Monuments of Korea. South Korea: the best places for tourism and the culture of the country. Chagalchi Fish Market

There are many more reasons to visit South Korea than just the cancellation of visas.

Firstly, this is a very distinctive country with a rich history and unique cultural monuments.
Secondly, stunning nature and many options for recreation - hot springs, beaches, ski resorts.

Thirdly, South Korea keeps up with the times, and sometimes gets ahead of it. A rare fusion of tradition and innovation awaits you, so there are activities and entertainment to suit every taste.

In addition, South Korea is still not the most popular or even exotic destination, so if you are looking for off-the-beaten-path routes, urgently book a ticket for a Moscow-Seoul flight.

When to go:

You can go to South Korea all year round, but remember that the country is located in a temperate climate zone, so the seasons there are very distinct. Winter is a time for skiers, but not only. Koreans brighten up the cold with a variety of winter-themed festivals. For example, the Tebaksan Natural Park hosts the Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival. Want to bask in the sun? Then you need to plan your trip for the summer and choose seaside resorts. At this time the temperature rises to +35C.

Sightseeing lovers should go to South Korea in the spring, from mid-March to June. At this time it is already warm, there are many sunny days, and the monsoon rainy season has not yet arrived. Spring is the time of cherry blossoms. But autumn is also good in South Korea - bright, colorful, without precipitation until the end of September.

How to get there:

Aeroflot and Korean Air fly direct from Moscow to Seoul. The flight will take about 10 hours. The cost of a round-trip ticket is from 30,700 rubles. It will be cheaper (from 26,242 rubles) to fly with a transfer in Dubai with Emirates airlines or in Helsinki with Finnair airlines. From Incheon International Airport, located 52 km from Seoul, the city can be reached by express bus or taxi.

How to get around:

South Korea is a small country, so it’s worth taking advantage of this and traveling outside the capital. Getting around is very convenient: the main cities are connected by rail, and traveling to the sound of wheels in South Korea, which values advanced technology, is very pleasant. Trains are divided into 4 types according to speed and level of comfort. The very best are the super-fast KTX. Then there are the Saemaeul express trains, the Mugunghwa high-speed train and the Thong-il passenger train.

For foreigners, there are special general KR Pass tickets, which can be purchased online. This is a kind of pass for all types of trains, except the metro, with no restrictions on the number of trips. In addition, for tourists, the Haeran train runs with compartments similar to hotel rooms, a restaurant and an observation deck.

Suburban buses are also very convenient. They run frequently, are equipped with air conditioning, and sometimes even have free wireless Internet. Do you want complete freedom? Rent a car. Well-known rental agencies operate in South Korea, for example, AVIS. However, keep in mind that traffic in the country is on the right and in large cities it is very heavy. Road signs are written in Korean and are duplicated in English in small print.

Where to go and what to see:

The first thing that comes to mind is, of course, Seoul. The capital and largest city of South Korea. This is where acquaintance with the country usually begins. Are you planning a cultural program? Seoul is perfect for you. There are four royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty and the oldest royal palace of the Gyeongbokgung era. The spirit of the past is still felt in the palaces, and magnificent ceremonies are still held today.

You can travel back in time by walking along Insadong Street, a piece of old Seoul. There you will find many cozy cafes and tea houses, restaurants with local cuisine and traditional souvenirs.

In addition to antiquities, one of the most popular attractions among tourists is a trip to the Demilitarized Zone on the border of South and North Korea. Foreigners are allowed to climb through a secret tunnel dug 70 meters below the border. You can only enter the Demilitarized Zone with an organized tour.

But you can safely go to 4DX, a 4D cinema. It was in South Korea that the first such cinemas appeared. They are strikingly different from the 3D to which we are already accustomed: in addition to visual effects, in 4DX you can feel movement and smells, feel the wind and splashes of water.

You can easily spend a week or even more in Seoul, but the impression of South Korea will not be complete, so go to other cities, and on the way, do not deny yourself the pleasure of visiting small villages.

By the way, two historical Korean villages, founded back in the 13th-14th centuries, are even included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as important monuments of Confucian culture. This is the village of Hahoe in the city of Andong (Gyeongsangnam-do province) and Yangdong in the city of Gyeongju (Gyeongsangbuk-do province). Andong is known not only as the cradle of Confucianism, but also as the home of the yangban, the Korean nobles. Some of their traditional dwellings have survived to this day and function as hotels.

The entire historical center of Gyeongju, the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, is a UNESCO site. The ancient Buddhist temple of Bulguksa and Cheomseongdae, the oldest observatory that has survived to this day, have survived.

Busan, the country's second largest city and also the sea capital of South Korea, is famous for its skyscrapers, and the world's largest department store located there Shinsegae Centum City will delight shopaholics.

Tired of big cities? Busan has many beautiful parks: Taejeongdae, Hale National Marine Park, Haeundae and Gwanalli Beaches, Geumgang Park and Monnae Hot Springs. In search of peace, quiet and perhaps the meaning of life, go to Thondos Monastery, where Buddhist relics are kept.

Daegu is beautifully located in a valley surrounded by low mountains and is a major Buddhist center with numerous temples. The main attraction and pride of Daegu is the highly revered Haeinsa Temple, which houses the Tripitaka Koreana, the most complete collection of Buddhist canons in East Asia. Don't miss the Chikchisa Monastery with its ancient columns and thousands of small Buddha statues.

The city of Suwon is also interesting. Hwaseong Fortress, although not very ancient (only the end of the 18th century), is very beautiful, and the Korean Folk Village is located nearby. Suwon itself enchants with its harmonious combination of new and old, this is especially noticeable on the street of restaurants, where the aroma of kalbi, grilled ribs, simply drives you crazy.

The islands deserve special attention. In the Yellow Sea lies the island of Ganghwado, and on it there are as many as 120 dolmens, ancient burial structures. There is also an altar to Tangun, the legendary founder of the nation, and other younger landmarks.

Jeju Island is a popular seaside resort with a mild tropical climate. If you are into golf, then Jeju is a must. It is home to 16 golf clubs and is known as the Island of Golf, one of South Korea's most popular sports.

Are you dreaming of a winter fairy tale? For snow, skiers need to go to Yeonpyeong, Phoenix Park and Hyundai Songgu.

But the most important thing you cannot leave South Korea without are natural hot springs. An hour and a half drive from Seoul are “Asan Spavis”, open-air thermal springs - you can swim in them even in cold weather. Pamper yourself with unusual treatments such as a pool with jasmine extract or a yellow clay sauna.

Koreans themselves love to soak in hot water, but they won’t refuse to go down the water slide with the breeze. One of the most popular water parks, Seorak Wotopia, is located near the Seoraksan Mountains on the coast of the East Sea. Even if you don't really like water activities, it's worth a visit: Seoraksan is part of the Kumgangsan mountain range, which means “Diamond Mountains,” and is considered one of the most picturesque places in the world.

What to do:

In addition to hot springs and golf, there are other entertainments in Korea that, at the mention of which, the heart of every Korean begins to beat faster. Oddly enough, this is baseball. The favorite American pastime was so loved in the East that it became practically a national sport. If you have never been to the USA and have not seen this game, be sure to go, just study the rules in advance, otherwise it may be a bit boring.

The second is walking in the mountains. This is probably one of the secrets of Korean longevity: fresh air, physical activity and contemplation of picturesque views greatly contribute to increasing life expectancy.

What to try:

Koreans eat a lot of rice, but they also really like soups and seafood dishes. An obligatory component of the meal is kimchi, that is, pickled vegetables. Fruits are usually served for dessert, and infusions and makkori rice wine are popular drinks.

Koreans love to eat and take food very seriously, but fat people are rarely seen. Probably the whole point is that all dishes, according to the Koreans themselves, are extremely healthy.

What to buy:

In South Korea there is a lot of everything that is an everyday item for locals, but exotic and a good gift for foreigners. Here you can find very beautiful pearl products, boxes inlaid with mother-of-pearl, fans, embroidery, masks, wooden and ceramic products.

The special pride of South Korea is ginseng. It is sold in different forms - tea, tinctures, extracts, dried and sun-dried ginseng, in honey, in alcohol, in syrup. There are even chocolates and candies with ginseng. Original and, as they say, useful.

(Busan): Don't be put off by the word "motel" in the name. Here you will find excellent value for money and modern comfort with a touch of Asian flavor.

Tempting and mysterious South Korea attracts tourists not only with its rich cultural and historical heritage, but also with its special atmosphere. Buddhism, who has lived here for many years, undoubtedly played a significant role in this.

What so interesting can this ancient country tell us? Let's try to figure out which attractions are worth visiting in South Korea first, and also admire the beautiful photos of these places with their detailed descriptions.

Religious buildings

South Korea is home to many ancient temples and shrines, mostly Buddhist. Sinheungsa Temple, located on the slopes of Seoraksan, is now considered the oldest Zen Buddhist temple in the world.
The temple was built in 653 AD, however, it soon completely burned down in a fire, and it was restored in 710. Later, in 1645, the temple suffered another fire, three years after which it was completely restored again.
On the way to the temple you will be greeted by a huge Buddha sculpture, made of gilded bronze, weighing up to 108 tons!

It is very unusual Temple of 1000 Buddhas, located in the middle of the mountain forests of South Korea. It consists of several hundred tall Buddha statues gathered in a circle, in the center of which there is a beautiful multi-meter statue of a bronze Bodhisattva sitting on a lotus.

The oldest Buddhist temple, located in Seoul on the slope of Sudo, is Boneungsa Temple. It was built back in 794, but, unfortunately, at the end of the 20th century it was almost completely destroyed.

Today the temple has been restored again and is open to tourists. Moreover, this place is unique in that anyone can transform into a monk for 1 day, trying to live the life they live.

Surprisingly, on the streets of Seoul you will also find a Catholic church - Myeongdong Cathedral. Built not so long ago, in 1898 The cathedral is beautifully designed in the neo-Gothic style. The height of the temple reaches 45 meters! At first XX centuries, the relics of Korean martyrs were buried here.

Here are some more interesting temples in South Korea:

Seokguram Cave Temple (top of Thokhamsan);
Dong-hak-sa Monastery (Garyongsan);
Haedong Yeongungungsa Temple;

Bongwonsa Palace (Ahn);
Jongmyo Shrine;
Temple of Pomos;
Bulguksa Buddhist Monastery.

Architecture

Gyeongbokgung Palace, located in the capital of South Korea, is one of the most important architectural landmarks of Seoul. For many years, it served as the residence of the kings of the Joseon Dynasty, which is why it is called “royal”. Unfortunately, in the middle of the last century, most of the palace was destroyed during the occupation of South Korea, but its restoration began in 1990.

Now you can see it here:

Imperial Throne Room;
Gyeonghoeru Pavilion;

Hexagonal Pavilion Hyangwonjeong;
Gwanghwamun Gate.

Imperial Throne Room

Gwanghwamun Gate

One of the most famous palaces in South Korea is also Changdeokgung Palace, which translated means “Castle of Prosperous Virtue.” It is also located in the capital of the Republic, in one of the largest parks in the city - Jongno-gu. This palace also did not escape partial destruction during the Japanese occupation, but even now it attracts with its beauty and grandeur.

On its territory there is also a beautiful Huwon Garden, where the royal family once often vacationed.

Changdeokgung Palace

Huwon Garden

Deoksugung Palace, located in Seoul, was also at one time the residence of the rulers of the Joseon Dynasty. Translated, its name means “palace of virtuous longevity.” This is an entire architectural ensemble that amazes with its beauty. On its territory there is a beautiful garden with graceful paths. And here you can get acquainted with Royal Museum, which displays a collection of objects from the Joseon Dynasty and a collection of works by contemporary artists.

There are also modern buildings in Seoul that are striking in their grandeur. This is Seoul Tower, located in the city of Namsan. Its height reaches 237 meters, and due to the fact that it is located on a hill, in general, from its observation deck you can look at the city from a height of 480 meters!

In addition to the observation deck, in the tower you can visit many restaurants and cafes, souvenir shops, a cinema, an observatory and exhibition centers.
We also recommend watching:

Unhyeonggung Palace(Seoul);
Changdeokgung Palace(Seoul);
Bell tower "Posingak"(Jongno Ave., Seoul);
Dongdaemun Gate(Seoul);
Namdaemun Gate(Sunnyemun, Seoul);
Incheon Bridge(Seoul);

Banpodaegyo Bridge(Rainbow Fountain, Seoul);
Gwanghwamun Square(Seoul);
Jinju Fortress(Jinju city);
Baekje Dynasty Cultural Complex(Buyeo city);
Hwaseong Fortress;
Cheomseongdae Observatory.

Monuments

One of the most important monuments in South Korea is the Republic of Korea War Memorial, located in Seoul. It is both a monument and a grand museum.

It contains objects and documents relating to all military actions in which South Korea has ever taken part. And military equipment was located in the open air.

Independence Gate- also one of the important attractions of Seoul.

Made of granite, the memorial reaches 14 meters in height and 11 meters in width.

One of the most unusual attractions in South Korea is perhaps Erotic sculpture park. It is located on Jeju Island, which is traditionally a destination for newlyweds, and was created for educational purposes.

There are about 140 sculptures of people in various erotic poses on display here. Educational films for young people are also shown in the park.

In South Korea you can also visit:

Monument “38th Parallel” (Seoul);
Statue of Admiral Lee Sun-sin (Seoul);
Statue of King Sejong (Seoul);
Kobukson Ship Monument (Yeosu);

Monument to Lee Sun-sin (Yeosu);
Monument to Kim Si Min (Jinju);
Monument to King Sejong the Great (city of Dejong).

Museums

National Museum of Korea- the main museum of the country, which displays the entire history of its development. The museum is now located in Yongsan Family Park. On the ground floor you can see a large exhibition of archaeological finds from the Paleolithic to the present day. The second and third floors feature fine art galleries.

National Folk Museum of Korea, located in Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, is a rich art and history museum. It has more than 4 thousand exhibits showing the daily life of ordinary Koreans at different times.

National Folk Museum of Korea

National Museum of Korea

The exhibition is divided into 3 parts:

History of the Korean people from the Paleolithic to the Bronze Age;
Folk crafts and art;
Rituals and traditions of Korea.

Those interested in the traditional way of life of the Korean people may be interested in visiting a number of “traditional folk villages”:

Hahoe Folk Village;
Traditional Korean village Namsangol Hanok;
Korean folk village near Suwon.

Also in South Korea you can visit:

"Seoul Cultural Station 284" (old building of Seoul Station);
Wax Museum “63” (Seoul);
Kansong Art Museum (Seoul);
Gallery of drawings on hanji paper by Cho Su-jeong (Seoul);
Seodaemun Prison Historical Museum (Seoul);

Trick Eye Museum (Seoul);
Car Museum (Jeju Island);
Huam Historical Park (at the foot of the city of Kejoksan);
Independence Museum (Cheonan);
Beautiful Tea Museum;
Science Museum (Daejeon).

Natural attractions

Bukhansan National Park- one of the largest and most beautiful in South Korea. It is located near Seoul.

Most of the park is occupied by beautiful forests, and in some places you can see granite rocks that reach 1 km in height!

The park is also famous for the fact that ancient Buddhist temples and medieval fortresses have been preserved on its vast territory.

No less popular among tourists Seoraksan National Park, located in Gangwon Province. This amazingly picturesque place is a combination of granite peaks, high waterfalls, mysterious caves, rich forests and ancient Buddhist temples.

And the special pride of the park are the wonderful mountains Seorakasan. The park is also home to many rare species of animals and plants.

An amazing holiday destination in the center of Seoul that has no analogues in the world is Cheonggyecheon Park.

The walking area, located along the stream of the same name, is paved with paving slabs and is 8 km long. Throughout the park, graceful bridges rise above the stream, and there are also many beautiful fountains. If you want to visit other countries where Buddhism reigns, then this will help you. India is the birthplace of religions such as Buddhism and Jainism. This country has thousands of ancient attractions that will be of interest to any traveler. There are a large number of attractions, spa resorts, as well as ski and beach resorts, for example Goa:

Where to go in South Korea with children?

South Korea has a lot of interesting places and entertainment for children. We recommend visiting:

COEX Aquarium (Seoul);
Entertainment complex "Lotte World" (Seoul);
Everland Amusement Park (Seoul);
Seoul Great Park (Seoul);

Rich in history and culture, authentic cuisine and beautiful scenery, South Korea is definitely worth a visit, but where to start?

Jeju

Jeju is the largest island in South Korea and one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It is located in the south of the country, far from the capital, but Jeju is easily accessible by plane. The most picturesque place on the island is the volcano and Hallasan National Park. At the top of the volcano there is a beautiful crater, and the area around is filled with lava tubes - rock formations that remain from eruptions. Don't miss Cheongjieon Falls, another local attraction.

Damyang

Tamyan County is located in the south of the country. Tourists are attracted here, no matter how strange it may sound, by local bamboo: there is a theme park and a bamboo museum, local shops sell cutlery and souvenirs made from it, and in a cafe you can try bamboo wine or ice cream. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the local mountains of Byeongungsan and Chuwolsan.

Deokjeok

This small island is a couple of hours sailing off the northwestern coast of South Korea (ferries leave from Incheon). It is notable for its beaches and hiking routes. Despite the distance from the mainland, Dokchok has an excellent selection of hotels, bungalows and restaurants. In general, there are many picturesque islands scattered around South Korea; this is a popular weekend getaway for residents of Seoul.

Jinhae-gu

This city is most popular during the spring cherry blossom season, which lasts approximately 10 days. The best place to observe this phenomenon in Jinhaegu is Gyeonghwa Station, where the sakura park stretches for about 1.5 kilometers. The blooming festival features performances, exhibitions and parades; this event attracts more than two million guests annually.

Gyeongju

Gyeongju is located on the east coast of South Korea. This is one of the best cities to get an idea of the traditional architecture of the East. During the era of the Silla dynasty (57 BC - 935), the entire political, cultural and scientific elite of the state lived in this city. Gyeongju is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's attractions include Bulguksa Temple, royal tombs, and the Gyeongju National Museum, which contains more than 16,000 artifacts.

Boseong

Boseong is a small but picturesque county that is considered the tea capital of South Korea. Here you can see traditional tea farms where local women collect tea leaves. The green tea grown here has a 1,600-year history and is renowned for its quality. The Boseong tea fields are surrounded by an impressive mountainous landscape with cedar forests.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok is a city within a city: a 600-year-old village from the Joseon Dynasty located within Seoul. It's worth going here to see the narrow streets with traditional one-story houses and pagoda-like roofs. Now few people live here: the houses are occupied by restaurants, teahouses, cultural centers and small hotels - an ideal setting to feel the atmosphere of historical Korea.

Busan

Busan is popular among tourists for its stunning beaches and historical buildings with a metropolitan atmosphere. It is the second largest city in South Korea and is located in the southeast of the country. Haeundae Beach is loved by both locals and tourists, although it can sometimes get crowded. There are also quieter beaches - Songdo or Tadepo.

Yeongam Gurim Village

Known for its historical buildings and pottery, Yeonam Village is located near Wolcheolsan National Park. This park is one of the smallest and least known in the country; it is very beautiful, but quiet and there are almost no crowds of tourists. We recommend visiting both the park and the village.

South Korea is a rapidly developing country in East Asia. Skyscrapers of business centers coexist with palaces and temples. The high level of the economy allows tourists to receive all kinds of benefits of civilization, and the natural resources will delight them with the brightness of colors and picturesque landscapes.

Ancient history has left many historical monuments in Korea, and modernity is actively adding its own interesting objects. The grandiose buildings of the Olympic Park, entertainment complexes and a 250-meter television tower are of great interest to tourists. Shopping centers and colorful markets will diversify your visit.

The long coastline of the peninsula offers a choice of beach holidays, both on it and on many neighboring islands. The country's thermal springs are also very popular. Korean traditional cuisine is popular all over the world and every guest is given the opportunity to taste it locally. The best time to visit the country is spring, the time of flowering.

The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see in South Korea?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photographs and brief descriptions.

1. Gyeongbokgung

The palace complex in Seoul is an open-air museum. Built in the 14th century for the ruling royal family of the Joseon Dynasty. Stores many valuable exhibits, including those from the list of national treasures. It is interesting for its bizarre architecture and landscape design of its park.

2. Rainbow Fountain Bridge

The world's longest fountain bridge is located on the Han River. Along its edges there are fountains, forming water arches between the building and the river. The spectacle is spectacular both day and night. At night, the water jets are illuminated and take on all the colors of the rainbow.

3. Myeongdong Street

The central shopping street of the capital of South Korea. Large multi-brand stores and boutiques of famous international brands are located along its entire length. The best place for shopping. Small shops adjacent to shopping giants will give you the opportunity to choose souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local flavor.

4. Republic of Korea War Memorial

A whole complex of buildings dedicated to the military history of the country. Includes a museum building and an equipped area around it. Inside there are 6 thematic rooms dedicated to various aspects of the country's military past. Around the building you can see military equipment, memorials, sculptures, and a park.

5. N Seoul Tower

Located on Namsam Mountain, in the center of Seoul. The tallest building in the city. The symbol of modern Seoul and its number one attraction. It is an entertainment complex that has several observation decks, restaurants, souvenir shops, an observatory, a teddy bear museum and even a Wishing Pond.

6. Changdeokgung Palace

One of the Five Grand Palaces of Seoul - Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. For four centuries the palace was the residence of the royal family. It is a wonderful architectural and park complex. Huwon Palace's Secret Garden is a particularly popular attraction.

7. Hwaseong Fortress

The majestic building on the top of the hill is a unique example of defensive architecture. The fortress was built at the end of the 18th century, was subject to destruction, and was restored. Currently it is a UNESCO protected site. It is a complex of towers, gates and extended walls (their total length is 6 km).

8. Deoksugung Palace Complex

One of the palace complexes of Seoul. At one time it was the official residence of the ruling dynasty. The palace and other buildings in Deoksugung are surrounded by a beautiful garden. Inside there are two large museums - the Imperial and the Arts.

9. Jongmyo Shrine

Historical monument in Seoul. A place where funeral rituals were performed for representatives of royal families. The oldest sanctuary of its kind, the longest building in Asia. Several generations of Korean rulers and queens are buried here.

10. Temple of Pomos

An ancient Buddhist temple, one of the largest in Korea. Located on Mount Comojon, near the town of Pomos. Some objects of the complex have a history of more than a thousand years. Covering an area of 8 km², there are 160 buildings in the traditional architectural style of the Joseon Dynasty.

11. Bulguksa Buddhist Monastery

The most famous and ancient Buddhist temple complex in Korea, protected by UNESCO. The complex contains seven objects included in the list of National Treasures. These include pagodas, bridges, statues. There is a beautiful park around.

12. Cheomseongdae Observatory

One of the country's national treasures. It is the oldest scientific building in the world. Built in the 7th century to observe the stars. The height of the stone tower is just under 10 meters. Located in Gyeongju City.

13. Saraksan National Park

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It contains rocks, waterfalls, hot thermal springs, and Buddhist temples. Large in area, divided into three parts. Many organized hiking routes (trails). There are places to stay overnight, hotels and catering outlets.

14. Bukhansan National Park

A natural oasis within the city, a favorite vacation spot for locals and tourists. It is a mountainous landscape covered with forest. It is home to many birds and rare plants. The views are picturesque. There are also many Buddhist temples in the park.

15. Demilitarized Zone (Korea)

A special protected area is the border between South and North Korea. It is a durable concrete wall, reinforced with additional protection. A special area has been equipped for tourists, which allows them to personally explore the fortification and even look through binoculars at the “northern neighbor”.

16. Olympic Park (Seoul)

A complex of sports facilities located in the park. It was built for the 1988 Olympics. Museums, a sculpture park, a musical fountain, an ancient fortress and an artificial lake are located on a large green area. A place for active sports and recreation.

17. Jeju Island

The largest island of South Korea is a separate province. It is of volcanic origin and has a unique landscape and nature. It has a unique microclimate - this is the southernmost part of the country, there are excellent beaches. An attractive object for tourists, very popular with newlyweds.

18. Chagalchi Fish Market

One of the largest fish markets not only in Korea, but throughout Asia. Located in Busan city. Almost a hundred years of history. A modern multi-storey building, part of the area of which is given to traders, part to restaurants and offices. Many shops are still located on the street, and allow you to feel the specifics of the fish market of past times.

19. Cheonggyecheon

A walking area in the center of Seoul, located along the banks of a stream. The water artery has always been here, but was in poor condition. After renovation, Cheonggyecheon turned into a long, cozy park in the very heart of the capital. Ten kilometers of the embankment are decorated with decorative elements, landscape “oases”, and fountains. The bed of the stream looks very impressive at night, as the water cascades are illuminated.

20. Everland Amusement Park

Located in the suburbs of Seoul, it is the largest in Korea. It is a large modern entertainment complex, including attractions, a zoo, and a water park. Each zone has unique characteristics and attracts a huge number of tourists. During the season, a grand flower festival is held here.

North Korea is located in East Asia. The date of formation of the state is considered to be September 9, 1948, after the Republic of Korea was proclaimed. The head of the country is Chairman Kim Jong-un, who supports the ideological direction of Juche, which means “reliance on one’s own strength.”

North Korea is considered one of the most closed countries in the entire world. A regime of isolationism has been introduced in the state. Therefore, international tourism is extremely poorly developed. For tourists, free entry into the state is extremely limited. Tourist transportation is handled by Air Koryo, which provides air transfers in the direction Vladivostok-Pyongyang.

Since 2012, the flow of vacationers has doubled compared to 2000. But tourists need to be prepared for the fact that they won’t be able to see the country on their own. First of all, North Korea is interesting to tourists for its “neo-Stalinist” environment and beautiful natural attractions. There are balneological, beach and ski resorts.

It is the most attractive natural attraction in North Korea. It is located in the Hamgyong Pukdo area. The height of the mountain reaches 894 meters. The name means "mountain of seven treasures." Chilbosan is part of a mountain range and is divided into three ridges. Visiting the mountain is open to everyone. At the foot of the ridge and the coastal part, a huge amount of infrastructure for tourists has been built.

The construction of the bridge was completed in 1216. It is located in Kaesong. The bridge is made of stone and passes over the ten-meter long beautiful Roge Stream, which flows in the Seongjuk quarter. Not far from the bridge there are two stone turtles that form a pavilion and are the guardians of the manuscripts of the Li Dynasty.

There is a legend that Confucius Chong Mong-ju was killed on the bridge, as a result of which the area near the bridge was overgrown with bamboo, as a symbol of the people’s devotion to the ruler.

Pakyeon Waterfall

This attraction is located near the city of Kaesong in the settlement of Pakyeon. The height of the waterfall reaches 37 meters. In the middle of the pond there is a large stone that can accommodate several people at once.

Near the waterfall there is a spacious area with a gazebo for admiring the beautiful scenery. Locals call this attraction “the white rainbow” and recommend visiting it during the rainy season. The area around the waterfall is lined with flowering trees and magnolia, which create a view of unsurpassed beauty all year round.

This tower is the largest building in the country. The hotel is located in Pyongyang and means " Willow Capital" The tower can easily claim seventh place among tall buildings in the world. The project was developed during the Cold War. 1987 marks the start of construction, which continues to this day. The height of the tower reaches 330 meters, on which there are 105 floors. The area near the hotel is equipped with a park area, flowering gardens are planted and there are several pavilions.

The massif is located in the southeast of the country among the Taebaek mountain range. The main point of the massif is Mount Kumgangsan, which reaches a height of 1638 meters. This mountain is one of the best and most enchanting places in North Korea due to its exceptional climate. On the Kumgang massif there is an entire tourist town that attracts tourists with its unique topography and Buddhist monasteries. Among the rocks there are a huge number of lakes into which small waterfalls flow.

In some sources, Mehyang is referred to as Myohansan. The mountain range is one of the main natural beauties of this corner of the country. It consists of several small ranges, the main points of which are Mount Piro, Pirabong and Nannimsan. Among them is the Yongpan mountain plain, which is a very fertile area. Dense forests and juniper grow on the slopes of the mountain range. This place belongs to the historical places of the DPRK and is very popular among tourists.

Mount Paektusan reaches a height of 2744 meters. In the local language it means "white-headed mountain". China and North Korea jointly created a biosphere reserve around the volcano. This place is famous for the Heavenly Lake, which is located in the very crater of the volcano.

The Singari River originates from this reservoir, which flows down the mountainside to the foot of the volcano. For local residents, the mountain is a sacred place. There are many legends about the volcano; its name is mentioned in the state anthem.

This 170-meter pillar is located near the Taedong River in the capital of North Korea. The composition is presented in the form of a tower with a stone and a flaming torch on the top of the mountain; the front side is decorated with relief magnolia flowers in the amount of 70 buds.

The opening of the monument took place in 1982 in honor of the 70th anniversary of Kim Il Sung. White granite was used as the main material for construction. Near the obelisk there are gazebos, a park, and an ensemble of fountains of various sizes is equipped on the river.

Until 2012, the palace bore the name of the famous rulers of North Korea Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il, but was renamed in honor of the 70th anniversary of Kim Jong Il. The monumental complex consists of a mausoleum and a memorial cemetery. The palace is located in the capital. For tourists, entry to the complex is possible only as part of an excursion group under the supervision of a guide. All visitors must comply with the dress code.

This burial complex dates back to the 14th century and was built on the burial site of Konmin. In 1352-1374 he was the ruler of Goryeo. The complex is included in the list of National Treasures of North Korea and UNESCO. The monument is located near the city of Kaesong. The two crypts in which Noguk and Gongmin are buried are located on top of a mound.

The base itself consists of granite blocks, which are decorated with carvings. There are stone statues of animals around the crypts. A long path leads to the funeral complex, near which there are three-meter sculptures of soldiers and rulers.

The construction of the building was completed in 1972 on Mount Mansu. The exhibition is presented with materials that tell about the main events of the revolutionary activities of rulers of different times. The facade of the museum is decorated with granite mosaics that depict Mount Paektu. There is a statue of Kim Il Sung near the museum.

This Maidan occupies the largest space in all of Pyongyang. The square was built entirely of granite in 1954. The construction plan was created during the Patriotic War of Liberation. The square hosts the largest rallies, parades and political events. From the square you can see the Juche Idea Monument located on the other side of the Taedong River.

This mountain is located in the center of the capital of North Korea. In local language it means "Peony Peak". On one of the slopes of the mountain there is a monument to Russian fighters called “Hebanthab”. At the top of the mountain there is the Eulmildae gazebo, which offers a beautiful view of the TV tower and the triumphal arch. At the foot of the mountain, residents often celebrate traditional events that take place in the city and have picnics. There are gazebos for relaxation throughout the area.

The village of Mangyongdae is located 12 kilometers from Pyongyang. This place is famous because it was here that Kim Il Sung was born and lived for his first eight years. There is a museum in the house where the famous Korean ruler lived.

The village itself is a place of pilgrimage. At the highest point in the village there is an observation platform with an gazebo, from which you can see all the beauties of Pyongyang by day and by night. In 1982, a cultural park was built in the village.

The museum was founded in 1945 in the capital of North Korea. The exhibition is located in nineteen halls. There are ancient relics, materials of primitive society and other archaeological finds here. In one of the pavilions there are models of historical monuments of Korea. A separate exhibition of tools from the Paleolithic and Bronze Ages has been created.

The exhibition is displayed in a museum building built in a holy place on Mount Myohyangsan. Gifts from foreign delegations to the rulers of North Korea are kept in the museum's chambers. Mention of the beginning of the museum's work dates back to 1978. The exhibition complex has about 150 rooms, in which about 220,000 copies gifts.

This is a monument that was built as a pride of the Korean resistance of 1925-1945 against the Japanese invaders. The complex was located near Mount Moranbong in 1982, the opening was in honor of the 70th anniversary of Kim Il Sung.

The structure consists of 25500 blocks which are made of white granite. This is not a random number; the number of blocks corresponds to the number of days that Kim Il Sung lived.

The zoo was opened in 1959. The complex was built by order of Kim Il Sung. The zoo is located near Daesongsan Mountain in Pyongyang. This is a natural complex in which different species of animals live and rare trees and plants grow.