How To Reach Tomb Of King Kongmin

Travel to the Tomb of King Kongmin, Kaesong, North Korea

Located just 13 kilometers to the northwest of Kaesong city, the Tomb of King Kongmin, also known as the Hyonjongrung Royal Tomb, is a 14th-century mausoleum housing the remains of the 31st ruler of the Koryo dynasty and his wife. Here's how to visit this historical site:

Understanding Travel Restrictions

First and foremost, it is essential to be aware of the travel restrictions imposed on North Korea (DPRK). Most tourists can only visit through an organized tour with an approved tour operator who will arrange the invitation and necessary visas.

Arriving in North Korea

The most common entry points to North Korea are:

• By Air: Beijing is the primary international transit hub for flights to Pyongyang's Sunan International Airport (FNJ). There are several flights per week operated by Air Koryo, the DPRK's national airline, as well as Air China.
• By Train: There is a regular train service from Beijing to Pyongyang, which takes about 24 hours. Be mindful, however, that certain nationalities may not be allowed to enter North Korea by train and must use air travel.

Traveling to Kaesong

Once in Pyongyang, all travel arrangements to Kaesong will be coordinated by your tour operator. In general, you will likely be traveling as part of a guided tour, and transport will usually be provided by your tour organizers. A typical mode of transportation to Kaesong is by bus, which will take approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions and stops on the way.

Accessing the Tomb of King Kongmin

Access to the tomb will be part of a scheduled visit within your tour itinerary. Your guides will facilitate entry to the site. Note that photography may be restricted in certain areas, and you should be respectful of local customs and regulations during your visit.

Useful Tips:

• Ensure you have all your visas and paperwork in order well in advance of your trip.
• Always follow the instructions of your tour guides and respect local laws and customs.
• Certain types of casual or military-style clothing are often discouraged or not allowed.
• Currency inside North Korea will typically be the North Korean Won for locals, but tourists are usually required to use Euros, US Dollars, or Chinese Yuan.

Remember that visiting North Korea is a unique experience, and the Tomb of King Kongmin is just one of many significant historical sites offered in a land where tourism is highly controlled and regulated.