
Getting Around the City in Pyongyang, Korea, North
1. Pyongyang Metro
A unique underground transportation system with beautiful decorations and mosaics.
- Unique Decor: Unlike any other metro, Pyongyang's metro stations showcase intricate decorative elements.
- Affordable Fares: Traveling around the city is very affordable, making it a preferred choice for locals and tourists alike.
- Limited Information: It's challenging to find information about station maps or schedules in English, so it may require asking locals for help.
2. Taxi Services
Official taxis are the primary means of private transportation in Pyongyang.
- Language Barrier: Communicating with drivers may be difficult due to the language barrier, but many drivers understand some English.
- Fixed Rates: Taxis operate on a fixed-rate system, making it easy to budget your transportation costs.
- Quality of Vehicles: The taxis are well-maintained and cleaner than many other cities' public transport vehicles.
3. Jangdan Buses
These open-top buses offer a unique way to see the city from above.
- City Views: The Jangdan Buses provide panoramic views of Pyongyang's iconic architecture and landmarks.
- Tour Guide Required: A tour guide is usually required to ride these buses, making it more expensive but educational.
- Limited Schedules: Their operating schedules are limited and may not be as convenient for some travelers.
4. Cyclo Taxis
Three-wheeled bicycle taxis are a common sight in Pyongyang.
- Manual Pedaling: These vehicles are pedaled by the driver, providing a more leisurely and eco-friendly option.
- Limited Availability: Cyclo taxis may not be as readily available in all parts of the city.
- Negotiated Prices: Prices for cyclo taxi rides are negotiable, making it essential to agree on a fare before starting your journey.
5. Funicular Railway
The funicular railway is a convenient way to access the hills surrounding Pyongyang.
- Scenic Views: The funicular offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
- Limited Access: The funicular only services specific hills in Pyongyang, so it may not be suitable for exploring other areas.
- Fewer Crowds: The funicular tends to have fewer passengers than the metro or taxis, making it a quieter option.
6. Bicycle Rentals
Renting a bike is an affordable and eco-friendly way to explore Pyongyang.
- Self-Guided Tour: Biking allows you to explore the city at your own pace, creating a unique self-guided tour experience.
- Limited Availability: Bike rental shops may not be as widespread throughout the city.
- Lack of Infrastructure: There are limited bike lanes and infrastructure for cyclists, so safety concerns may arise.
7. Trolleybuses
An affordable and eco-friendly option for traveling around Pyongyang.
- Affordability: The trolleybus system is one of the cheapest ways to travel in Pyongyang.
- Eco-Friendly: Trolleybuses use electricity, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
- Limited Information: Route maps and schedules may not be easily accessible for tourists, so asking locals for help is advised.
8. Chairlift to Taesongsan
The chairlift offers a scenic way to reach the top of Pyongyang's most famous mountain.
- Scenic Views: The chairlift provides breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
- Limited Availability: The chairlift may not be operational all year round, so it's best to check before planning your visit.
- Fewer Crowds: The chairlift tends to have fewer passengers than the metro or taxis, making it a quieter option.
9. River Taxi Services
A unique way to explore Pyongyang from the water.
- Scenic Views: The river taxi provides a different perspective of the city, showing famous landmarks along the river.
- Limited Availability: River taxis may not be available throughout the entire year due to seasonal conditions.
- Lack of Routes: The river taxi services have limited routes, making it less convenient for extensive exploration.
10. Walking Tours
Guided walking tours can help you explore Pyongyang's historical and cultural sites.
- Educational Experience: The tours offer insights into the city's history, culture, and architecture.
- Limited Availability: Walking tours may not be available on a daily basis or outside of specific tour groups.
- Cost: The cost of walking tours can vary greatly depending on the duration and coverage of the tour.
11. Automobile Taxis (Limousines)
More expensive than regular taxis, but offer a more luxurious experience.
- Luxury Experience: These vehicles are typically newer, cleaner, and offer a more comfortable ride.
- Higher Cost: The cost for automobile taxis is significantly higher than regular taxis or public transportation.
- Limited Availability: Automobile taxis may not be as readily available in all parts of the city.
12. Tram System
An affordable and scenic way to travel through Pyongyang.
- Scenic Views: The tram system provides a different perspective of the city, allowing you to see various landmarks.
- Affordability: Trams are one of the cheapest ways to travel in Pyongyang.
- Limited Information: Route maps and schedules may not be easily accessible for tourists, so asking locals for help is advised.
13. Carriage Rides
Experience the charm of a horse-drawn carriage ride in Pyongyang.
- Romantic Experience: Carriage rides offer a romantic and picturesque way to explore the city.
- Limited Availability: Carriage rides may not be available in all parts of the city, so it's best to ask locals for information.
- Cost: The cost of a carriage ride can vary greatly depending on the duration and distance traveled.
14. Monorail System
A modern addition to Pyongyang's public transportation system.
- Unique Transportation Option: The monorail is a unique transportation option in the city, offering an elevated perspective of Pyongyang.
- Limited Routes: The monorail only serves specific areas of the city, so it may not be suitable for extensive exploration.
- New Technology: The monorail showcases modern technology and efficiency in Pyongyang's public transportation system.
15. Ferry Services
An affordable way to travel between Haeju and Sinuiju from Pyongyang.
- Affordable Travel: Ferries are one of the most affordable ways to travel long distances in North Korea.
- Scenic Views: The ferry journey offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
- Limited Information: Ferry schedules and ticket information may not be easily accessible for tourists, so asking locals for help is advised.