Pyongyang

North Korea, Asia

Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, is a place steeped in history and unique architecture. It boasts the iconic Kim Il-sung Square, the awe-inspiring Arch of Triumph, and the massive Mass Games, showcasing a blend of cultural performances that highlight North Korean traditions. The city's atmosphere is distinctive, offering a glimpse into a different lifestyle, marked by stark contrasts between modernity and history, making it a fascinating destination for the curious traveler.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Pyongyang

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Pyongyang

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kim Il Sung Square

Experience the heart of Pyongyang's political life.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

Pay respects at the mausoleum of North Korea's leaders.

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Korean War Museum

Understand Korea's turbulent history through exhibits.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk the Pyongyang Metro

Ride one of the world's deepest subway systems.

No booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Arch of Triumph

Marvel at the world's tallest triumphal arch.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Mass Games performance

Witness a spectacular display of synchronized artistry.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

Learn about North Korea's perspective on the Korean War.

No booking required
8

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Kim Il Sung Square

Relax at the key political and cultural gathering spot.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Mangyongdae Native House

Visit the birthplace of Kim Il Sung.

No booking required
10

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Friendship Tower

See a monument celebrating Sino-Korean relations.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

North Korean Won

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Korean

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kimchi

VE

Fermented vegetables, usually cabbage. (National dish)

Naengmyeon

Cold buckwheat noodles in broth.

Pyongyang Onban

Chicken and rice soup from Pyongyang.

Mandu

Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.

Kkotgejang

Crab marinated in spicy sauce.

Phrases to learn

English

Korean

Hello

Annyeong

(Ahn-yong)

Yes/No

Ne / Aniyo

(Neh / Ah-nee-yo)

Thank you

Gamsahamnida

(Gahm-sah-hahm-nee-dah)

Excuse me

Joesonghamnida

(Choh-sung-hahm-nee-dah)

How much?

Eolma yeyo?

(Ohl-ma yeh-yoh)