Kilju, North Korea is a small city located in the North Hamgyong province of North Korea. It is the home of the infamous Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Site, where the country has conducted all of its nuclear tests. Despite the city’s notoriety, it still has plenty to offer travelers who are interested in exploring the area. Here are 10 things to do in Kilju, North Korea.
1. Visit the Tower of the Juche Idea. The Tower of the Juche Idea is a monument located in the center of Kilju. It was built in 1982 to commemorate the 70th birthday of Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea. The tower stands at 170 meters tall and is made of granite and white marble. At the top of the tower is a 20-meter-tall bronze statue of Kim Il Sung.
2. Explore the Kilju Museum. The Kilju Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of the city and its people. It features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Korean War, traditional clothing, and items from the Juche era.
3. Visit the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Site. The Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Site is located in Kilju and is the site of all of North Korea’s nuclear tests. It is closed to the public, but visitors can get a glimpse of the area from the nearby observation tower.
4. Check out the local markets. Kilju is home to a number of markets, where visitors can buy fresh produce, traditional clothing, and souvenirs. The markets are a great place to mingle with locals and get a feel for the city.
5. Tour the Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery. The Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery is a cemetery located on the outskirts of Kilju. It is the final resting place of many of North Korea’s fallen heroes and a popular tourist attraction.
6. Visit the Kilju Grand Monument. The Kilju Grand Monument is a large monument located in the city center. It is dedicated to the victims of the Korean War and features a number of sculptures and statues.
7. Take a stroll through the Kilju Botanical Garden. The Kilju Botanical Garden is a large park located near the center of Kilju. It is home to a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a small lake.
8. Visit the Kilju Art Gallery. The Kilju Art Gallery is a small art gallery located in the city center. It features a variety of traditional and contemporary art from North Korea.
9. Check out the local temples. Kilju is home to a number of Buddhist and Confucian temples. Visitors can explore these temples and learn more about the city’s rich religious history.
10. Visit the Kim Il Sung Stadium. The Kim Il Sung Stadium is a large stadium located in the center of Kilju. It is home to a variety of sports teams and is a popular tourist attraction.
Kilju is a fascinating city with a lot to offer travelers. From historic monuments to traditional markets, there is something for everyone in this small North Korean city. Whether you’re looking for a unique cultural experience or just a chance to explore a new place, Kilju is an ideal destination.