Pyongyang, North Korea
Pyongyang
Pyongyang is the capital and largest city of North Korea, where it is known as the "Capital of the Revolution".

Pyongyang

Pyongyang is the capital and largest city of North Korea, where it is known as the "Capital of the...

Top 10 best tourist places in North Korea | Travel Video | Travel Guide | SKY Travel
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North Korea Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Pyongyang

Location:

Eastern Asia, northern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Korea Bay and the Sea of Japan, between China and South Korea

Currency:

North Korean won (KPW)

Area:

120,538 sq km

Population:

25,831,360 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

Korean

Religion:

traditionally Buddhist and Confucianist, some Christian and syncretic Chondogyo (Religion of the Heavenly Way)

TimeZone:

UTC+9

Tel Code:

+850

Things to Do

  • 1. Tour the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

    Visit the mausoleum of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, the former leaders of North Korea. The palace is a grand and opulent building surrounded by beautiful gardens.

  • 2. Explore the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

    Take a tour of the DMZ, the border between North and South Korea. Learn about the history and tension between the two countries while experiencing the heavily guarded area.

  • 3. Visit the Juche Tower

    Climb to the top of the Juche Tower, a monument dedicated to the Juche ideology. Enjoy panoramic views of Pyongyang from the observation deck.

  • 4. Go skiing at Masikryong Ski Resort

    Hit the slopes at Masikryong Ski Resort, the largest ski resort in North Korea. Enjoy a day of skiing and snowboarding surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.

  • 5. Experience the Arirang Mass Games

    Witness the grand spectacle of the Arirang Mass Games, a synchronized performance featuring thousands of performers. Marvel at the intricate choreography and stunning visuals.

  • 6. Visit the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

    Explore the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the mausoleum of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. See the preserved bodies of the former leaders and learn about their lives and legacies.

  • 7. Hike to Mount Paektu

    Embark on a challenging hike to Mount Paektu, a sacred mountain on the border of China and North Korea. Enjoy breathtaking views and learn about the mountain's significance in Korean mythology.

  • 8. Visit the Mangyongdae Native House

    Explore the childhood home of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea. Discover the humble origins of the country's first leader and learn about his early life.

  • 9. Experience the Pyongyang Metro

    Take a ride on the Pyongyang Metro, one of the deepest metro systems in the world. Admire the impressive architecture and decorative art in the metro stations.

  • 10. Visit the Yangdok Hot Springs

    Relax and rejuvenate at the Yangdok Hot Springs, a natural hot springs resort in North Korea. Enjoy the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich waters.

Weather

Climate

North Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.

  • Spring (April to June) is mild and rainy, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm.
  • Summer (July to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching as high as 35°C (95°F) and more than 12 hours of daylight.
  • Autumn (September to November) is cool and dry, with colorful foliage.
  • Winter (December to March) is cold and dry, with temperatures dropping as low as -20°C (-4°F) and heavy snowfall. ### Best Time to Visit The best time to visit North Korea depends on what kind of weather and activities you prefer.
  • Spring is a good time to visit for comfortable temperatures and flowers blooming.
  • Summer can be hot and humid, but it's the best time to experience the country's festivals and outdoor activities.
  • Autumn offers the best weather, with cooler temperatures and clear skies.
  • Winter is the coldest time to visit, but it's also the best time to see snow-covered landscapes and experience winter sports.

Food

Naengmyeon

Naengmyeon

Naengmyeon is a popular cold noodle dish in North Korea, usually made from buckwheat or potato starch. It is served in a cold broth or with a spicy dressing, and is often accompanied by slices of radish, hard-boiled egg, and pickled cucumber. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish, especially during hot summer days.

Bibimbap

Bibimbap

Bibimbap is a mixed rice dish topped with an array of vegetables, meat, and a raw or fried egg. The ingredients are carefully arranged on top of steamed rice and often seasoned with gochujang (chili pepper paste) to add a spicy kick. It's a colorful and flavorful dish that offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Kimchi

Kimchi

Kimchi is a staple in North Korean cuisine, consisting of fermented vegetables, typically napa cabbage and Korean radishes, seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and other spices. It's a tangy and spicy side dish that is enjoyed with almost every meal, providing a burst of flavor and the added health benefits of fermented foods.

Mulhoe

Mulhoe

Mulhoe is a cold and spicy soup made with raw fish, typically sliced raw fish, and iced dongchimi broth with a spicy dipping sauce on the side. It's a popular dish in North Korea, especially in coastal areas, and is known for its refreshing and invigorating flavors.

Pyeongyang Naengmyeon

Pyeongyang Naengmyeon

Pyeongyang Naengmyeon is a variation of cold noodles that originated in Pyongyang, North Korea. The noodles are made from arrowroot or sweet potato starch and are served in a tangy meat or kimchi broth with slices of pear, pickled radish, and a hard-boiled egg. It's a classic dish known for its unique blend of flavors.

Accommodation

State-Owned Hotels

The majority of accommodations in North Korea are state-owned hotels. These hotels are generally of decent quality and offer basic amenities such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, and heating. Some of the more well-known state-owned hotels include the Koryo Hotel in Pyongyang, the Yanggakdo Hotel in Pyongyang, and the Sosan Hotel in Pyongyang.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are also an option for accommodation in North Korea. These are typically smaller and more basic than state-owned hotels, and are usually reserved for lower-budget travelers. Guesthouses may not have amenities such as private bathrooms or air conditioning, but they are an authentic way to experience local life in North Korea.

Private Accommodations

Staying in private accommodations such as homes or apartments is not typically allowed for tourists in North Korea. However, in recent years, there have been reports of some tourists being able to stay in private homes in rural areas, but this is not something that is commonly offered or advertised.

It's worth noting that North Korea is a closed society and a unique destination, the accommodation options might be limited and have some restrictions. Tourists have to follow strict rules and regulations and have little freedom to move around.

Transportation

Air Travel

Air travel is the most common way for tourists to enter North Korea. The main airport in North Korea is Pyongyang Sunan International Airport, which is located just outside of the capital city of Pyongyang. There are flights from Beijing, Shenyang, Vladivostok, and other cities in Asia. The state-owned airline Air Koryo operates flights to and from several destinations in Asia, including Beijing, Shenyang, Vladivostok, and Dandong.

Train Travel

Taking a train is another option for getting to North Korea. The main train station in North Korea is Pyongyang Station, which is located in the capital city of Pyongyang. There are train connections to Beijing and Moscow, as well as other destinations in Asia.

Bus Travel

Buses are also a common mode of transportation in North Korea. There are bus connections between major cities such as Pyongyang and Kaesong, as well as between cities and towns in the countryside.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in North Korea, but tourists are usually not allowed to use them without a guide. Taxis are usually only used by tourists as part of a pre-arranged tour package.

It's worth noting that North Korea is a closed society and a unique destination, the transportation options might be limited and have some restrictions. Tourists have to follow strict rules and regulations and have little freedom to move around.

Money

Currency

  • The currency of North Korea is the North Korean won (KPW).

Cash And Cards

  • Cash is the primary form of payment in North Korea.
  • Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is recommended to carry enough cash for your expenses.

ATMs

  • ATMs are not widely available in North Korea.
  • It is recommended to exchange currency beforehand or carry enough cash.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not a common practice in North Korea.

Cost Of Living

  • The cost of living in North Korea is relatively low compared to other countries.

Scams

  • Be cautious of exchanging money on the black market, as it is illegal and may lead to scams.
  • It is recommended to use official exchange offices or banks for currency exchange.