With nearly 80% of its land covered by mountains, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) offers some of the most captivating mountain tourism in East Asia. From dramatic landscapes to pristine waterfalls, the country’s natural beauty remains largely untouched and offers a rare experience for adventurous travelers.
Mt Myohyang: Where Nature Meets Culture
Mt. Myohyang at Sunrise
Mt Myohyang, often referred to as the “Mountain of 84,000 Peaks,” is a favorite among visitors for its spectacular scenery. Towering cliffs, ancient pine forests, and dramatic rock formations create a unique blend of serenity and grandeur.
The mountain is also home to the International Friendship Exhibition House, a massive complex housing an extraordinary collection of diplomatic gifts presented to DPRK leaders – President Kim Il Sung, Chairman Kim Jong Il, and General Secretary Kim Jong Un – by heads of state, politicians, and dignitaries from across the globe. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination that offers both natural beauty and a glimpse into international relations through the lens of the DPRK.
Throughout the year, Mt Myohyang transforms with the seasons: lush and green in summer, ablaze with crimson leaves in autumn, and covered in a dreamlike blanket of snow in winter.
Mt Kumgang: The Diamond Mountain
The Piro Peak ravine of Mt Kumgang
Often called the “Diamond Mountain” for good reason, Mt Kumgang is renowned for its diverse terrain. Here, dramatic peaks meet crystal-clear lakes, lush tablelands, serene coastal stretches, and deep gorges. The water is so pure that locals say it’s almost too clean to touch.
Whether you’re hiking through pine-covered ridges or relaxing near a tranquil waterfall, Mt Kumgang provides a stunning backdrop for exploration and reflection. Its accessibility from the East Sea also makes it a unique spot where mountain and sea meet in perfect harmony.
A legend has it that fairies descended from heaven to Mt Kumgang to enjoy themselves.
Mt Chilbo: A Hidden Gem in the Northeast
Part of Mt Chilbo’s Inner Chilbo
Less known but equally mesmerizing, Mt Chilbo in the country’s northeast is a natural wonder. It’s famous for its oddly-shaped rock formations, thick forests, winding rivers, and steep cliffs that create dramatic contrasts. From tranquil ponds and cascading waterfalls to bizarrely shaped rock islets and natural spas, the mountain feels like a fantasy brought to life.
Mt Chilbo is also rich in folklore, biodiversity, and historical relics. Every trail seems to tell a story – of nature, culture, or ancient legends.
