Pyongyang

North Korea

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Sunrise

5:11 AM

Sunset

8:08 PM

About

Pyongyang, the capital city of North Korea, is a mysterious and intriguing destination. The city boasts impressive monuments, grand architecture, and pristine public spaces, all carefully curated to show off the country's achievements and ideology. Visitors can take in the city's iconic landmarks, including the Juche Tower, the Ryugyong Hotel, and the Mansudae Grand Monument, while getting a glimpse into the everyday life of North Koreans.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Juche Tower

Standing at 170m tall, this obelisk-shaped tower represents the ideology of Juche, or self-reliance, that guides North Korea's political philosophy.
2. Kim Il Sung Square

The city's main square, named after the country's founder and eternal president, where military parades and public rallies are held.
3. Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

The mausoleum of Kim Il Sung and his son and successor, Kim Jong Il, where their embalmed bodies are displayed for public viewing.
4. Grand People's Study House

A massive library and cultural center that was recently renovated and offers multimedia exhibits and lectures.
5. Moranbong Park

A scenic park in the city center that includes the Moranbong Amphitheater and a lake for boating.
6. Ryomyong Street

A new and modern high-rise development that includes apartments, offices, and shops.
7. Mangyongdae Native House

The birthplace of Kim Il Sung, located outside the city in a rural setting, now turned into a museum.
8. Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

A museum dedicated to the country's war against the United States and South Korea, showcasing weapons, artifacts, and propaganda posters.
9. Arch of Triumph

A massive arch inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, commemorating the Korean resistance against Japan's colonization in the early 20th century.
10. Taedongmun Gate

One of the four remaining city gates, built during the Joseon dynasty and now a national treasure.
11. Mangyongdae Revolutionary Site

Another museum that showcases the life of Kim Il Sung, including his childhood home and the site where he organized anti-Japanese resistance.
12. Pyongyang Film Studios

The largest film studio in North Korea, where many of the country's movies and dramas are produced.
13. Kim Il Sung Stadium

The city's main sports stadium, used for football matches and other events.
14. Pyongyang Ice Rink

A popular venue for ice skating and hockey, with a capacity of 6,000 spectators.
15. Mirae Scientists Street

A development that houses apartment buildings and laboratories for scientists and researchers.
16. Mansudae Art Studio

A massive complex of workshops and galleries where North Korean artists produce and display their works.
17. Kumsong Foodstuff Factory

A factory that produces "the world's best noodle," according to North Korean officials, and other food products.
18. Pyongyang Children's Palace

A center for extracurricular activities for young children, including music, dance, and sports.
19. Rungra Island

An island in the Taedong River that includes a water park, a dolphinarium, and a scenic promenade.
20. The Central Zoo

A zoo with over 6,000 animals, including bears, tigers, and elephants.
21. Kim Chaek University of Technology

A prestigious university that focuses on science and technology, named after a Korean independence fighter.
22. Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery

An imposing cemetery that honors North Korean soldiers and fighters who died for the country's independence and socialism.
23. Mangyongdae Funfair

An amusement park that includes roller coasters, bumper cars, and other rides.
24. Chollima Statue

A massive statue of a winged horse, symbolizing the country's rapid economic development and striving for progress.
25. Koryo Museum

Located inside a medieval Confucian academy, this museum displays artifacts from the Koryo dynasty, which ruled Korea from 918 to 1392.
26. Kwangbok Department Store

A high-end department store that sells luxury goods and has its own cinema and restaurant.
27. Moran Hill

A scenic hill in the heart of the city, with pavilions, gardens, and statues of revolutionary heroes.
28. Revolutionary Opera Theatre

A venue for operas and ballets that praise the country's leaders and socialist ideals.
29. Pyongyang Gold Lane Bowling Alley

A modern bowling alley that also offers karaoke, arcade games, and a café.
30. Pyongyang Railway Station

The city's main railway hub, with a distinctive Soviet-style architecture and a small museum inside.