19-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in North Korea
Embarking on a 19-day journey through North Korea offers a rare glimpse into a unique culture, tailored specifically for families seeking a blend of history and leisure. This itinerary prioritizes a relaxed pace, ensuring that children can enjoy the vibrant parks and interactive museums while adults appreciate the deep historical context of the Korean Peninsula.
From the grand monuments of Pyongyang to the pristine beaches of Wonsan and the ancient streets of Kaesong, every stop is planned with comfort in mind. Utilizing private coach transport for intercity travel, this route minimizes stress and maximizes the experience of the 'Hermit Kingdom' in a safe, educational, and family-oriented environment.
Day 1: Pyongyang - Arrival and Grand First Impressions
Arrival at Sunan International Airport
Meet your local guides and begin your journey with a comfortable private transfer to the city center, taking in the wide boulevards of the capital.
Arch of Triumph
A grand introduction to Pyongyang, this arch is taller than its Parisian counterpart and provides an excellent, stroller-friendly photo opportunity.
Mansudae Fountain Park
Enjoy a relaxing walk among the dancing fountains and intricate stone sculptures, a favorite spot for local families to gather.
Welcome Dinner at Okryu Restaurant
Taste the famous Pyongyang Cold Noodles in a grand, historic setting overlooking the Taedong River.
Day 2: Pyongyang - Mansu Hill and Artistic Wonders
Mansu Hill Grand Monument
Visit the iconic bronze statues of the country's leaders. It is a respectful and essential stop for understanding the local culture.
Chollima Statue
Observe the legendary winged horse statue, symbolizing the nation's rapid development and spirit.
Mansudae Art Studio
Explore the workshops where the nation's finest art is created, including beautiful ceramics and embroidery that fascinate children.
Pyongyang Schoolchildren's Palace
Watch a spectacular performance by talented local youth, featuring traditional music, dance, and acrobatics.
Day 3: Pyongyang - Deep Under and High Above
Pyongyang Metro Ride
Descend into one of the world's deepest metros, featuring ornate chandeliers and murals. Kids love the long escalator rides.
Juche Tower
Take the elevator to the top for a panoramic 360-degree view of the entire capital city.
Party Foundation Monument
Marvel at the massive hammer, sickle, and calligraphy brush monuments, representing the workers, peasants, and intellectuals.
Taedong River Cruise
End the day with a gentle boat ride along the river as the city lights begin to glow.
Day 4: Pyongyang - Science and Recreation
Sci-Tech Complex
This atom-shaped building is highly interactive and features a large indoor play area and virtual reality simulations for kids.
Lunch at a Pizza Restaurant
Visit one of the few Italian-style eateries in Pyongyang for a kid-friendly meal that feels like home.
Munsu Water Park
A massive indoor/outdoor water park with slides and pools; the perfect place for children to burn off energy.
Golden Lane Bowling Alley
Enjoy a casual evening of bowling alongside local residents in this popular entertainment hub.
Day 5: Pyongyang to Mt. Myohyang - Nature's Retreat
Scenic Drive to Mt. Myohyang
A 2-hour comfortable drive north through the countryside to the 'Mountain of Mysterious Fragrance.'
International Friendship Exhibition
Explore the massive subterranean halls housing thousands of gifts given to the leaders from around the world.
Pohyon Temple
Visit this serene Buddhist temple complex, featuring ancient pagodas and beautiful gardens perfect for a quiet stroll.
Nature Walk to Manpok Valley
A gentle, stroller-accessible path that follows a stream with small waterfalls and lush greenery.
Day 6: Mt. Myohyang - Fresh Air and Hiking
Sangwon Hermitage Hike
A slightly more active morning hike for those with older children, offering breathtaking views of the mountain peaks.
Riverside Picnic
Enjoy a packed lunch by the crystal-clear waters of the Myohyang streams.
Ryongmun Cavern
Explore these massive limestone caves with fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations illuminated for visitors.
Dine at Hyangsan Hotel
Experience luxury dining at one of the country's most architecturally unique hotels.
Day 7: Mt. Myohyang to Pyongsong - The Educational Hub
Drive to Pyongsong
Travel south to the city of Pyongsong, known as the nation's center for science and education.
Paeksong Revolutionary Site
Visit the hidden forest location where Kim Il Sung University was moved during the war, featuring preserved classrooms.
Pyongsong Primary School
Interact with local students and observe an English or music class, a heartwarming experience for traveling families.
DPRK Food Factory Visit
See how local snacks and drinks are made, often including a tasting session of Korean sweets.
Day 8: Pyongsong to Kaesong - Traveling to the Border
Drive to Kaesong
A 3-hour journey down the Reunification Highway toward the ancient capital of the Koryo Dynasty.
Traditional Pansanggi Lunch
Dine on numerous small bronze bowls of various local delicacies, a royal tradition in Kaesong.
Koryo Museum
Walk through this UNESCO World Heritage site, which served as a Confucian university centuries ago.
Stamp Shop and Souvenirs
Browse a unique collection of North Korean stamps and hand-painted posters nearby.
Day 9: Kaesong - The DMZ and History
Panmunjom (The DMZ)
Visit the border with South Korea. It is a somber but highly educational experience for older children and adults.
Armistice Signing Hall
See the original building and furniture where the 1953 agreement was signed.
Tomb of King Kongmin
Explore the twin-mound tombs of a 14th-century king and his queen, featuring impressive stone carvings.
Janam Hill
Walk up for a view over the preserved old city of Kaesong, showing the contrast between traditional and modern architecture.
Day 10: Kaesong to Sariwon - Folk Customs
Concrete Wall Observation Post
View the military fortifications across the landscape from a high vantage point.
Drive to Sariwon
A short trip to the provincial capital of North Hwanghae.
Sariwon Folk Street
Walk through a reconstructed traditional street, try local Makkoli (rice wine), and see traditional architectural models.
Mt. Kyongnam Pavilion
A short walk up the hill for a bird's-eye view of the city and the surrounding agricultural plains.
Day 11: Sariwon to Wonsan - Crossing to the East Coast
Long Drive to Wonsan
A cross-country transit (approx. 4-5 hours) through the central mountains to the port city of Wonsan.
Seafood Lunch at the Pier
Enjoy freshly caught seafood right on the Wonsan waterfront.
Songdowon Children’s Camp
Visit this famous summer camp with a private beach, aquarium, and birdhouse, designed specifically for kids.
Wonsan Square and Pier Walk
Join locals fishing on the pier and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
Day 12: Wonsan - Agriculture and Local Life
Chonsam Cooperative Farm
Visit a working farm, see the local kindergarten, and learn about the agricultural lifestyle in the DPRK.
Wonsan Agricultural University
Explore the botanical gardens and green houses of this historic educational institution.
Ulim Waterfalls
Discovered only recently, these falls are located in a stunning mountain gorge with excellent walkways.
Songdowon Beach Relaxation
Let the kids play in the sand at one of the country's most popular beaches.
Day 13: Wonsan to Masikryong - Luxury in the Mountains
Drive to Masikryong
A short 45-minute drive into the mountains to the country's premier ski resort.
Cable Car Ride
Take the cable car to the top of Taehwa Peak for stunning views of the valley below.
Resort Amenities
Enjoy the indoor swimming pool, billiards, and play areas at the Masikryong Hotel.
Forest Walk
Take a guided walk through the surrounding pine forests, which are beautiful in any season.
Day 14: Masikryong to Mt. Kumgang - The Diamond Mountains
Drive to Mt. Kumgang
A scenic 3-hour drive further south along the coast to the most famous mountain range in Korea.
Lake Sijung
A stop at this lagoon known for its medicinal mud; a great spot for photos and a quick leg stretch.
Samil Lagoon
Walk around the 'Lagoon of Three Days,' known for its calm waters and rocky islets.
Kumgangsan Onsen
Relax your muscles in the natural hot springs, with separate areas for families to enjoy.
Day 15: Mt. Kumgang - Exploring the Peaks
Kuryong Falls Hike
A well-maintained path leads to these spectacular waterfalls. Most of the path is manageable for active families.
Lunch at Kumgangsan Hotel
A hearty meal featuring local mountain herbs and vegetables.
Sea Kumgang
Visit the coastal area where the granite pillars of the mountains meet the ocean waves.
Acrobatic Performance
Watch a special regional circus or acrobatic show if available during the tourist season.
Day 16: Mt. Kumgang to Wonsan - Coastal Return
Slow Drive to Wonsan
Enjoy the coastal scenery as you head back toward the main hub of the east coast.
Wonsan Old Railway Station Museum
See the historical steam engines and learn about the city's role in the development of the region.
Jangdok Island Lighthouse
Walk across the breakwater to the lighthouse for a view of the Wonsan shipping harbor.
Free Time at the Hotel
A relaxed afternoon to enjoy the hotel facilities and prepare for the return to the capital.
Day 17: Wonsan to Pyongyang - Return to the Heart
Trans-Korea Drive
Head back to Pyongyang (approx. 4 hours) with a stop at a rest area for local snacks.
Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum
An enormous museum with outdoor displays of planes and tanks that children find very engaging.
USS Pueblo
Tour the captured American spy ship, docked on the Pothong River.
Pyongyang Circus
Experience the world-famous Pyongyang Circus, featuring incredible feats of strength and agility.
Day 18: Pyongyang - Farewell to the Capital
Korean Art Gallery
View grand oil paintings and traditional ink works in Kim Il Sung Square.
Kwangbok Department Store
One of the few places where you can exchange for local currency and shop alongside Pyongyang residents.
Moranbong Park Walk
The 'Garden of the Capital,' perfect for a final family walk among the historical pavilions and local picnickers.
Farewell Dinner
A special celebratory meal featuring Korean BBQ (Bulgogi) cooked right at your table.
Day 19: Pyongyang - Departure
Final Souvenir Shopping
A quick stop at the Korea Bookshop for books, DVDs, and posters.
Transfer to Airport/Train Station
Your guides will assist with all departure formalities for your trip back to Beijing.
Flight to Beijing
Board your flight, reflecting on a truly epic 19-day family journey.
Arrival in Beijing
Transit back to your home country or extend your stay in China.
Best Time to Visit North Korea
The best time to visit North Korea is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for the extensive walking and outdoor activities included in this itinerary. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms to Pyongyang, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage in the mountain regions like Mt. Myohyang and Mt. Kumgang. July and August are the rainy months and can be very humid, while winter is extremely cold, though it offers a unique look at the snow-covered landscapes.
Currency & Money
The official currency is the North Korean Won (KPW), but as a tourist, you will primarily use Euros, US Dollars, or Chinese Yuan. Cash is king in North Korea; credit cards and ATMs are not available for international travelers. It is essential to bring small denominations of crisp, clean bills. Tipping your guides and driver is a standard practice and is usually done at the end of the trip as a gesture of appreciation for their 24/7 assistance.
Getting Around North Korea
All travel within North Korea for tourists is conducted via pre-arranged private transport. For a 19-day family itinerary, you will typically be provided with a modern, air-conditioned car, van, or minibus depending on your family size. There are no options for independent car rentals or public transport use outside of the specific metro experience in Pyongyang. Intercity roads can be bumpy, so the higher-end private coaches are recommended for maximum comfort. Your guides and driver will accompany you from the moment you arrive until the moment you depart.
