Dandong Railway Border Port in Liaoning

Dandong Railway Border Port (丹东铁路口岸) is an important railway gateway connecting China and North Korea. Located in Dandong City (丹东市), Liaoning Province (辽宁省), this port is vital for cross-border trade and passenger transport between the two countries. The port is linked by the Yalu River Railway Bridge (鸭绿江铁路大桥), also known as the China-North Korea Friendship Bridge (中朝友谊桥), to the North Korean border town of Sinuiju (新义州). The Dandong Railway Port is one of the primary routes for land trade between China and North Korea, handling over 70% of the land trade between the two countries.

Key Statistics:

  • Location: Dandong City, Zhenxing District, Liaoning Province, China

  • Port Type: National Class I Port (国家一类口岸)

  • Opening Year: 1954 (railway cooperation agreement signed)

  • Annual Cargo Volume: Among the highest in China for ports to North Korea

  • Annual Passenger Traffic: Regular passenger train service with cross-border trains to North Korea

  • Key Infrastructure: Yalu River Railway Bridge (China-North Korea Friendship Bridge)

Historical Significance

Key Historical Events:

  • 1904: During the Russo-Japanese War, the railway from Andong (now Dandong) to Sinuiju was built, marking the early beginnings of the port.

  • 1954: The Sino-Korean Railway Agreement was signed, establishing direct passenger and freight train services between Beijing, Pyongyang, and Moscow, with Dandong Station (丹东站) becoming a crucial transit point.

  • 2025: Reopening of freight services following a pandemic hiatus, with daily passenger trains running from Dandong to Sinuiju.

Infrastructure and Facilities

Passenger Services:

  • Cross-Border Train: Daily passenger trains require a valid passport and visa for travel. Trains run regularly with departures to and from North Korea.

Freight Services:

  • Cargo: The port primarily handles the transport of goods such as grain, daily necessities, and other essential products, maintaining one of the highest freight volumes for ports to North Korea.

Railway Bridge:

  • Yalu River Railway Bridge: Built in 1943, this single-line bridge has been a critical transport link. It was bombed during the Korean War but continues to operate today.

Tourism and Cultural Attractions

Key Attractions:

  • National Border Scenic Area: Visitors can explore the historical exhibitions at Dandong Station, offering insights into the history of the railway and its importance in the China-North Korea relationship.

  • Broken Bridge (断桥): Located nearby, this bridge is a relic from the Korean War, with visible bullet marks. It stands as a symbol of the conflict.

  • Recommended Route: Visit Dandong Station, Broken Bridge, and the Hekou Scenic Area (河口景区), where visitors can enjoy a boat tour of the river and view both sides of the border.

Practical Information

Opening Hours:

  • Passenger Train Services: Daily round-trip services. Specific schedules can be checked on the Dandong Station official website.

Transportation:

  • By Bus: Dandong Station is about 1 km from the city center. It can be reached by bus routes 121 and H1 red line directly from the city.

  • By Taxi: Dandong Station is easily accessible via a 10-minute taxi ride from the city center.

Travel Tips:

  • Cross-Border Travel: Travelers must apply for a North Korean visa in advance.

  • Customs Declaration: Freight shipments must be declared with customs.

Additional Information

Dandong’s Strategic Importance:

Dandong is unique in Asia, being the only border city that combines a port, airport, high-speed rail, and seaport. The historical and operational significance of Dandong Railway Border Port reflects the evolving relationship between China and North Korea, showcasing both economic and political changes over time.