How To Reach Haeju Fortress

Traveling to Haeju Fortress, Haeju, North Korea

Haeju Fortress, one of the historical sites in Haeju, North Korea, can be an intriguing destination for travelers interested in the country's history. Nevertheless, traveling to North Korea requires thorough preparation due to the strict regulations and the controlled nature of tourism. Below are the steps and considerations for reaching Haeju Fortress:

Step 1: Securing Travel Authorization

All travel to North Korea must be arranged via a recognized travel agency that has the authority to obtain the necessary permissions from the North Korean government. You must join a guided tour as independent travel is not allowed. Ensure you have a valid passport and obtain a North Korean visa through the agency.

Step 2: Entry Points

By Air: The most common entry point to North Korea is through the capital, Pyongyang. International flights to Pyongyang Sunan International Airport are limited, mostly originating from Beijing or Shenyang in China, and Vladivostok in Russia.

By Train/Road: There are train services and road connections from China (Dandong – Sinuiju) which can be organized by specialist tour operators. Remember that these options are subject to the political situation and may change.

Step 3: Traveling Within North Korea

Once in North Korea, all transportation will be arranged by your tour operator. This will likely involve a combination of bus and car travel as internal flights are infrequent and generally not used for tourist travel.

Step 4: Reaching Haeju

Haeju is situated in the South Hwanghae Province. Tour itineraries to Haeju are less common, so you may need to request a bespoke tour. The journey from Pyongyang to Haeju can take several hours by road.

Step 5: Visiting Haeju Fortress

Upon reaching Haeju, a local guide will take you to the Haeju Fortress. You will be briefed on the do's and don'ts while visiting the site, and you must adhere to the rules stipulated by your guides at all times.

Additional Tips and Information

• Ensure that you are up to date with the travel advice from your government before planning your trip, as travel restrictions can be imposed on short notice.
• Always follow the instructions given by your tour guides and do not venture out alone.
• Photography may be restricted in certain areas; always ask for permission before taking photos.
• Communication with locals may be limited, and your interactions will likely be supervised.
• Currency exchange should be done officially, and the North Korean Won is the legal tender for tourists.

Note: Travel to North Korea is subject to international relations and may be tightly controlled or even impossible at times. It is advised to keep abreast of the latest diplomatic developments when considering travel to this region.