This airport, also called Sunan International Airport, serves as the main gateway for travel by planeers to the capital. It is a small, modern airport with duty-free shops, a java shop, and areas for immigration and customs.
Air Koryo (JS), the national airline, operates flights mostly from Beijing (PEK) and sometimes from Vladivostok (VVO) or Shenyang (SHE). Air China (CA) also functions flights from Beijing (PEK) to Pyongyang (FNJ).
Flight availability varies seasonally, with more options during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).
Prices for the Beijing-Pyongyang leg are generally stable but fluctuate based on demand and tour operator packages.
Reserve these flights well in advance through your tour operator.
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Train travel from Beijing to Pyongyang offers an alternative to flying, presenting a different perspective on the journey. The weekly international train service operates between Beijing and Pyongyang, with a journey time of approximately 24 hours.
The train calls at Dandong for Chinese passport control and customs, and after that at Sinuiju for DPRK customs and immigration. The train offers sleeper berths, guaranteeing a comfortable journey despite its length.
No long-distance international bus services are available for tourists to North Korea. All land entry for tourists occurs via the train from China. Self-driving is strictly forbidden for tourists.
Road circumstances within North Korea vary. Highways in and around Pyongyang are generally well-maintained. Outside of Pyongyang, specifically on routes to day trip destinations, road quality can decline. Traffic flow is light compared to major global cities.
No regular ferry services or cruise ports are available for tourist entry into Pyongyang. Even though the DPRK has port cities (like Nampo), they are not typically open for international tourist arrivals by sea to Pyongyang.
River transportation on the Taedong River is not available for international tourist arrivals. While a regional boats operate, they do not serve as entry points for foreign visitors.
Coastal areas are not designated for international tourist entry to Pyongyang.
Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable due to no tourist sea entry.
Connections to land transportation from sea/river entrances are not relevant for tourists.
Exit taxes are typically included in the price of your airfare or train ticket, or in your overall tour package cost. You will not usually face separate, additional exit fees at the time of departure.
Arrive well in advance of your scheduled departure. Your guides will escort you through these processes, guaranteeing a smooth exit.
Has limited duty-free shops and a bistro for departing travelers.
Offers rudimentary waiting spots for train departures.
Do not expect comprehensive shopping or dining options located in bigger international transportation centers.
Your tour operator manages all logistics, making sure of a smooth and guided the process of leaving. Follow their instructions closely.
