City Guides
North Korea shares its borders with China, Russia, and South Korea, creating a unique mix of borderlands that offer insights into the country’s interactions with its neighbors. Below is a list of key towns, cities, and villages along the border regions of North Korea that are important for travelers to know.
1. Dandong(China) – Dandong is the largest Chinese city near North Korea, situated on the Yalu River. It’s a major gateway for trade between China and North Korea. The city offers a direct view of the North Korean border, including the Friendship Bridge, which has historical significance. Dandong provides one of the most accessible points to observe the isolated country from the Chinese side.
2. Tumen (China) – Located on the Tumen River, which forms the border between China, North Korea, and Russia, Tumen is a small but significant town. It’s known for its proximity to North Korea and offers a chance to explore the dynamic border area, including the surrounding natural beauty.
3. Linjiang (China) – Linjiang, another city in Jilin Province, is located near the Tumen River. It offers views into the North Korean border region and is part of the cross-border trade and cultural exchanges between China and North Korea.
4.Changbai Village (China) – This village/town is located near Mount Changbai, known as Paektu Mountain in North Korea. It holds cultural and historical significance, with many North Koreans viewing it as a sacred site. The village offers a chance to explore the border area from a rural perspective.
5. Ji’an (China) – Ji’an, also in Jilin Province, is close to North Korea and is home to historical sites related to the Koguryo Dynasty. While it’s not directly on the border, its proximity to North Korea makes it an important location for understanding the region’s history and cultural ties. In proximity to Manpo.
6. Yanji (China) – Yanji is the capital of the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture and is home to a large ethnic Korean population. The city provides insight into the Korean culture and traditions, influenced by its proximity to North Korea.
7. Khasan (Russia) – Khasan is a town in Russia, located near the North Korean border. It is part of the broader cross-border trade network and provides a unique Russian perspective on the region. Khasan offers visitors the chance to explore the Russian side of the border and see the area’s interactions with North Korea.
8. Vladivostok (Russia) – Vladivostok is a major port city in Russia, located on the Pacific Ocean. While not directly on the North Korean border, it plays a significant role in the region’s economy and trade, particularly with North Korea. Vladivostok offers a broader view of Russia’s role in the region. The gateway for travel to Sakhalin, which also offers a lot of interest for Korea watchers.
9. Sokcho (South Korea) – Sokcho is a city in South Korea located near the North Korean border. It serves as a base for trips to the DMZ and provides a close look at the tensions between the two Koreas. The city offers a unique vantage point for exploring the division of the Korean Peninsula.
10. Cheorwon (South Korea) – Cheorwon is a town in South Korea located near the border with North Korea. It’s a key historical site, particularly for those interested in the Korean War. Visitors can explore the area’s historical significance and gain insight into the ongoing division between the two Koreas.
These towns and cities offer travelers an opportunity to better understand the dynamics of North Korea’s border regions. Whether you’re looking to explore the bustling trade hubs of China or the historical sites of South Korea, these locations provide a variety of perspectives on the isolated nation.
