Weird & Unusual Attractions in Pyongyang, P’yŏngyang, Korea, North

Pyongyang, Korea, North, Pyongyang, Unique & Fun, Weird & Unusual Attractions

Weird & Unusual Attractions in Pyongyang, P’yŏngyang, Korea, North

1. Tower of the Juche Idea

A giant steel structure representing the ideology of self-reliance and national unity, it's a symbol of North Korea's political system.
  • Gigantic Structure: Standing at about 170 meters tall, it is one of the largest structures in Pyongyang.
  • Political Symbol: The tower is a testament to the importance of the Juche Idea in North Korean society.
  • Night Illumination: The tower is beautifully lit up at night, offering a unique and striking view.

2. Rungna People's Pleasure Ground

A massive amusement park featuring roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and other rides, it is one of the largest in Asia.
  • Size: The park covers an area of approximately 1.3 million square meters.
  • Unique Rides: Some rides are designed uniquely for this park, not found in other amusement parks.
  • Entertainment Complex: The park also includes a variety of restaurants, shops, and performances.

3. Taesong San Revolutionary Site

A historical site dedicated to the revolution led by Kim Il-sung, featuring his birthplace and other significant locations.
  • Birthplace of Kim Il-sung: Visitors can see the humble home where Kim Il-sung was born.
  • Revolutionary History: The site provides insights into the Korean War and North Korea's revolutionary history.
  • Monuments and Statues: There are numerous monuments and statues dedicated to key figures of the revolution.

4. Mansudae Art Studio

A studio where artists create the world-renowned monumental sculptures, including statues of the leaders.
  • Artistic Skill: The artists' skills and techniques are passed down through generations.
  • Monumental Sculptures: Visitors can witness the creation of these massive, detailed sculptures.
  • Government-Sponsored: The studio is directly managed by the North Korean government.

5. Pyongyang Metro Art Gallery

A collection of fine art and murals decorating the metro stations in Pyongyang.
  • Underground Art Gallery: It is one of the few underground art galleries in the world.
  • Socialist Realism: The artworks reflect socialist realism, the official style of the North Korean government.
  • Metro Ride Experience: Visitors get a unique experience by combining sightseeing with a metro ride.

6. Museum of the Korean Revolution

A museum dedicated to the history of the Korean revolution and the struggles for independence.
  • Revolutionary History: The museum provides an insight into the Korean War and North Korea's revolutionary history.
  • Original Artifacts: The museum houses numerous original artifacts from the revolution period.
  • Propaganda Posters: Visitors can see a collection of propaganda posters that reflect the ideology of North Korea.

7. Korean Central Zoo

A zoo home to various exotic and domestic animals, including a giant panda named Wen-er.
  • Giant Panda: The zoo is the only place in North Korea where visitors can see a giant panda.
  • Exotic and Domestic Animals: Visitors can see animals such as elephants, camels, tigers, and various birds.
  • Botanical Garden: The zoo also houses a beautiful botanical garden with over 5,000 plant species.

8. Pyongyang Funfair

An amusement park featuring various rides and games, providing fun and entertainment for visitors.
  • Amusement Rides: The park features a variety of rides such as roller coasters, carousels, and Ferris wheels.
  • Games and Prizes: Visitors can enjoy a range of games, with the chance to win prizes.
  • Cultural Performances: The park also offers traditional Korean performances.

9. Arch of Triumph

A triumphal arch similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but larger and more ornate.
  • Larger Than Arc de Triomphe: The Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang is taller and wider than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
  • Ornate Decoration: The arch is decorated with detailed bas-reliefs depicting significant events in Korean history.
  • Night Illumination: The arch is beautifully lit up at night, offering a unique and striking view.

10. Pyongyang Planetarium

A planetarium showing star constellations, celestial events, and space exploration.
  • Stargazing Experience: Visitors can enjoy a virtual stargazing experience in the planetarium dome.
  • Space Education: The planetarium also provides educational programs about space exploration.
  • Night Sky Observation: On clear nights, visitors can observe the actual night sky through telescopes.

11. Mangyongdae Native House

The childhood home of Kim Il-sung, offering insights into his early life.
  • Early Life Insights: Visitors can see the humble home where Kim Il-sung spent his childhood.
  • Revolutionary History: The house provides an insight into the Korean War and North Korea's revolutionary history.
  • Garden and Pond: The property also includes a beautiful garden and pond, offering a peaceful setting.

12. Pyongyang City Zoo Aquarium

An aquarium featuring various marine life, from freshwater to saltwater species.
  • Marine Life Variety: The aquarium houses a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can interact with the exhibits, learning about marine ecosystems and conservation efforts.
  • Educational Programs: The aquarium offers educational programs and workshops for visitors.

13. Pothonggang Tower

A tower offering panoramic views of Pyongyang, with a revolving restaurant at the top.
  • Panoramic Views: Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Pyongyang from the observation deck.
  • Revolving Restaurant: The revolving restaurant at the top offers a unique dining experience with ever-changing city views.
  • Night Illumination: The tower is beautifully lit up at night, offering a breathtaking sight of Pyongyang's illuminated skyline.

14. Pyongyang Folk Street

A street showcasing traditional Korean architecture and cultural performances.
  • Traditional Architecture: Visitors can see traditional Korean houses, shops, and restaurants.
  • Cultural Performances: The street offers various cultural performances, such as traditional music and dance.
  • Shopping Opportunities: Visitors can shop for traditional Korean goods and souvenirs.

15. Pyongyang Ferris Wheel

A large Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of Pyongyang from the top.
  • Panoramic Views: Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Pyongyang from the top of the Ferris wheel.
  • Night Illumination: The Ferris wheel is beautifully lit up at night, offering a unique and romantic experience.
  • Leisure Activity: Riding the Ferris wheel provides a fun leisure activity for both locals and tourists.