Rason

North Korea, Asia

Rason, North Korea's hidden gem, is renowned for its stunning coastal views, vibrant markets, and unique blend of cultures. Positioned at the northeastern tip, it offers visitors breathtaking landscapes, including pristine beaches along the East Sea and impressive hiking trails in nearby mountain ranges. Explore the maritime museum, savor local seafood, and experience the mingling of North Korean and Chinese influences. Rason's low-key atmosphere provides a distinctive escape far from the capital, making it an intriguing destination for adventurous travelers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Knevichi

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Rason

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Rason's Market

Explore the vibrant local market for authentic experiences.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Tour the Rason Sea

Enjoy stunning views and fresh sea air on a boat.

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Rason's Parks

Relax in beautifully maintained parks and gardens.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Rason Revolutionary Museum

Learn about North Korea's history and Rason's role.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Local Cuisine

Savor unique dishes from North Korean culture.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike Mount Chon

Experience breathtaking views from the summit.

Booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Rason Friendship Bridge

See the unique bridge connecting North Korea and China.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Local Festival

Join in the festive celebrations with locals.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit Rason's Beaches

Relax or swim at the scenic beaches.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Local Art Scene

Discover unique local art and crafts.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

North Korean Won

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Korean

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kimchi

VE

Fermented vegetables, usually cabbage. (National dish)

Naengmyeon

Cold buckwheat noodles in broth.

Pyongyang Onban

Chicken and rice soup from Pyongyang.

Mandu

Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.

Kkotgejang

Crab marinated in spicy sauce.

Phrases to learn

English

Korean

Hello

Annyeong

(Ahn-yong)

Yes/No

Ne / Aniyo

(Neh / Ah-nee-yo)

Thank you

Gamsahamnida

(Gahm-sah-hahm-nee-dah)

Excuse me

Joesonghamnida

(Choh-sung-hahm-nee-dah)

How much?

Eolma yeyo?

(Ohl-ma yeh-yoh)