Since opening for tourism in April 2012 the Mount Kumgang Tourist Zone in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has risen in popularity with travelers.
Changes have been made in the east DPRK zone to entice tourists, including a new hotel with satellite television, internet access and mobile phone rentals.
The area is far from a tourist hub, particularly as the weather cools in late autumn but local merchants are optimistic.
Duty free store owner He Zhanrong told Reuters, 'It is estimated that about 2,000 tourists have visited our shop this year. We are optimistic. We hope that more tourists can come here after visiting other destinations in DPRK next year or even later when the country becomes more and more open. I think it is possible.'
Tourism to the beautiful mountain region is expected to continue to rise with tour packages aimed at Chinese travelers launched in conjunction with charter flights from Yanbianin and Dailan in China's northeast.
