Things To Do
in Pyongyang
Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, is a city known for its grand architecture and wide boulevards. It is home to numerous monuments and landmarks celebrating the country's leadership and ideology. The city has a strict atmosphere and is tightly controlled by the government, with limited interaction with the outside world.
Despite its political reputation, Pyongyang offers glimpses of everyday life through its markets, parks, and cultural attractions.
- "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
- "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
- "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
- "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit Kim Il-sung Square to admire the grand monuments and statues. Capture the essence of Pyongyang's political history as you walk around this iconic site.
Tour the Korean War Museum to understand the nation's past conflicts. Engage with informative displays and learn about significant historical events.
Dine at a local restaurant to sample traditional Korean cuisine. Enjoy the flavors while soaking in the atmosphere of North Korean hospitality.
Explore the Mangyongdae Native House, the birthplace of Kim Il-sung. The site features exhibits that highlight his early life and influence on North Korea.
Visit the National Art Gallery to see works by local artists. The gallery offers insight into North Korean culture and artistic expressions.
Attend a performance at the Pyongyang Circus for entertainment. The show showcases acrobatic feats and traditional aesthetics reflecting North Korean culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, including historical sites and monuments.
- Unique architectural styles, particularly in government buildings and monuments.
- Strong sense of national identity and pride among residents.
- Severe restrictions on personal freedoms and lack of political liberties.
- Limited access to information and media due to state control.
- Economic hardships, including food shortages and poor living conditions.
Best Activities in Pyongyang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
This amusement park offers a range of outdoor activities, including rides, games, and entertainment.
These natural hot springs are ideal for outdoor relaxation and rejuvenation in a beautiful natural setting.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this scenic course amidst beautiful surroundings.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor picnics in the picturesque Moran Hill Park, known for its natural beauty and historical significance.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pyongyang with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pyongyang
Visit one of these nice places.
A 170-meter monument offering panoramic views of Pyongyang and the Taedong River.
The mausoleum of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il with beautifully landscaped surroundings.
A bronze statue of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il set against the backdrop of Pyongyang's cityscape.
Food in Pyongyang
Pyongyang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cold buckwheat noodles, traditionally served in a tangy iced broth with pickled radish, sesame, and cucumber. Can be found at Okryugwan Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A mixed rice dish topped with a variety of sautéed and seasoned vegetables. Try at Koryo Hotel's Yanggakdo revolving restaurant.
Fermented vegetables, typically napa cabbage, and radishes, seasoned with chili peppers and various spices. Available in local markets and restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pyongyang better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Offering a wide range of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food options like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).
Known for its bustling atmosphere and a diverse array of local street food vendors selling grilled meats, dumplings, and fried treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In North Korea, it is important to show respect for authority figures, including government officials and elders. Always use formal and polite language when addressing them.
When visiting places like monuments, museums, and government buildings, it's important to dress modestly and avoid wearing clothing that may be considered disrespectful or provocative.
Avoid public displays of affection, loud or boisterous behavior, and any negative comments about the regime or leadership. It's important to maintain a respectful and composed demeanor in public.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pyongyang with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pyongyang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected or practiced in Pyongyang, North Korea. It is uncommon for locals to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service-oriented establishments.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Pyongyang, North Korea. Credit and debit cards are rarely accepted, especially for foreigners. It's important for visitors to carry enough local currency for their expenses as access to ATMs and foreign currency exchange may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pyongyang.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Pyongyang is in spring, during April and May, when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. During this time, you can expect pleasant temperatures and colorful floral displays throughout the city.
Summer, from June to August, can be hot and humid in Pyongyang. The city experiences heavy rainfall during this season, and visitors can expect warm temperatures and lush green landscapes.
Autumn, from September to November, is another popular time to visit Pyongyang. The weather is comfortable with cool temperatures, and the fall foliage in the surrounding areas is a beautiful sight to behold.
Winter, from December to February, can be cold and snowy in Pyongyang. However, visiting during this season provides a unique opportunity to experience the city blanketed in snow and partake in winter activities.
Pyongyang at Night
Hiking in Pyongyang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A significant peak on the border between North Korea and China, Baekdu Mountain is not only scenic but also holds cultural importance. The area offers various trails with stunning views.
Located approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Pyongyang, Myohyangsan features beautiful mountainous landscapes, unique rock formations, and several hiking trails within the Myohyangsan National Park.
Known as Diamond Mountain, Kumgangsan is famous for its picturesque scenery and hiking routes. While it is further from Pyongyang, it remains one of the most celebrated natural sites in North Korea.
This crater lake located on Baekdu Mountain provides hiking opportunities around its shores, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and diverse landscapes.
As a symbol of North Korean heritage, Mangyongdae is a hill located near Pyongyang, featuring walking paths and trails that are suitable for a leisurely hike while exploring local history.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pyongyang through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pyongyang by plane.
The main international airport serving Pyongyang, North Korea.
The main international airport serving Beijing, China, located approximately 1,000 km from Pyongyang.
The main international airport serving Seoul, South Korea, located approximately 1,100 km from Pyongyang.
An international airport serving Shenyang, China, located approximately 700 km from Pyongyang.
An international airport serving Dalian, China, located approximately 800 km from Pyongyang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Pyongyang is ethnically Korean, comprising nearly all residents in the city.
There is a small community of ethnic Chinese, mostly involved in trade and commerce.
Very few foreigners and other ethnic groups reside in Pyongyang, mainly due to the strict immigration laws in North Korea.
The Soul of Pyongyang
Discover the essence of Pyongyang through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Pyongyang, with significant participation in both professional and amateur leagues. The country has a national team that competes in international tournaments.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity in North Korea, with many facilities and teams. The Pyongyang University of Sports and various local clubs promote the sport across different age groups.
Table tennis is a widely played sport in North Korea and is a source of national pride, with the country often producing competitive players in international events.
Volleyball is also popular in Pyongyang, played in schools and community centers. The sport is encouraged at various levels, including professional women's teams.
Athletics, particularly track and field events, has a following in North Korea, with athletes participating in competitions both domestically and internationally.
Gymnastics is popular in North Korea, with the government investing in training for young athletes. The sport is showcased during national events and celebrations.
Wrestling has a strong tradition in North Korea, and it is supported as part of national sports education. Competitions are held at various levels, including internationally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pyongyang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While vegetarian and vegan options may be limited, many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes like bibimbap, vegetable stir-fries, and tofu soups.
It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the restaurant staff, and they can often prepare gluten-free alternatives using rice or potato-based ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pyongyang with these cultural adventures.
