
Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Sunch’ŏn, P’yŏngnam, Korea, North
1. Mt. Myohyangsan Eco-Park
A stunning natural park with scenic hiking trails and the famous 'Bird Rock' formation, promoting eco-consciousness through guided tours.
- Eco-Friendly Guides: Trained guides educate visitors about local flora and fauna.
- Rehabilitation Programs: Programs for wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release back into the wild.
- Sustainable Facilities: Eco-friendly facilities using renewable energy sources and waste management systems.
2. Myohyangsa Temple Complex
A serene Buddhist temple complex nestled within Mt. Myohyangsan, showcasing centuries-old architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sustainable Restoration: Restoration efforts using traditional methods and materials to preserve cultural heritage.
- Eco-Harmonious Landscape: Temple complex harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings.
- Vegetarian Meals: Serving vegetarian meals to minimize environmental impact.
3. Yangdok Hot Springs
Natural hot springs nestled in a picturesque mountainous landscape offering relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Geothermal Energy Utilization: Harnessing geothermal energy for heating facilities.
- Environmental Monitoring: Regular monitoring and maintenance to protect the hot springs' ecosystem.
- Local Community Support: Employment opportunities for local community members.
4. Mt. Chilbo National Park
A breathtaking national park featuring pristine forests, rocky cliffs, and a variety of wildlife.
- Wildlife Conservation: Protection programs for endangered species such as the Amur leopard.
- Community-Based Tourism: Empowering local communities to lead sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Eco-Tour Guides: Knowledgeable guides offering eco-friendly tour options and promoting conservation.
5. Sunch’ŏn Turtle Conservation Farm
A sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of the endangered Sunch’on River Turtles.
- Turtle Breeding Programs: Breeding programs aimed at increasing turtle populations.
- Educational Workshops: Workshops educating visitors about turtle conservation efforts.
- Community Outreach: Engaging local communities in turtle conservation initiatives.
6. Sunch’ŏn Organic Farming Cooperative
A cooperative supporting sustainable farming practices and promoting organic produce.
- Chemical-Free Farming: Adherence to organic farming principles, avoiding chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
- Community Support: Support for small-scale farmers in the region.
- Farm Tours: Tours of organic farms to educate visitors about sustainable farming practices.
7. Mt. Paektu National Park
A UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, home to Mt. Paektu, an active volcano and the birthplace of the Korean people.
- Volcanic Ecosystem Protection: Protection programs for the unique volcanic ecosystem.
- Community Involvement: Involvement of local communities in park management and conservation efforts.
- Scientific Research: Ongoing scientific research on volcanic activity and the surrounding ecosystem.
8. Pohyon Temple
A beautifully preserved Buddhist temple with stunning mountain views and intricate carvings.
- Cultural Preservation: Preservation of the temple's historical and cultural significance.
- Sustainable Restoration: Restoration efforts using traditional methods and materials.
- Vegetarian Meals: Serving vegetarian meals to minimize environmental impact.
9. Samjiyon City Eco-Park
A picturesque city offering stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and eco-friendly accommodation options.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Accommodations using renewable energy sources and sustainable building materials.
- Sustainable Transportation: Promotion of eco-friendly transportation options, such as electric vehicles.
- Community Empowerment: Empowering local communities to lead sustainable development initiatives.
10. Ryongchon Waterfall
A breathtaking waterfall located in a lush, forested area, offering hiking trails and eco-friendly facilities.
- Waterfall Conservation: Conservation efforts to protect the waterfall's ecosystem.
- Sustainable Tourism Development: Development of tourism infrastructure with minimal environmental impact.
- Eco-Friendly Facilities: Facilities utilizing renewable energy sources and sustainable building materials.
11. Samjiyon Grandfathers' House
A unique architectural site featuring traditional Korean homes of the Samjiyon region.
- Cultural Preservation: Preservation of traditional Korean architecture.
- Sustainable Restoration: Restoration efforts using traditional methods and materials.
- Community Support: Employment opportunities for local community members.
12. Samjiyon Valley
A breathtaking valley featuring scenic landscapes, hiking trails, and eco-friendly facilities.
- Sustainable Tourism Development: Development of tourism infrastructure with minimal environmental impact.
- Eco-Friendly Facilities: Facilities utilizing renewable energy sources and sustainable building materials.
- Community Empowerment: Empowering local communities to lead sustainable development initiatives.
13. Chilbo Lake
A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and offering eco-friendly accommodation options.
- Lake Conservation: Conservation efforts to protect the lake's ecosystem.
- Sustainable Tourism Development: Development of tourism infrastructure with minimal environmental impact.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Accommodations using renewable energy sources and sustainable building materials.
14. Chilbo Coastal Wetlands
A coastal wetland area rich in biodiversity offering eco-friendly observation decks.
- Wetland Conservation: Conservation efforts to protect the wetlands' ecosystem.
- Sustainable Tourism Development: Development of tourism infrastructure with minimal environmental impact.
- Eco-Friendly Observation Decks: Observation decks utilizing renewable energy sources and sustainable building materials.
15. Paektusan Secret Camp Site
A historical site offering a glimpse into the secret camp of Kim Il-sung, showcasing his commitment to sustainable living.
- Historical Preservation: Preservation of the site's historical significance.
- Sustainable Living Practices: Promotion of sustainable living practices demonstrated by Kim Il-sung.
- Eco-Friendly Guides: Guided tours educating visitors about sustainable living practices.