Things To Do
in Anju
Anju is a city located in the southern part of North Korea, in the South Pyongan province. It is an important industrial city known for its chemical and machinery industries. Anju has a historical significance as it was once a major cultural and political center of the Koguryo kingdom.
The city is surrounded by picturesque mountains and is home to many cultural sites and landmarks.
- "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "감사합니다 (gamsahabnida)" - Thank you
- "미안합니다 (mianhamnida)" - Sorry
- "사랑 (sarang)" - Love
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): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Anju Revolutionary Site to understand the historical significance of the area. Take a guided tour to explore the artifacts and stories from North Korea's revolutionary history.
Head to the Anju Museum to see exhibitions featuring local culture and history. Enjoy a local lunch at a restaurant nearby to experience authentic North Korean cuisine.
Stroll through the city center to soak in the daily life of Anju. Consider dining at a traditional table-service restaurant to end the day with a local delicacy.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Kuryong Waterfall, a serene spot for nature enthusiasts. Capture beautiful photographs of the lush landscapes.
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature at the waterfall site. Afterward, take a guided hike through the trails in the surrounding area.
Return to Anju and relax at a local café to unwind. Sample some local tea and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Beautiful natural scenery and mountainous terrain.
- Unique opportunity to experience a different political and social system.
- Potential for agricultural development due to fertile land.
- Limited access to information and communication due to strict government control.
- Poor infrastructure and inadequate public services.
- Severe restrictions on personal freedoms and human rights issues.
- Risk of political instability and implications for safety.
Best Activities in Anju
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Kumgang, known for its stunning peaks, valleys, and waterfalls. Hiking trails vary in difficulty, providing options for all skill levels.
Experience the unique outdoor sculptures and installations that celebrate North Korean culture and history. The park is a peaceful setting for leisurely walks and appreciation of art.
Enjoy guided bicycle tours through the picturesque countryside surrounding Anju. This activity allows for a closer look at rural life and natural beauty.
Spend a day by the Anju River, perfect for families and groups. Enjoy picnicking, local food, and the serene environment along the riverbank.
Stroll through Anju's outdoor markets to discover local produce, crafts, and to experience the vibrant daily life of the community.
Places to Visit in Anju
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its stunning granite peaks and beautiful scenery, Mount Kumgang offers numerous viewpoints where visitors can capture breathtaking photographs of the landscape and surrounding nature.
This location provides a picturesque view of the Jangmadang River, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, ideal for capturing serene landscapes.
Head to the nearby hills for an elevated view of Anju city, providing an excellent opportunity for panoramic photographs of both the urban and natural scenery.
Surrounded by beautiful natural settings, Pohyon Temple is not only a site of cultural significance but also a great spot for photographing traditional Korean architecture against stunning landscapes.
This waterfall offers a stunning view, especially during the spring when the surrounding plants are in full bloom, creating a spectacular scene for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Anju
Anju Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This iconic dish features long, thin noodles made from buckwheat and potato starch, served in a tangy iced broth with slices of cucumbers, Korean pear, and a boiled egg. Head to the Sariwon Restaurant for a superb rendition of this local favorite.
Must-Try!
No visit to Anju is complete without sampling Kimchi, a staple of Korean cuisine. Made of fermented vegetables, usually with Napa cabbage and Korean radishes, it offers a spicy and tangy flavor. It's readily available at most eateries and food stalls around the city.
This popular mixed rice dish is a harmonious blend of seasoned vegetables, egg, and often, a choice of meat, served with a spicy gochujang sauce. Look for the local eatery, Hyangsan Hotel, for a delectable Bibimbap experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Stroll through the bustling stalls of Kim Duk Market to immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Anju. Here, you can savor street food delights such as Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), Hotteok (sweet pancakes), and various skewered meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Anju, as in the rest of North Korea, showing respect for authority is crucial. This includes deference to government officials and adherence to the expectations set by the state. It's considered respectful to greet individuals in positions of power formally and to follow their instructions without question.
The cultural norm in Anju emphasizes collectivism, meaning that the community's needs take precedence over individual desires. Engaging in group activities and showing solidarity with fellow community members are valued behaviors. This includes participating in communal events and helping neighbors when needed.
Demonstrating reverence for the country's leaders, particularly Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, is expected. This is often expressed through displays of loyalty, such as participating in state-sanctioned events that honor their legacy. Avoiding negative comments about the leadership is essential to maintaining respect and avoiding conflict.
Safety
Tipping in Anju
Ensure a smooth experience
In North Korea, tipping is not a common practice and is generally frowned upon due to the country's socialist structure. Most services, including those in restaurants and hotels, are expected to be included in the price. However, in rare instances where tipping may occur, it is usually small and given discreetly.
Payment in North Korea is typically made using the local currency, the North Korean won (KPW). Foreign currency can be used in certain areas, particularly in designated hotels and shops that cater to foreign visitors. Electronic payment methods are limited, and cash transactions are the norm. Prices for goods and services can vary significantly depending on whether one is in a state-run establishment or a more private enterprise.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Anju, from March to May, is a pleasant time to visit. Expect mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms, especially in April. This season is ideal for outdoor activities and experiencing local festivals.
Summer lasts from June to August and can be quite hot and humid. Expect temperatures above 30°C (86°F). This is a good time for experiencing local culture, but be prepared for potential monsoon rains and higher humidity.
Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent time to visit. The weather is cooler, and the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange. This season is perfect for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Winter in Anju, from December to February, is cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Expect snow, which can offer a unique winter landscape. This season is low in tourist traffic, providing a peaceful experience, but outdoor activities can be limited due to the weather.
Anju at Night
Hiking in Anju
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning range featuring beautiful peaks, lush forests, and numerous trails suitable for various skill levels. This area is known for its picturesque landscapes and is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities.
Famous for its unique granite formations and rich biodiversity, Mount Myohyang offers various hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, along with opportunities to explore temples and historical sites.
The highest mountain in North Korea, Mount Paektu is revered in Korean culture. The area has several hiking routes leading to the summit, offering breathtaking views of the crater lake and surrounding landscape.
Chilbosan, or 'Seven Treasures Mountain,' is known for its scenic beauty and offers multiple hiking trails. Hikers can enjoy views of unique rock formations, waterfalls, and lush vegetation.
Aiports
How to reach Anju by plane.
The largest airport in North Korea, serving the capital city of Pyongyang.
Located in Beijing, China, this is one of the busiest airports in the world, providing international flights to various destinations.
An important international airport located in Shanghai, China, known for its extensive flight connections.
Located in South Korea, near Seoul, this airport is a major hub in East Asia with numerous international flights.
Located in Dalian, China, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Anju, comprising the national identity.
A small group primarily engaged in trade and business activities.
A group of ethnic Koreans from China, involved in various economic sectors.
Includes other minority groups and expatriates.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in North Korea, with a strong following at both the grassroots and professional levels.
Basketball is widely played and is a significant part of the sports culture in North Korea, with many youth actively participating in the sport.
Table tennis enjoys considerable popularity in North Korea, with the country having produced some notable players over the years.
Wrestling is a traditional sport in North Korea, often featured in national sports competitions and viewed as a source of national pride.
Athletics, including track and field events, is encouraged in schools and competitions, showcasing the country's emphasis on physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anju.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Korean cuisine heavily features meats and seafood, some restaurants in Anju offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of popular dishes like Bibimbap and Kimchi. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly and seek recommendations from local residents or restaurant staff.
Avoiding gluten in Anju may pose some challenges due to the prevalent use of soy sauce and wheat-containing ingredients in many dishes. However, some establishments may accommodate gluten-free requests with prior notice. Check with the restaurant in advance to ensure a seamless dining experience.