Things To Do
in Pyongyang
Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, is a city of grand avenues, monumental architecture, and carefully curated public spaces built to project a specific national image. It showcases expansive monuments to its leaders, wide boulevards, and meticulously maintained public amenities. The city operates within a guided framework for visitors, with state-run museums, theaters, and performances that reflect the country’s unique ideology.
Travelers should expect a controlled environment that emphasizes ceremonial grandeur over spontaneous street life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey at Kim Il-sung Square, where you can admire the monumental architecture surrounding you. Take time to observe the locals as they engage in their daily routines, often gathering for morning exercises. The atmosphere is charged with the spirit of the nation, making it a perfect start to your exploration.
Visit the Grand People's Study House, a stunning library and cultural center, where you can delve into North Korean literature and history. Stroll through the nearby Mangyongdae Native House, the birthplace of Kim Il-sung, and learn about the significant events of the Korean revolution. As you explore, engage with local guides to gain deeper insights into their cultural practices.
End your day with a visit to the Pyongyang Circus, where you can witness incredible performances by local artists. The colorful displays and acrobatics are not only entertaining but also reflect a unique aspect of North Korean culture. After the show, enjoy a traditional Korean dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like cold noodles and kimchi.
Start your day at the Arch of Triumph, an impressive structure commemorating the Korean resistance against Japanese occupation. Spend time taking photographs and appreciating the intricate details of the monument. The surrounding park is a lovely place for a leisurely stroll as you soak in the historical significance of the site.
Head to the Mansudae Grand Monument, where you can pay your respects to the statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. The site is often bustling with visitors, providing an insight into the reverence the locals have for their leaders. Afterward, proceed to the nearby Korean Revolutionary Museum to explore exhibits showcasing the country's history and revolutionary struggles.
Conclude your day at the Pyongyang Metro, one of the deepest underground systems in the world, and explore its beautifully decorated stations. Enjoy a ride on the train, where you can experience daily life in Pyongyang as locals commute home. After your metro adventure, find a cozy spot for dinner and try some local specialties, perhaps enjoying a warm bowl of Pyongyang-style cold noodles.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍜Meal at a mid-range restaurant (for two) | $25-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (city center) | $3-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee or casual cafe visit | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Majestic public spaces and monumental architecture
- Structured experiences and curated cultural programs
- Limited freedom of movement and language barriers
- Restricted dining and nightlife options for most travelers
- "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "감사합니다 (Kamsahamnida)" - Thank you
- "영어를 할 수 있나요? (Yeongeoreul hal su isseoyo?)" - Do you speak English?
- "화장실이 어디에 있어요? (Hwajangsil i eodie isseoyo?)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Pyongyang
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast complex with towering statues of historic figures; early morning or late afternoon light is ideal, with guidelines for respectful photography.
A prominent architectural landmark along a wide avenue, offering strong axial lines for wide-angle city shots.
A central civic space framed by grand buildings and monuments; good for establishing shots of the city’s scale.
A tall, modern obelisk with an observation deck—exterior views yield dramatic skyline photographs.
A distinctive pyramid-shaped tower; exterior shots capture the city’s unique skyline.
Food in Pyongyang
Pyongyang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chewy buckwheat noodles in a cold, tangy broth with cucumber, pear, and slices of beef; a signature dish often highlighted at Pyongyang eateries.
Must-Try!
Fermented vegetables (usually napa cabbage or radish) seasoned with chili, garlic, and ginger; a staple at most meals.
A hearty tofu-vegetable stew seasoned with fermented soybean paste; widely available and accommodating for meat-free options.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A government-operated market where you can observe daily life, purchase basic groceries, and sample simple prepared foods when available.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show reverence at national monuments; avoid public criticism of leaders or government policies; follow local guidelines for photography and conduct in public spaces.
Ask for permission where required, avoid photographing military or security installations, and respect signs and staff instructions.
Safety
Tipping in Pyongyang
Ensure a smooth experience
Formal tipping is not a common practice in DPRK tourism; most service charges are included in prices for official venues. If offered, a small gratuity to staff at your discretion is appreciated, but not expected.
Foreign visitors typically pay with hard currency (USD, EUR, CNY) at tourist facilities. Domestic currency (KPW) is generally not used by foreigners. Credit cards are rarely accepted; carry cash and exchange as needed at official venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; comfortable for outdoor exploring and city photography, though occasional showers can occur.
Warm to hot and humid with periodic rain; plan for early mornings or late afternoons for outdoor activities to avoid peak heat.
Pleasant and crisp with clear skies; ideal for walking the boulevards and riverfronts, though evenings can be cool.
Cold and dry with potential subfreezing temperatures; dress in layers and be prepared for limited outdoor options, though monuments and indoor venues remain active.
Pyongyang at Night
Hiking in Pyongyang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A modest ascent close to the city offering scenic viewpoints of the surrounding area and a chance to experience local hillside trails.
Gentle to moderate trails around Moran Hill with accessible routes for a light hike and city views.
Airports
How to reach Pyongyang by plane.
Main international gateway to the country; operations and schedules are subject to government oversight and foreign travel arrangements.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Koreans with a tightly knit social fabric centered around state institutions and public life.
A small resident and visitor expatriate community supported by organized tours and state-approved channels.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport; games and practice are common in local communities and organized events may be arranged for visitors.
Popular in schools and urban centers; indoor courts host local games and demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pyongyang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can typically find rice, tofu, vegetable dishes, and kimchi in hotel or state-run restaurants; be prepared for limited spice levels and occasional fish or meat-based broths. It helps to clearly request meat-free options and confirm ingredients in advance.