Travel Guide to Samjiyon Revolutionary Museum

Introduction

The Samjiyon Revolutionary Museum is a significant cultural and historical institution located in Samjiyon, a county in the Ryanggang Province of North Korea. This museum is dedicated to the revolutionary history of the country, focusing on the anti-Japanese armed struggle and the activities of Kim Il-sung, the country's first leader.

Reaching Samjiyon Revolutionary Museum

Getting to Samjiyon and the Revolutionary Museum can be challenging due to the remote location and travel restrictions commonly associated with North Korea. Here are the steps and important considerations:

1. Travel Authorization: Make sure you have all necessary permissions to travel within North Korea. This typically involves applying for a visa through a recognized travel agency specializing in North Korean travel.
2. Travel to Pyongyang: Most international travelers will enter North Korea through the capital, Pyongyang. The main gateway is Pyongyang Sunan International Airport, which accommodates flights from a limited number of cities.
3. Domestic Transit: From Pyongyang, you will most likely need to arrange a chartered flight to Samjiyon Airport. Due to the country's restrictions, all travel plans must be made through an approved tour operator and accompanied by official guides.
4. Reaching the Museum: Once in Samjiyon, travel to the Samjiyon Revolutionary Museum will be coordinated by your tour guides. The museum is one of the key highlights of the area and is typically included in the tour plans.

Key Tips

• Accommodation: Lodging options in Samjiyon are limited. Your tour company will arrange your stay, often at a state-approved hotel.
• Local Currency: The North Korean Won is the local currency, but transactions for tourists are usually conducted in Euros, U.S. dollars, or Chinese Renminbi.
• Photography Restrictions: There are strict rules about what you can photograph. Always ask for permission from your guide before taking pictures.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrating respect for North Korean culture and the country's leadership is mandatory while visiting. This includes behavior at the museum which holds a significant place in North Korea's revolutionary history.

Conclusion

Visiting the Samjiyon Revolutionary Museum provides a unique window into North Korea's portrayal of its history and revolution. Due to the controlled nature of tourism in North Korea, it is critical to work through an approved agency and abide by local laws and customs throughout your trip.