Places / Asia / North Korea
Pyongyang
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The UK Foreign Office currently advises against travel to all or parts of North Korea. This guide is for a safer time. Check the latest travel advice.
At a glance
- Country
- North Korea
- Region
- Pyongyang
- Population
- 3 million
- Best time to go
- April to May, September to October
- Main airport
- Pyongyang Sunan International (FNJ)
- Coordinates
- 39.04°N, 125.76°E
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Overview
Pyongyang, North Korea's capital, sits on the Taedong River and was almost entirely rebuilt after the Korean War. Its wide avenues, monumental architecture and orderly apartment blocks were designed as a showcase of the state.
Tourism here has only ever been possible on closely guided group tours, and the country has been largely closed to Western visitors in recent years. This guide describes what such tours have typically included, for a time when visits may resume.
Things to see
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Photo: yeowatzup, CC BY 2.0 Juche Tower
A granite tower on the east bank of the Taedong, with a lift to a viewing platform above the river.
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Photo: Laika ac from USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 Kim Il Sung Square
The vast parade square facing the river, the setting for the country's mass events.
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Photo: Kristoferb ( talk ), CC BY-SA 3.0 Pyongyang Metro
One of the deepest metro systems in the world, with chandeliers and mosaics in its stations.
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Photo: Martin Cígler, CC BY-SA 3.0 Arch of Triumph
A monumental stone arch commemorating resistance to Japanese rule.
Things to do
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Photo: wjlee4284, CC BY 2.5 Taste Pyongyang cold noodles
Chilled buckwheat noodles in a clear broth are the city's best-known dish.
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Photo: 魯班, CC BY-SA 4.0 Day trip to Kaesong
Tours often continue south to the old royal city of Kaesong and its historic monuments.
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Photo: Wbfergus at English Wikipedia, Public domain Visit Panmunjom
The truce village on the demilitarised zone, seen from the northern side.
Where to stay
Yanggak Island
Group tours have commonly used the large hotel on this island in the Taedong.
Hotels in Yanggak IslandCentral Pyongyang
Some tours stay in hotels closer to the city centre and railway station.
Hotels in Central Pyongyang
Getting around
Visitors are accompanied by official guides at all times and travel by tour vehicle; independent exploration is not permitted.
Tours have historically arrived by flight or train from China, with all arrangements made through approved tour operators.
When to go
Spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are the most pleasant seasons. Summers are hot and humid with heavy rain, and winters are very cold.
Plan your trip to Pyongyang
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.