Russia and North Korea Resumes Direct Train Service: New Report You Need to Know Before Planning Your Trip

Published on June 10, 2025

In a move that marks a significant milestone in international rail travel, Russia and North Korea have resumed direct train services, reinstating once-popular travel routes that had been suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After a four-year break, these routes between Pyongyang and Moscow, as well as Pyongyang and Khabarovsk, are once again open, offering a unique and long-awaited opportunity for adventurous travelers.

This development signals not only a new chapter in the tourism industry but also a revival of a distinct form of travel – the long-distance train journey. For many, these services were a rare and intriguing way to explore less-traveled areas of the world, offering passengers a chance to experience diverse landscapes and cultures. The routes are set to become even more appealing as they promise a remarkable voyage through some of the most scenic and remote corners of Russia and North Korea.

Whether you’re a rail travel enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply someone looking for a unique way to explore the East, these routes provide an opportunity for both tourism and cultural exchange. With the journey spanning thousands of kilometers and crossing through historic cities, the train ride from Pyongyang to Moscow holds the distinction of being the longest non-stop railway route in the world. This extraordinary travel option is already generating interest in the travel community, bringing a unique flair to the ever-growing realm of international train services.

Key Highlights of the Resumed Train Services

• Routes: The resumed services connect Pyongyang with Moscow and Khabarovsk. The Moscow route operates twice a month, while the Khabarovsk route is once a month.
• Duration: The Moscow journey takes about eight days, covering over 10,000 kilometers. The Khabarovsk route is a shorter trip, taking just over two days.
• Departure Dates: Trains will depart Pyongyang on the 3rd and 17th of each month for Moscow, and on the 19th for Khabarovsk. Return trips from Moscow are on the 12th and 26th, and from Khabarovsk on the 21st.
• Passenger Experience: The trains offer comfortable compartments, providing a quintessential rail travel experience. Travelers can enjoy scenic views, including stops at major Russian stations like Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, and Novosibirsk.

What Makes These Routes Special?

For seasoned travelers and rail enthusiasts, the Moscow-to-Pyongyang train is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a journey through history, culture, and geography. Spanning across some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world, this route showcases Russia’s vastness and the intricate beauty of North Korea.

The Longest Non-Stop Train Route

The Moscow-Pyongyang route is especially noteworthy for being the longest non-stop railway service globally. The total distance of more than 10,000 kilometers is an awe-inspiring distance to cover by rail. The journey provides passengers with a unique opportunity to witness the diverse landscapes, from the Siberian wilderness to the lush regions of Manchuria.

Key features of the route include:

• Major Stops: The train will pass through various Russian cities such as Khabarovsk, Ussuriysk, Chita, Omsk, and Yekaterinburg, all offering glimpses of Russian culture and heritage.
• Scenic Views: As the train makes its way through Russia’s Far East, passengers will be treated to vistas of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and vast stretches of open plains.
• Cultural Insights: Travelers will get a rare chance to see parts of Russia and North Korea that are largely inaccessible to the average tourist. This makes the journey a fascinating mix of cultural exploration and scenic beauty.

The Khabarovsk-Pyongyang Route: A Shorter Journey, but No Less Fascinating

While the Moscow route is a grand journey, the Khabarovsk-Pyongyang route offers a much shorter experience, but it still holds significant appeal. Covering just over 1,500 kilometers, this route offers a swift way to traverse the landscape between Russia and North Korea. Though shorter, it’s no less fascinating, providing an opportunity to see parts of Siberia and the Russian Far East.

The Revival of Unique International Train Travel

Before the pandemic, train travel between Russia and North Korea was a niche adventure, attracting curious travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. The COVID-19 pandemic suspended these services in February 2020, but with the world now returning to a semblance of normalcy, the resumption of these routes is a welcome return to normalcy for train enthusiasts and tourism experts alike.

The resumption of these rail services is part of a broader trend of revitalizing long-distance rail travel that’s gaining momentum globally. With the rise of eco-tourism and sustainable travel options, train travel is being hailed as a green alternative to air travel. The re-opening of these routes offers travelers the chance to travel slowly, connecting with landscapes and cultures in a way that air travel simply cannot replicate.

Moreover, these international rail services help foster cultural exchange and enhance mutual understanding between Russia and North Korea. They create an avenue for deeper interaction between two countries with limited direct interaction in other sectors. The tourism industry stands to benefit, with these trains providing unique tourism opportunities for those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences.

What Can Passengers Expect?

Traveling on these revived routes, passengers can expect a blend of comfort and novelty. The trains are equipped with compartment cars, offering a comfortable space for passengers to relax during the long journey. While these trains are not as luxurious as some other international train services, they offer a unique experience that many find part of their charm.

The itinerary includes scenic stops along the way, with passengers disembarking at some of Russia’s major cities to stretch their legs and enjoy the local culture. The trains will also offer the chance to experience North Korean hospitality, with local North Korean trains operating as part of the route. Passengers are encouraged to enjoy the authentic dining experiences available on board, offering insight into the local food culture of the countries they are traversing.

Why This Matters for the Tourism Industry

The re-establishment of direct train services between Russia and North Korea is a major development in the world of international tourism. It opens new possibilities for travelers interested in exploring the less-visited areas of the world and adds a unique offering to the growing list of international rail routes. Furthermore, it underscores the ongoing growth of train tourism, a sector that has gained significant momentum in recent years.

Benefits for the Tourism Sector:

• Increased Passenger Traffic: The revival of this route is likely to attract tourists from around the globe, adding to the increasing interest in train travel as a more sustainable, immersive way to explore new destinations.
• Boost to Local Economies: The tourism flow from these revived routes will positively impact local economies, particularly in cities and regions along the train routes.
• Enhanced Cultural Diplomacy: As cultural exchanges increase between Russia and North Korea, this type of travel fosters diplomacy and deeper understanding between the countries, benefiting both tourism and political relations.

Conclusion

The reopening of direct train services between Pyongyang and Moscow, as well as Pyongyang and Khabarovsk, is a major development for the tourism industry. These long-distance routes offer travelers a rare opportunity to experience Russia and North Korea in a way few others have. As rail travel continues to surge in popularity worldwide, this move represents the growing global appeal of immersive, slow travel that allows passengers to connect more deeply with the places they visit.

For anyone seeking a truly unique experience, these routes provide an unforgettable journey that crosses continents, cultures, and time zones, all while showcasing the immense beauty and diversity of the Russian Far East and North Korea. For train enthusiasts, tourists, and cultural explorers alike, the return of these routes is a welcome and exciting development.