Things To Do
in Haeju
Haeju is a port city located in South Hwanghae Province in North Korea. It is a significant hub for trade and transportation due to its strategic location along the west coast of the Korean Peninsula. The city is known for its industrial and agricultural activities, particularly in the production of seafood, textiles, and chemicals.
Haeju also boasts historical sites such as the Haeju Lighthouse and the Haeju Folk Hotel, attracting tourists interested in the region's cultural heritage.
- "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 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking coastal area. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and capture stunning views.
Take a boat tour to nearby islands for a glimpse of the unique marine life. Savor a local seafood lunch at a charming seaside restaurant.
Wind down with a leisurely stroll along the beach as the sun sets. Experience the tranquility and beauty of Haeju’s coastline.
Embark on a hiking adventure to the scenic Mount Kumgol. The trek offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
After reaching the summit, enjoy a packed lunch with breathtaking vistas. Descend in the afternoon and explore the local village life.
Relax at your accommodation after an exhilarating day. Reflect on the stunning nature you experienced while enjoying a quiet dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal views and nearby natural beauty including mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as the Haeju Fortress.
- Less crowded than other tourist spots in North Korea, offering a more serene experience.
- Limited access for foreign tourists, as travel to North Korea is heavily restricted.
- Lack of modern amenities and infrastructure, which can affect comfort and convenience.
- Potential language barrier and cultural differences that may pose challenges for visitors.
Best Activities in Haeju
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the breathtaking views and unique rock formations of Mount Kumgang, a significant mountain range that offers various trails suitable for both casual and experienced hikers.
Enjoy walking along Haeju Port, where you can watch fishing boats come in and out, and take in the maritime scenery of the Yellow Sea.
Explore the historical site of Haeju Changhyun Fortress, a strategic military site with impressive architecture and panoramic views of the surroundings.
Spend a day relaxing on the sandy shores of Haeju Beach, ideal for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
Set up camp in designated areas near the outskirts of Haeju, perfect for enjoying nature and stargazing at night.
Tours
Uncover the best of Haeju with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Haeju
Visit one of these nice places.
A small island offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea and the cityscape of Haeju, perfect for sunset photography.
This historic fortress provides a breathtaking view of Haeju and the coastline, along with a glimpse into the area's rich history.
The highest point in the region, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscapes, ideal for hiking and photography.
This park area features beautiful walking trails with spectacular views of the river and surrounding nature, suitable for nature photography.
A hotel with a viewing deck that provides unobstructed views of Haeju’s skyline and the harbor, excellent for both day and night photography.
Food in Haeju
Haeju Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing dish featuring buckwheat noodles in a chilled broth topped with radish, cucumber, and a hard-boiled egg. Best enjoyed at traditional Korean restaurants like Maebongsan or Orohae.
Must-Try!
A popular local specialty consisting of dried, unsalted cutlassfish. Try this delicacy at seafood stalls along the Haeju waterfront or at the Seaside Seafood Market.
A nutritious dish made from acorn starch jelly served with various seasonal vegetables. It can be found at local eateries such as Moranbong Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Haeju better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to sample a variety of street foods, including hotteok (Korean sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and sundae (blood sausage).
Take a stroll along the waterfront and indulge in freshly grilled seafood skewers, kimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and odeng (fish cake skewers) from the local street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Haeju, as in the rest of North Korea, showing respect towards government officials and authority figures is crucial. This includes standing when they enter a room, using formal titles, and refraining from speaking negatively about the government.
Participate in local customs and traditions, such as celebrating national holidays with the community. Understanding and engaging in these practices demonstrates respect and appreciation for the local culture.
Behavior in public areas is observed closely, so it is important to maintain a low profile, avoid loud discussions, and dress modestly. Public displays of affection are frowned upon and should be avoided.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Haeju with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Haeju
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Haeju or North Korea as a whole, primarily due to the government-controlled economy and the absence of a service-oriented culture found in many capitalist societies. Service workers are typically paid a fixed wage by the state, and additional gratuities may be viewed as inappropriate or unnecessary.
In Haeju, as in other areas of North Korea, payment practices are dominated by the state-controlled economy. Transactions are generally conducted using the North Korean won, the country's official currency. However, due to the prevalent black market and economic sanctions, there may be instances where barter or the use of foreign currencies, such as Chinese yuan or US dollars, occurs, especially in informal settings.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Haeju.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Haeju as the weather starts to warm up and flowers bloom. Expect mild temperatures, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing. Tourist attractions such as parks and historical sites are particularly enjoyable during this season.
Summer in Haeju can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This season is typically the wettest, so visitors should be prepared for rain. However, it is also a vibrant time with local festivals, making it an interesting, though potentially uncomfortable, season to experience the culture.
Autumn is considered one of the best times to visit Haeju. The temperatures are cooler and more manageable, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, and it’s an ideal time for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Winter in Haeju is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow can be expected, which gives the city a picturesque winter landscape. While outdoor activities may be limited, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the season and explore indoor attractions.
Haeju at Night
Hiking in Haeju
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain range near Haeju, offering scenic views and various trails suited for different hiking skill levels.
Not a traditional hiking spot, but the surrounding areas provide excellent walking paths overlooking the bay and surrounding nature.
A nearby mountain known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes, featuring trails that offer a moderate hiking experience.
This mountain features unique rock formations and challenging hikes, popular among local hikers looking for adventure.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Haeju through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Haeju by plane.
The main international airport serving the capital city of Pyongyang, North Korea.
South Korea's main international airport, located near Seoul, it is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world.
Located in Seoul, Gimpo is an international airport that primarily serves flights to Japan and domestic destinations.
Located in Shenyang, China, this airport serves as an international gateway to northeast China.
An international airport located in Dalian, China, which connects to various domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Haeju, consisting of ethnic Koreans native to the region.
A small community of ethnic Chinese residing in Haeju, often involved in trade and business.
Includes a few other smaller ethnic groups, though they are very limited in number.
The Soul of Haeju
Discover the essence of Haeju through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Haeju, as well as in North Korea. The sport enjoys mass participation and is often played in schools and local clubs.
Basketball has a significant following in North Korea, with many facilities available for playing the game. It is popular among youth and is seen as a symbol of physical fitness.
Table tennis is widely played across North Korea, including in Haeju. The sport is promoted by the government, and local competitions are common.
Weightlifting is a sport that is widely respected in North Korea, and Haeju has facilities that train athletes for local and national competitions.
Volleyball is also popular in Haeju and is commonly played in schools and by local teams. The sport is promoted for both men and women.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haeju.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in Haeju, some restaurants offer vegetable-based bibimbap and tofu dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly and seek customization where possible.
Gluten-free options are limited in traditional Korean cuisine due to the prevalent use of soy sauce and wheat-based ingredients. Opt for grilled meats, seafood dishes, and rice-based sides while communicating your dietary needs to restaurant staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Haeju with these cultural adventures.