How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Pyongyang, Korea, North

1. Ryomyong Street Food Market

Avoid overpriced street food stalls; find authentic local cuisine here.

Avoid overpriced beer; visit this government-run brewery.

Avoid touristy neighborhoods; explore this historic birthplace of Kim Il-sung.

Historic Significance: Has strong historical and cultural relevance
Local Atmosphere: Less crowded, more authentic local experience
Quieter Environment: Less touristy and commercialized compared to downtown Pyongyang

Avoid long lines; visit during off-peak hours or on weekdays.

Peace and Quiet: Offers a serene, contemplative atmosphere
Respectful Environment: Requires proper attire and behavior
Historical Importance: Serves as the final resting place of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il

Avoid overpriced souvenirs; find affordable goods at this local department store.

Affordable Prices: Offers competitively priced North Korean souvenirs
Wide Selection: Stocks a variety of items, including local art and food products
Local Atmosphere: Less crowded and more focused on locals' shopping needs

Avoid overpriced art; visit this state-owned studio for affordable artwork.

State-Owned: Prices are regulated, ensuring affordability
Talented Artisans: Features skilled artists who create traditional Korean art
Authentic Artwork: Offers genuine North Korean artwork, not mass-produced items

Avoid overcrowded parks; enjoy peace and quiet at this spacious green area.

Spacious Green Area: Provides ample space for leisurely walks and relaxation
Local Atmosphere: Less crowded, more authentic local experience
Scenic Beauty: Features picturesque lake views and lush greenery

Avoid touristy trails; hike off-the-beaten-path for a more authentic experience.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Hiking: Allows for exploration of less crowded, untouched trails
Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking mountain vistas and waterfalls
Historical Significance: Includes the famous temples of Pohyon and Byongjin

Avoid tourist-oriented language schools; learn Korean with local students.

Learn from Locals: Offers classes taught by native Korean speakers
Authentic Cultural Experience: Provides insights into North Korean culture and daily life
Affordable Prices: Offers competitive prices compared to tourist-oriented schools

Avoid overcrowded tourist lines; explore the beautiful subway system.

Beautiful Architecture: Stations showcase impressive socialist-era murals
Affordable Prices: Rides are very cheap compared to other cities' metro systems
Local Atmosphere: Less crowded, more authentic local experience

Avoid overpriced souvenirs; visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.

Historical Significance: Offers insight into the Korean War and its impact
Respectful Environment: Requires proper attire and behavior when visiting exhibits
Peace and Quiet: Less crowded during off-peak hours or on weekdays

Avoid overpriced tickets; enjoy a performance at this iconic venue.

Iconic Venue: Features impressive architecture and acoustics
Affordable Prices: Ticket prices are lower compared to other performance venues
Cultural Experience: Offers traditional North Korean performances, such as Arirang

Avoid long lines; visit during off-peak hours or on weekdays.

Historical Significance: Serves as the final resting place of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il
Peace and Quiet: Offers a serene, contemplative atmosphere
Respectful Environment: Requires proper attire and behavior when visiting exhibits

Avoid overpriced ferry services; travel to Nampo for an authentic experience.

Authentic Local Experience: Provides insights into life on the North Korean coast
Affordable Prices: Ferry tickets are competitively priced compared to tourist-oriented services
Less Touristy Atmosphere: Nampo is less visited by tourists, providing a more authentic experience

Avoid overpriced animal encounters; enjoy the natural surroundings and wildlife.

Natural Surroundings: Offers a more natural environment for animals compared to zoos in other countries
Affordable Prices: Entrance fees are lower compared to other major zoos
Local Atmosphere: Less crowded, more authentic local experience