Rason, North Korea: travel guide
Special economic zone in the far northeast beside Russia and China
Rason (Rajin-Sonbong) is North Korea's special economic zone at the northeastern tip of the country, bordering both Russia and China.
About Rason
Rason is a special economic zone at the north-eastern tip of the country, where the borders with Russia and China meet. Officially Rajin-Sonbong, it is a coastal area rather than a single town, and it is run with more commercial freedom than elsewhere.
The area is known for the Rajin Market, a deep-water port used by neighbouring countries and a handful of hotels, including a casino. Visitors who want to see how trade shapes the region will find it more open than the rest of the country.
Rason suits travellers curious about the border economy and the north-east coast. Late spring and early autumn are the most pleasant seasons, before the cold sets in.
- Country
- North Korea
- Currency
- KPW
- Time zone
- Asia/Pyongyang
Last updated
Top places to visit in Rason
Rajin Market
local market · 4.2 rating · about 1 h · check the fee at the gate
One of North Korea's largest and most open-access markets, reflecting the market-economy freedoms of the Rason Special Economic Zone. Traders sell Chinese imports, seafood, agricultural produce and consumer goods. A rare and fascinating…
Where to stay in Rason
- Rajin Emperor Hotel Zone about KPW 60 per night
The Emperor Hotel in Rajin is the primary tourist accommodation in Rason SEZ. It is a Chinese-invested hotel targeting Chinese and Russian visitors. The most accessible lodging for Rason tour groups.
Hotels
- Emperor Hotel 3-star · EUR 50 to EUR 80 per night
Where to eat
- Emperor Hotel Restaurant Korean, Chinese · about EUR 10 per person
Getting to Rason
Nearest airport: Vladivostok (VVO), about 198 km away in a straight line. The road or rail journey is longer.
Getting around
- Coach
- Taxi
- Walking