Things To Do
in Rajin

Rajin is a port city located in North Korea. It is situated in the northeastern part of the country, near the border with Russia and China. The city serves as an important hub for trade and transportation in the region.

Rajin is known for its beautiful coastal scenery and is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring North Korea's maritime culture.

  • "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 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Rajin's History
morning
:

Visit the Rajin Museum to learn about the city's history and culture. The exhibits feature artifacts and information about the area's rich past.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll around the city center, noting the unique architecture and local shops. Stop by a café to enjoy traditional Korean tea and snacks.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in North Korean cuisine. Experience the flavors and culinary styles unique to the region.

day 2
Coastal Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Rajin Beach. Enjoy the scenic views and consider a refreshing swim in the sea.

afternoon
:

Explore the coastal trails that offer stunning vistas of the coastline. Capture photographs of the natural beauty and local wildlife.

evening
:

Relax at a beachside bar with a drink as the sun sets over the ocean. It's a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strategic location near the Russian and Chinese borders, facilitating trade and transport.
  • Access to the Sea of Japan, providing potential for maritime trade.
  • Home to the Rajin-Sonbong Economic Trade Zone, which attracts foreign investment and development.
  • Limited infrastructure and poor transportation networks within the region.
  • Economic limitations due to North Korea's overall restrictive policies.
  • Political instability and uncertainty affecting business operations.
  • Human rights concerns and lack of personal freedoms impacting the quality of life.

Best Activities in Rajin

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Seoraksan National Park

Explore the stunning natural beauty, go hiking, and enjoy the scenic views.

Ullim Waterfall

Visit the picturesque waterfall and enjoy the surrounding nature.

Rajin Port Beach

Relax on the beach, enjoy water activities, and take in the coastal views.

Tours

Uncover the best of Rajin with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Rajin

Visit one of these nice places.

Rajin Seaside Park

Offers stunning views of the sea, and great photo opportunities with the coastal landscape and sunset.

Rajin Port Observation Deck

Provides panoramic views of the port, ships, and surrounding area, ideal for capturing unique photos of the harbor and activities.

Food in Rajin

Rajin, located in Korea, North, boasts a rich culinary heritage that combines traditional Korean flavors with influences from neighboring countries. With its diverse offerings, visitors can enjoy a wide range of dishes, from spicy stews to savory pancakes.

Rajin Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pyeongyang Naengmyeon

A popular dish featuring chewy buckwheat noodles served in a chilled broth, topped with cucumbers, slices of beef, and a hard-boiled egg. It can be found at various local eateries such as Daejangkum Naengmyeon.

Must-Try!

Japchae

A flavorful dish made with clear glass noodles cooked with thinly sliced vegetables, beef or mushrooms, and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. Look out for this dish at Hae Oreum Jjapaguri restaurant.

Kimchi

No visit to Rajin would be complete without trying Korea's iconic fermented side dish, made of seasoned vegetables like napa cabbage and radishes, with a range of flavors like spicy, sour, and umami. Sample authentic Kimchi at the Seaweed Kimchi House.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Rajin better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rajin Central Market

Explore this bustling market to experience a variety of local street food such as Hotteok (sweet Korean pancake), Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and Odeng (fish cake skewers).

Weather

The climate in this area is classified as a continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid. Average temperatures in summer can reach the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius, whereas winter temperatures can fall to around -10 degrees Celsius or lower. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with a slight increase during the summer months due to monsoonal influences. The region experiences occasional typhoons and heavy rainfall from late summer to early fall, particularly in August and September. Additionally, the area is known for its variable weather, with rapid changes possible due to its geographical location. The effects of the surrounding seas also play a role in moderating temperatures, though the overall climate remains marked by significant seasonal contrasts.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect elders

In Rajin, it is important to show respect to elders by using formal language and bowing as a sign of respect.

Remove shoes indoors

When entering someone's home or certain indoor spaces, it is customary to remove shoes as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the space.

Use both hands when giving or receiving

When giving or receiving items, particularly when involving elders, it is considered respectful to use both hands as a sign of politeness and respect for the other person.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Rajin with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this coastal city is influenced by several factors, including its geographical location, political environment, and local infrastructure. As a special economic zone, it has attracted some foreign investment, which can enhance safety protocols in certain areas. However, the overall safety can be affected by the broader context of North Korea, including its strict government controls and the potential for civil unrest. Visitors and residents are advised to be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Emergency services are limited, and communication with the outside world can be restricted. It's important to follow local laws and regulations closely, as the consequences for infractions can be severe. In terms of crime, there is generally a low level of violent crime, but petty theft can occur, specifically in crowded areas. Travelers should remain vigilant, travel in groups when possible, and avoid displaying signs of wealth or valuables. Understanding local customs and respecting cultural norms can also contribute to a safer experience.

Tipping in Rajin

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Rajin, Korea, North, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected in most situations. It is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants, taxis, or other service establishments.

Payment

Payment in Rajin, Korea, North is mainly done using cash. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It is advisable to carry enough cash for transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Rajin for pleasant weather, lush greenery, and cherry blossoms.

Summer

Expect warm temperatures and possible rainfall, but a good time for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Autumn

Ideal for experiencing beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Winter

Best time for winter sports and experiencing the snowy landscapes, but prepare for cold temperatures.

Rajin at Night

North Korea, known for its strict governmental controls and limited freedoms, offers a far more subdued and controlled nightlife experience than many other places in the world. Rajin, a special economic zone and port city within the nascent Rason Special Economic Zone, serves as an exception to some stringent rules due to its unique position aimed at attracting foreign investment. Nightlife in Rajin is relatively modest, with few dedicated bars or clubs. The entertainment options primarily cater to foreign visitors and businesspeople rather than locals, reflecting the city's goal of appealing to international interests. A handful of hotels might feature modest bars or lounges where one can have a drink, but these establishments are not the bustling nightlife spots found elsewhere in Asia. Foreigners visiting Rajin might find a few restaurants that stay open later in the evening, serving a mix of Korean cuisine and international dishes. Some of these establishments may offer karaoke or live music, but such options are limited and highly regulated. In general, North Korea's nightlife, even in special economic zones like Rajin, is restrained. The atmosphere is far from the energetic and vibrant scenes typical in many major cities around the world. The emphasis remains on maintaining order and conforming to the boundaries set by the government.

Hiking in Rajin

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kumgang

A famous mountain range offering breathtaking views and various hiking trails. It's located relatively close to Rajin and is known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance.

Changbai Mountain

Located near the border with China, this mountain is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. It offers several hiking routes suitable for different experience levels.

Mount Baekdu

An iconic and sacred mountain that offers various hiking options. The trails provide scenic views and a chance to experience the unique flora and fauna of the region.

Mudeungsan National Park

A national park that includes mountainous terrain and numerous hiking trails. The park is known for its unique rock formations and diverse ecosystems, making it a great destination for hiking enthusiasts.

Rujin Hill

A less traveled hiking spot near Rajin that offers a quiet escape and stunning views of the surrounding area. It's ideal for those seeking a peaceful nature walk.

Aiports

How to reach Rajin by plane.

Rajin Airport (RSU)

The closest airport to Rajin, serving domestic and limited international flights.

Chennai International Airport (MAA)

Located in India, it's one of the major international airports in the region, approximately 600 km away.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

A major international airport located in Shanghai, China, about 800 km to the south.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

South Korea's primary international airport located in Incheon, approximately 1000 km away.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

One of the busiest airports in the world, located in Beijing, China, around 1000 km from Rajin.

Walkability

In this northeastern corner of North Korea, the city's layout promotes accessibility for pedestrians, with many areas being easily navigable on foot. The urban design includes a grid pattern of streets, allowing for straightforward navigation among residential and commercial areas. Sidewalks, where present, provide space for pedestrians, although their condition can vary. The presence of local markets, shops, and public spaces contributes to a vibrant street life, encouraging residents to walk rather than rely on motorized transport. However, transportation options like taxis or buses are available for longer distances, facilitating movement beyond the immediate vicinity. While environmental factors such as weather can influence walkability, the general atmosphere encourages outdoor activities. Community interactions often occur in these walking spaces, fostering social connections among locals. Although infrastructure may not always meet international standards, the compact nature of the city encourages walking as a practical mode of transport for everyday activities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean

Ethnic Koreans make up the majority of the population in Rajin, as in most of North Korea.

Chinese

A small population of ethnic Chinese reside in Rajin, primarily as traders and business people.

Russian

There is a minor demographic of ethnic Russians in Rajin, often connected to historical trade and economic activities.

Other Minorities

A very small number of other ethnic groups may be present, including ethnic minorities from neighboring areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Rajin, with a strong local following and many youth teams participating in regional competitions.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Rajin, with many schools having teams and organized local leagues.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is widely played in Rajin, with many people engaging in the sport recreationally as well as competitively.

Weightlifting

Weightlifting has a significant presence in Rajin, reflecting the country's emphasis on strength sports in its athletic programs.

Martial Arts

Martial arts, including Taekwondo and other traditional forms, are practiced widely in Rajin, focusing on discipline, respect, and physical fitness.

Traffic

Located in the northeastern part of North Korea, the city experiences a mix of local and international traffic, primarily influenced by its proximity to the border with China. The roads are generally less congested compared to urban centers in South Korea, but they can still experience periodic traffic, especially during market days or major events. The infrastructure in this area primarily consists of narrow streets that may not be in the best condition, often affecting the flow of vehicles. Vehicles seen on the roads include taxis, private cars, and trucks, with many residents relying on public transport and bicycles for their daily commute. Given the city's strategic location as a port city on the Japan Sea and its role in trade, maritime traffic is also significant, with ships docking at the harbor to facilitate the exchange of goods. The overall traffic situation reflects the economic conditions and limited resources present in the region. Environmental factors, like snowfall during winter months, can also impact traffic patterns, leading to delays and disruptions. Overall, the traffic in this area exhibits a unique blend of local dynamics shaped by its geographic and economic context.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rajin.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Korean cuisine often features meat, many restaurants in Rajin offer vegetable-based dishes like Bibimbap (mixed rice bowl), Tofu Kimchi, and Japchae, making it relatively easy for vegetarians and vegans to find satisfying meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Those with gluten restrictions can opt for dishes like Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) and certain types of Kimchi, while communicating their dietary needs to the staff at local eateries can often result in customized gluten-free options.

Healthcare

Situated in the northern part of the Korean Peninsula, this region has a healthcare system that reflects the broader context of the country's healthcare policies and economic conditions. The healthcare infrastructure is largely state-run, with the government providing most medical services free of charge to its citizens. This system is based on the principle of universal healthcare, aiming to ensure that all residents have access to medical attention. However, the quality and availability of healthcare services can vary significantly. Urban areas may have better facilities and access to medical professionals, while rural regions often face challenges such as shortages of medicines and medical staff. Basic healthcare services are provided through hospitals, clinics, and community health posts, but specialized care may be limited. In recent years, the country has faced difficulties due to economic sanctions, leading to diminished resources for healthcare infrastructure and services. There are reports of inadequate medical supplies, outdated equipment, and challenges in maintaining facilities. Additionally, public health issues such as malnutrition and infectious diseases remain a concern, exacerbated by limited access to advanced medical care. Despite these challenges, the government continues to promote public health campaigns, focusing on preventive care, maternal and child health, and efforts to control communicable diseases. The healthcare system is heavily influenced by political factors, including ideologies surrounding self-reliance and the impact of international relations on healthcare resources.

Discover Korea, North

Read more in our Korea, North 2024 Travel Guide.

Korea, North Travel Guide