international connections.

Walkability

Walkability in Manpo is characterized by a combination of urban planning and the natural environment. The city has a relatively compact layout, which can make it easier for residents to access essential services and amenities on foot. Streets in the city are often lined with basic infrastructure necessary for pedestrians, although the overall maintenance of sidewalks and pedestrian pathways can vary. As a smaller city in North Korea, Manpo does not have the extensive public transportation networks found in larger metropolitan areas, which can encourage walking as a primary means of getting around. The local landscape, featuring parks and green spaces, can further enhance the walking experience, although the availability of these areas may not be as expansive as in larger cities. While many local shops, markets, and community centers are generally accessible by foot, factors such as economic conditions and urban development can impact the availability and quality of amenities nearby. Moreover, walkability may also be influenced by seasonal weather conditions, which can affect how comfortable and safe it is to walk at different times of the year. Overall, walking remains a common mode of transport for the residents of Manpo, especially in this context.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean

Predominantly ethnic Koreans, making up the majority of the population in Manpo.

Chinese

A smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of ethnic Chinese residents.

Other Minority Groups

Includes various other minority groups such as ethnic Russians and other foreigners.

The Soul of Manpo

Discover the essence of Manpo through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Manpo, with local teams participating in regional leagues and competitions.

Table Tennis

Table tennis enjoys a significant following in Manpo, with many schools and community centers providing facilities for training and competitions.

Basketball

Basketball has gained popularity, particularly among the youth, with several courts available for recreational play and organized events.

Athletics

Athletics, including running and track and field events, are promoted in schools and through community sports events in Manpo.

Wrestling

Wrestling is a traditional sport in Korea and remains popular in Manpo, often featured in local festivals and competitions.

Traffic

The city features a relatively low volume of vehicular traffic compared to larger urban centers. Roads are often characterized by their simple design, and the transportation system primarily consists of buses, taxis, and a limited number of private vehicles. The use of bicycles and walking is common among residents, contributing to a quieter atmosphere. Traffic regulations are generally observed, but the level of enforcement can vary. Despite the overall lack of congestion, during peak hours or market days, certain areas can experience mild traffic as people travel to and from local markets or community events. Public transportation plays a significant role, but the availability of services may be less frequent than in more densely populated cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Manpo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

While vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in some traditional restaurants, many establishments in Manpo now offer meat-free dishes, such as bibimbap (mixed rice bowl) and vegetable jeon (pancake). Visit modern cafes and international eateries for more diverse choices.

Gluten-Free Options

Given the prevalence of wheat-based ingredients in Korean cuisine, finding gluten-free options can be challenging. However, some places may offer rice-based dishes or gluten-free versions of popular Korean dishes upon request.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Manpo with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this region operates under the centralized system of North Korea, characterized by government control and limited access to resources. The infrastructure includes several hospitals and clinics, but facilities often face shortages of medical supplies and equipment due to ongoing economic challenges and international sanctions. The government emphasizes preventive care and public health initiatives, with a focus on vaccinations and the treatment of communicable diseases. However, the quality and availability of healthcare can vary significantly, with rural areas typically experiencing greater difficulties in accessing medical services. Healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses, are generally trained in state-run institutions, and medical education focuses heavily on basic care rather than advanced medical technologies. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system aims to provide universal access, albeit with notable limitations in terms of quality and variety of treatments. Efforts to improve healthcare face ongoing obstacles due to economic conditions and lack of international support.

Discover Korea, North

Read more in our Korea, North 2024 Travel Guide.

Korea, North Travel Guide