>>1453603I happen to be a semi-expert on this subject:
Even though all trains are operated by the Korean State Railway, the experience you have on the train will differ greatly.
>international train between Pyongyang and Dandong/BeijingFeels like a Chinese train with lower speeds and with fewer Chinese/more Koreans.
>same train, but in the domestic carriages ending at SinuijuYou'll stay close to the windows in summer, as they'll be your only source of cool air for the ride, in winter, you'd better be dressed in multiple layers.
>any domestic train on other routesPrepare for a ride on pre-WWII tracks at pre-WWI speeds.
Enjoy hanging out the open doors in summer, as that will be your best source of cool air.
Power outages are nearly as frequent as stops, if they happen in a tunnel, you'll feel the eternal darkness of the country. Station stops give you the opportunity to buy from a small selection of goods from the ladies at the semi-official vending stalls scattered on the platforms. Some of the stuff is really dodgy though, and you don't want to waste any of the toilet paper you brought with you, fearing running out of it because you caught the runs.
People are very nice though, sharing food, drinks and smokes, as you're in for the ride together, no matter your nationality or social status.
