Things to Do in Sariwon
Sariwon, 조선민주주의인민공화국 - Complete Travel Guide
Sariwon, the capital of North Hwanghae Province in North Korea, is a historic city that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Korean culture and architecture. Located about 60 kilometers southwest of Pyongyang, this relatively small city is known for its well-preserved folk customs village and serves as an important agricultural center in the region. The city provides an authentic experience of Korean provincial life, away from the bustling capital.
Sariwon is particularly famous for its Folk Customs Street, which showcases traditional Korean architecture and cultural practices from different historical periods. The city also features several parks, monuments, and cultural sites that reflect both traditional Korean heritage and the country's modern political history. As with all destinations in North Korea, visits to Sariwon must be arranged through official tour operators and are typically included as part of organized itineraries that showcase the country's cultural and historical sites.
Top Things to Do in Sariwon
Explore Traditional Folk Customs Street
Walk through a recreated traditional Korean village featuring authentic architecture from different dynasties. The street showcases traditional houses, workshops, and cultural demonstrations that provide insight into historical Korean life and customs.
Booking Tip: This attraction is typically included in organized North Korea tours costing $1,500-3,000 for multi-day packages. Visit during spring or autumn for the best weather and photography conditions.
Visit Jongbang Falls
Experience one of the region's most scenic natural attractions, featuring a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forest. The falls are particularly impressive during the rainy season and offer excellent opportunities for nature photography.
Booking Tip: Access requires inclusion in official tour packages through approved operators. Best visited May through October when weather permits easier access to the natural area.
Tour Local Agricultural Cooperatives
Gain insight into North Korea's agricultural system by visiting working farms and cooperatives in the region. These visits provide a unique perspective on rural life and the country's farming practices and community organization.
Booking Tip: Must be arranged through official tour operators as part of comprehensive packages. Spring and harvest seasons offer the most interesting agricultural activities to observe.
Explore Revolutionary History Sites
Visit monuments and sites related to North Korea's revolutionary history and the Korean War. These locations provide context for understanding the country's political development and historical narrative.
Booking Tip: Included in standard tour packages with no additional fees. Guided commentary is mandatory and provides official historical perspectives on the sites visited.
Experience Traditional Korean Performance Arts
Attend cultural performances featuring traditional Korean music, dance, and theatrical presentations. These shows often take place in local cultural centers and showcase both classical and revolutionary artistic traditions.
Booking Tip: Performance schedules vary and must be confirmed with tour operators in advance. Evening performances are common and may require extending your stay in the city.
Getting There
Sariwon is accessible only through organized tours departing from Pyongyang, as independent travel is not permitted in North Korea. The journey from Pyongyang takes approximately 1.5 hours by tour bus or private vehicle along well-maintained highways. Most visitors arrive as part of multi-day North Korea tour packages that include transportation, accommodation, and guided activities. International travelers must first arrive in North Korea through Beijing or other approved entry points before joining domestic tours that include Sariwon.
Getting Around
All movement within Sariwon must be accompanied by official guides and is typically done via tour bus or designated vehicles. Walking is permitted only in designated areas and tourist sites under guide supervision. The city is relatively compact, and most tourist attractions are within a small area that can be covered on foot during organized walking portions of tours. Private transportation or independent exploration is not allowed, and all activities follow predetermined itineraries set by tour operators and local authorities.
Where to Stay
Sariwon Folk Hotel
Local Guesthouses
Pyongyang Day Trip Base
Provincial Government Lodging
Tourist Rest Houses
Cooperative Farm Accommodation
Food & Dining
Dining in Sariwon consists primarily of meals provided as part of organized tour packages, featuring traditional Korean cuisine with local specialties. Restaurants serve dishes such as naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles), kimchi, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables grown in the region's fertile agricultural areas. Meals are typically communal affairs that provide opportunities to experience authentic Korean flavors and dining customs. Independent restaurant visits are not permitted, but tour meals often showcase regional specialties and traditional cooking methods that reflect the area's agricultural heritage.
When to Visit
The ideal time to visit Sariwon is during late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the Folk Customs Street and natural attractions like Jongbang Falls. Summer can be hot and humid with occasional heavy rainfall, while winter temperatures can drop significantly below freezing. Spring also brings beautiful blossoms to the region, while autumn offers stunning foliage colors that enhance the scenic beauty of both cultural and natural sites.
Insider Tips
Bring a good camera as photography opportunities abound, but always ask permission before taking photos of people or sensitive locations
Pack comfortable walking shoes as many attractions involve walking on traditional stone paths and uneven surfaces
Learn basic Korean greetings and phrases as locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to communicate in their language