Best Time to Visit Popular Destinations in Pyongyang, Korea, North
1. Mausoleum of Kim Il-sung
Pay respects at the grand mausoleum dedicated to the country's eternal leader. Best visited in spring when the surrounding Taedong River is in full bloom.
- Seasonal Beauty: Enjoy the beauty of the blossoming flowers around the mausoleum in spring.
- Respectful Atmosphere: Maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor during your visit.
- Advanced Planning: Planning is essential as foreign tourists must apply for permission in advance.
2. Kim Il-sung Square
Witness the grandeur of the largest city square in North Korea. Ideal to visit during mass dances or military parades held on special occasions.
- Special Occasions: Plan your visit around special events, such as the Foundation Day of the Korean Workers' Party.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the impressive architecture and lively performances.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to fully understand the cultural and historical significance of the square.
3. River Dan Crystal Tower
Experience the breathtaking views of Pyongyang from the highest point in the city. Best visited during sunset for a romantic atmosphere.
- Sunset Views: Watch the sun set over the city, offering a beautiful backdrop for photos.
- Indoor Activities: Enjoy indoor activities like dining and shopping while taking in the panoramic views.
- Advanced Booking: Book your visit ahead of time to guarantee access.
4. Taekswi-dong Street Market
Explore the bustling local market and interact with friendly North Korean vendors. Best visited during morning hours for a more active atmosphere.
- Local Interaction: Engage in conversations with locals to gain insights into daily life.
- Bargaining Skills: Practice your bargaining skills to get the best deals on goods.
- Street Food Delights: Sample delicious street foods, such as Pyongyang cold noodles and kimchi pancakes.
5. Munsu-won Revolutionary Site
Walk in the footsteps of North Korea's revolutionary heroes at this historic site. Best visited during summer when the surrounding area is lush and green.
- Revolutionary History: Learn about the history of North Korean revolution.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the area, which offers scenic walking trails and photo opportunities.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the site's historical significance.
6. Jonathan Swinton School
Step into an English-speaking school in North Korea. Best visited during school hours to observe the educational system.
- English-Speaking Environment: Experience a rare opportunity to interact with locals who speak English.
- Educational Insights: Gain insights into the North Korean educational system and cultural values.
- Advanced Planning: Planning is essential as foreign visitors must apply for permission in advance.
7. Pyongyang Arch of Triumph
Admire the grandeur of North Korea's tribute to the victories of the Korean People's Army. Best visited during nighttime for a spectacular lighting display.
- Nighttime Illumination: Experience the stunning illumination of the arch at night.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the historical significance of the Arch of Triumph in North Korean history.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture beautiful photos of the arch during your visit.
8. Moranbong Band Performance
Enjoy a lively and energetic performance by North Korea's national pop band. Best visited during evening hours when the performances take place.
- Lively Entertainment: Experience the high-energy performance of Moranbong Band.
- Cultural Insights: Gain insights into North Korean music and cultural values through the performance.
- Advanced Booking: Book your visit in advance to secure tickets for the performances.
9. Pyongyang Metro
Ride the deepest metro system in the world and observe the daily life of Pyongyang's residents. Best visited during morning or evening rush hours.
- Deepest Metro System: Experience riding on the deepest metro system in the world.
- Cultural Insights: Gain insights into North Korean cultural values through observing the behavior of fellow passengers.
- Metro Etiquette: Respect local etiquette and customs when riding the metro, such as giving up your seat to elderly or pregnant women.
10. Taedonggang Brewery
Tour North Korea's largest brewery and sample their famous beer. Best visited during the daytime for a guided tour.
- Beer Tasting: Enjoy a complimentary tasting of Taedonggang beer.
- Brewery Tour: Take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and history of Taedonggang beer.
- Advanced Booking: Book your visit in advance to secure a spot on the tour.
11. Pyongyang Circus
Experience an exhilarating circus performance filled with acrobatics, music, and colorful costumes. Best visited during evening hours when the performances take place.
- Exhilarating Performance: Experience a thrilling circus performance filled with acrobatics and music.
- Cultural Insights: Gain insights into North Korean cultural values through the circus performance.
- Advanced Booking: Book your visit in advance to secure tickets for the performance.
12. Mansu Hill Grand Monument
Pay respects at the grand monument dedicated to the leaders of North Korea. Best visited during morning hours for a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Respectful Atmosphere: Maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor during your visit.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the historical significance of the monument in North Korean history.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the monument's historical significance.
13. Pyongyang Zoo
Visit North Korea's only zoo and see rare animals from around the world. Best visited during daytime hours.
- Rare Animal Species: See rare animal species not found in many other zoos.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the animals and their habitats.
- Feeding Times: Plan your visit around feeding times to see the animals at their most active.
14. April Street Food Festival
Taste a variety of delicious street foods at this annual festival. Best visited in April when the festival takes place.
- Food Variety: Sample a wide range of traditional and modern North Korean dishes.
- Cultural Insights: Gain insights into North Korean culinary traditions through the festival.
- Community Engagement: Participate in activities and engage with local communities during the festival.
15. Pyongyang International Marathon
Join thousands of runners from around the world in this annual marathon event. Best visited in October when the race takes place.
- Global Participation: Run with participants from various countries and exchange cultural experiences.
- Scenic Route: Experience a scenic running route through Pyongyang's most iconic landmarks.
- Physical Preparation: Train adequately before the race to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.