north korea tourist places

12 Things to Do in Pyongyang, North Korea

You don’t get a moment’s rest when you travel in North Korea – be ready for an intense trip of endless sightseeing and activities!

North Korea is not your typical travel destination. Everything is strictly controlled and you’ll be ushered from place to place by two tour guides who you must stick with at all times. You’ll have your entire itinerary planned out for you, often starting each day at 8 am and returning to the hotel late at night. Travelling in North Korea is certainly not a holiday as your itinerary will be totally jampacked.

Your time in North Korea will most likely be centred around its showcase capital, Pyongyang. You’ll do a lot of sightseeing here, with the occasional morning or afternoon trip out to places like the DMZ or Mount Myohyang.

Contrary to popular belief, there are actually a lot of things to do in Pyongyang. From monuments to museums, and funfairs to talent shows, this blog post will show you what you can expect to see during your time in North Korea’s capital city.

The key thing to bear in mind is that you won’t get to see the real North Korea. You’ll be ferried from place to place with zero opportunity for independent exploration. You’ll only see what they allow you to see, in what I believe is a very tightly controlled tourist route. These are, what I would call, showpieces of the regime.

Things to do in Pyongyang, North Korea

Visit kim il sung square.

Kim Il Sung Square is the main square of Pyongyang and is a sight not to be missed. When parades are on, it’s the place to be, otherwise, it’s the least busy city square in the world. We were there when wasn’t a parade; it was quite strange to visit an empty square and it felt a little post-apocalyptic.

Ride the Pyongyang Metro

At 110 metres underground, the Pyongyang metro is the deepest metro station in the world. Covered in propaganda, images of the Kim family, and with station names such as ‘Comrade’, ‘Glory’ and ‘Reunification’, riding Pyongyang’s metro is really quite an experience.

Before 2010, tourists in North Korea were only allowed to ride between two stations, giving rise to a conspiracy theory that the metro was purely for show and that the passengers were actors. We rode for 5 of the 16 stops during rush hour, where there were hundreds of citizens boarding the train. It seems unlikely that this rumour is true.

Go to the top of the Arch of Triumph

Pyongyang’s very own Arch of Triumph greeted us as we came out of the metro at Kaeson Station. It closely resembles the Arc De Triomphe in Paris, but, as our guide kept repeating, it’s the tallest Arch of Triumph in the world and is 11 metres taller than the Parisian one. I told her I was impressed.

There is an observation deck at the top of the Arch which you can go up to for 15RMB (about 2USD). At the top, you’ll be treated to impressive views of the surrounding area including Kim Il Sung Stadium, Moran Hill and the Ryugyong Hotel.

Visit Kaeson Funfair

The Kaeson Funfair – located near the Arch of Triumph – provided what I felt was the most genuine insight into life in North Korea. The funfair was the only place where we were allowed to wander around somewhat freely. Our guides let us mingle with the locals a little and stood guard along the pathways leading to the entry and exit points.

We were, however, told that we should skip all the queues and go straight onto any ride we wanted, because “we’re Western.” This annoyed me, as I didn’t feel that this presented a good view of us as Westerners to the citizens of North Korea. Perhaps they didn’t mind, but as a Brit, orderly queues are an essential part of my culture!

Visit Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun used to serve as the official residence of former Supreme Leader Kim Il Sung. His son, Kim Jong-Il, converted it into a huge mausoleum, where Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il are laid to rest. Their embalmed bodies are preserved inside climate-controlled glass sarcophagi for public viewing.

My visit to Kumsusan Palace of the Sun made me feel very tense, as we had to walk the hall in lines of four and were not to speak.

We had to bow three times to each leader, once at their feet, once at their left side, and once at their right. It was surreal to see real bodies laid on display in this way, and the number of guards watching our every move was extremely intimidating.

Check out Kim Il Sung’s family home

Nestled privately inside a tranquil park you’ll find Mangyondae Native House. This modest straw-thatched home is Kim Il Sung’s official birthplace and where he spent his childhood. He was born on April 15th, 1912, but in North Korea, this year is better known as Juche 1. Yes, the North Korean calendar year starts from Kim Il Sung’s birth.

Your visit to Mangyondae Native House will likely be shared with school groups eager to catch a glimpse inside the early years of their Eternal President. It is customary to lay flowers at the Kim Il Sung memorial plaque outside.

Visit Mansudae Hill

On top of Mansudae Hill sits two giant bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. It’s one of the most sacred sites in North Korea, and visitors must march solemnly toward the statues and bow to them to show respect.

Kim Il-sung – the one with his arm outstretched – was the original monument, unveiled in 1972 to celebrate the leader’s 60th birthday. Kim Jong-il’s statue was added after his death in 2011.

Visit the Monument to Party Founding

Utterly simple design yet undeniably socialist, Pyongyang’s version of the hammer and sickle comes with an extra paintbrush! Built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Worker’s Party of Korea (I wonder if there are any other political parties?), it is also flanked by two buildings on either side of the monument with communist slogans written in Korean.

The North Koreans have by now become such experts in building monuments that this has become one of their exports to the world. North Korean monument makers have been shipped to places like Angola to build structures in concrete or marble.

Explore the National Library

When we were told we were to be visiting the National Libary, I expected it to be quite boring, but it was actually extremely interesting. It gave us an insight into what Western literature North Koreans are exposed to, which turns out isn’t a lot, but they did have Harry Potter, Shakespeare’s works and Sherlock Holmes.

One of our tour guides who had been really quite stilted and unwilling to talk about her personal interests throughout most of the trip started to open up when I asked her if she’d read Harry Potter. Her face lit up and she said “it’s my favourite! In Chamber of Secrets where Harry sings Happy Birthday to himself – that makes me sad. And Hermione is so brave!” From then on, she was a lot more willing to answer my questions about life in North Korea – it seems that a good book brings people together everywhere in the world.

Watch a school talent show

Your North Korea tour will most likely take you to a local school in Pyongyang, where you’ll watch a talent show. The talent show was very impressive, where the kids put on performances with dance, singing and musical instruments. Apparently, many people in North Korea are very talented as they’re taught singing and dancing during primary school.

Eat a lot of kimchi

I couldn’t not include kimchi in this list – you’re in Korea! You’ll be served it with almost every meal so you don’t really have a choice.

In case you’re not sure, kimchi is a staple food in Korea. It’s a traditional dish of salted and fermented vegetables, usually cabbage or radish, seasoned with spring onions, garlic, ginger and more. I promise it’s much tastier than it sounds!

If you’re not a fan of kimchi, don’t worry – you’ll be very well-fed in North Korea and will have lots of choices.

Explore the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

The Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum is a large museum and exhibit dedicated to artefacts from the war. On arrival, you’ll be assigned a female military guide who will show you around the museum and present North Korea’s version of history.

The museum is filled with historical photography and video, expansive dioramas, remnant displays and otherwise incredible attention to detail. Before entering, you’ll see captured US Army helicopters, shot down US Army planes and even the infamous USS Pueblo, America’s ‘Spy Ship’ still held hostage by North Korea that you can board and inspect for yourself.

Further North Korea reading :

• How to visit North Korea as a tourist
• Read about my personal experience in North Korea
• Is it ethical to visit North Korea?

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

Similar Posts

My North Korea Travel Vlog (Video)

Is it Ethical to Visit North Korea?

How To Travel to North Korea as a Tourist

Dandong: The Chinese City on the Edge of North Korea

My North Korea Travel Experience – What’s It Really Like?

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Must-see attractions in Pyongyang

Tower of the Juche Idea

This tower honours the North Korean philosophy of Juche and was unveiled to mark President Kim Il-sung's 70th birthday in 1982. Indeed, the tower is made…

Monument to the Foundation of the Workers' Party

This startlingly bombastic monument has starred on the cover of more books about North Korea than almost any other. The three hands portrayed represent…

Mansudae Grand Monument

Every itinerary includes an homage to these vast bronze statues of the smiling Great Leader and Dear Leader, the latter in his trademark parka. The first…

Kim Il-sung Square

Pyongyang’s central square is where North Korea’s massive military parades normally take place. The plaza is ringed by austere-looking buildings: most…

Pyongyang Metro

Visiting the impressive Pyongyang metro is definitely a highlight of the capital. The network, which is made up of two lines, has a simultaneous function…

Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

Perhaps the most interesting museum in Pyongyang, this mouthful of an institution opened its current home in 2013 to mark the 60th anniversary of the end…

Triumphal Arch

Your guides will tell you proudly that the Triumphal Arch is 6m higher than its cousin in Paris, making it the largest of its kind in the world. The arch…

Chollima Statue

This impressive statue portrays Chollima, the Korean Pegasus. It’s an interesting example of how the North Korean state has incorporated traditional…

The USS Pueblo is a US surveillance vessel that was seized by the North Koreans off the east coast of Korea in January 1968, during a heightening of…

Monument to the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War 1950–53

This impressive monument, which was unveiled in 1993 to mark the 40th anniversary of the end of the Korean War, now forms part of the display of the…

Kim Il-sung Mural

This massive mural depicts the hypothetical scene of the joyful masses celebrating Kim Il-sung's arrival in Pyongyang, even though the event wasn't quite…

Tower of Immortality

The writing on this tower, through the base of which traffic drives, pledges that the 'Great Leader Kim Il-sung and the Dear Leader Kim Jong-il will…

This is Pyongyang’s top recreation ground: couples wander, families picnic and there are people playing guitars and sometimes even dancing in an…

Tomb of Tan'gun

History continues to evolve in North Korea, with new revolutionary discoveries being made every year. While the government announced in 1993 that its…

Kumsusan Memorial Palace of the Sun

Kim Il-sung’s residence during his lifetime, the Kumsusan Palace remained so after his death. North Koreans come here en masse to pay their respects to…

Pyongyang Film Studios

Several films a year are churned out by the country’s main film studios in the suburbs of Pyongyang. The two main focuses are predictably the anti…

Three Revolutions Exhibition

A surreal, enormous exhibition complex, North Korea’s answer to Florida’s Epcot theme park details the ‘three revolutions’ Kim Il-sung brought about in…

Grand People's Study House

This impressive building on Kim Il-sung Sq is the country’s largest library and centre of Juche studies, where any North Korean over 17 can come for free…

Ryugyong Hotel

Three decades after construction began on this extraordinary hotel in 1987, it still has not been completed. Planned as a prestige project but abandoned…

Korean Revolution Museum

Despite the museum’s rather misleading name, its main function is to document the death of Kim Il-sung (including a film of the extraordinary public…

Kim Il-sung's Birthplace

The suburb of Mangyongdae houses the place of Kim Il-sung’s birth, a typical Korean peasant house with a thatched roof and a block of living rooms, as…

Party Founding Museum

Located on the southern slope of Haebang Hill is this museum that originally housed the Central Committee of the Korean Workers’ Party, as well as Kim Il…

Mangyongdae Funfair

After the relentless propaganda, you can relax with some day trippers from the capital at the Mangyongdae Funfair, a pleasant oasis built around the base…

Liberation Tower

This stone column topped with a red star commemorates the Soviet liberation of Pyongyang from Japanese rule in 1945. Built in 1947, it is thoroughly…

Mangyongdae Revolutionary Museum

The Mangyongdae Revolutionary Museum, located near Kim Il-sung's birthplace, continues the theme of the Great Leader's childhood and makes the point that…

May Day Stadium

The largest stadium in the world, the May Day Stadium seats an incredible 114,000 people. It's most famous as the home of the impressive feat of North…

Taedong Gate

This was the eastern gate of the ancient walled city of Pyongyang, built in the 6th century to defend the entrance to the inner fortress from the Taedong…

Korean National Art Gallery

This large gallery on Kim Il-sung Square is worth a visit to see the postwar socialist-realist art collection. There are 14 rooms of prewar Korean art…

Metro Museum

The Metro Museum details the Great and Dear Leaders' roles in the construction of the Pyongyang metro in detail, although technical information beyond…

Chilsong Gate

Located inside what is today Pyongyang's main park, the Chilsong Gate was once the northern entrance to the original walled city of Pyongyang and dates…

Korean Central History Museum

The Korean Central History Museum is all rather predictable – a large number of exhibits about the North's struggle against imperialism and oppression.

Sino-Korean Friendship Tower

This television tower was built as a gift from the Chinese to the DRPK. It's possible to take the lift to the top and have a drink at the small cafe.

Potong Gate

The western gate of the original walled city of Pyongyang dates from the 6th century, but was rebuilt in the 15th century and then again in 1955.

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in North Korea

Things to do in north korea.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Demilitarized Zone

2. Tower of the Juche Idea

3. Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

4. Geumsusan Memorial Palace

5. Kim Il-sung Square

6. Mansudae Grand Monument

7. The State Circus

8. Kim Il Sung Stadium

9. Concrete Wall

10. Triumphal Arch

11. Masikryong Ski Resort

12. Tanjun Mausoleum

13. Rungrado May Day Stadium

14. Monument to the Korean Workers Party

15. Mount Kumgang

16. Daedong River (Taedong River)

17. Grand People's Study House

18. Munsu Water Park

19. Pyongyang Metro

20. Paektusan

21. Mansudae Art Studio Gallery

22. Koryo Museum

23. Koguryo Tombs

24. International Friendship Exhibition

25. Chollima Statue

26. Tomb of King Kongmin

27. Kaeson Youth Park

28. Kwangbok Department Store

29. Pohyonsa

30. Mount Myohyang

What travellers are saying.

Everything You Need to Know About Traveling to North Korea

Are you thinking of traveling to North Korea but unsure of how to make it happen? Start by reading this North Korea travel guide.

I’ve visited North Korea, or officially, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) twice: once in 2015 ( Pyongyang  / DMZ + Kaesong / Mount Kumgang /  Wonsan ) and once in 2018 (Rason). However, I rarely brag about visiting North Korea because it isn’t a place I would encourage just anyone to visit. It’s not relaxing or enjoyable. It’s…mentally challenging, to say the least.

You should not travel to North Korea unless you’re willing to consider a perspective different from what mainstream western media tells you. Your experience of North Korea hinges on how you frame it, and it’s vital that you go with an open mind. In fact, I believe I had an easier time digesting and understanding my North Korea travel experiences  because of my East Asian heritage, but still I’m struggling to put them all in words.

People who learn that I’ve traveled to North Korea  always  ask the same questions about how they can do it too, so I finally decided to write this guide to answer all the questions (and bust all the myths). If there’s something you want to know that’s not mentioned here, please leave a comment and I’ll reply!

Can anyone travel to North Korea?

There’s a misconception that it’s almost impossible to visit North Korea when in fact, almost anyone can go to North Korea (except South Korean citizens). Even US citizens were previously able to go but following the high-profile case of Otto Warmbier, the US Department of State has for now  banned citizens from traveling to North Korea .

While almost anyone can visit North Korea for tourism, you do not get to go around North Korea freely. You must join a tour, and only travel agencies approved by the North Korean government can organize tours to North Korea. Many of these tours have itineraries covering the same state-designated destinations and attractions.

Throughout your visit, you will be accompanied by at least two North Korean guides from the state-owned tourism bureaus such as KITC (Korea International Travel Company). They are the only North Koreans you’ll interact with extensively for the entire length of your stay.

But you’re not allowed to take photos, right?

Photography is definitely allowed in North Korea, as you can see from this post and others on this site. There are indeed some restrictions: you’re not allowed to take photos of military buildings and vehicles, soldiers in uniform, buildings under construction, or monuments undergoing maintenance. You will be cautioned not to crop any photos of the Great Leader (Kim Il Sung) or Dear Leader (Kim Jong Il). If you try to take a photo when it’s prohibited, your guides will stop you.

The North Korean government is extremely conscious of its image, and it’s understandable if you think about it. After all, photos of North Korea are often used by western media to paint the country in a negative light. The guides I’ve met know all too well how their country is perceived, and that likely reinforces what they’ve learned: to have great pride in what they’ve been able to achieve despite a lack of resources.

Is it very expensive to visit North Korea?

I find that North Korea tour costs are similar to any group adventure tour with accommodation, transport, and meals included. Expect a 5-night tour to cost around 1,200-1,700 euro with return Beijing-Pyongyang flights (entry/exit by rail should be cheaper). This does not include drinking water or tips and gratuities.

When choosing from North Korea travel operators, it’s more important to check their reputation and see what unique itineraries they offer.

Which tour operators would you recommend?

As with other East Asian countries, mutual trust and relationships are deeply rooted in the culture and a trusted North Korea tour company/agent will have latitude to offer more special tours. Koryo Tours and Juche Travel both have a good track record and in-depth knowledge to help you plan your trip (I’m not affiliated with either company).

Your North Korea tour company should guide you through the logistics of your trip, handle visa processing for you, and inform you on all the latest rules and regulations. That brings us to the most important question:

Is it safe to travel to North Korea?

You’re always looked after by guides, food is clean and tasty, and you’re unlikely to become a victim of crime. So yes, it’s safe to travel to North Korea, as long as you follow the rules.

I know what you’re thinking: that the North Korean tourism rules are meant to restrict tourists’ freedom and paint a false picture of the country. Whether you agree with this or not, you need to respect the rules and local laws of any place you visit. Some North Korea tourism rules include:

• Camera lenses beyond a certain zoom level are not allowed.
• Your passport will be kept by your guides upon arrival and returned at departure.
• All devices (mobile phones, cameras, laptops) will be inspected upon entry and exit to/from North Korea. Make sure your phone does not contain any religious or politically sensitive content (e.g. remove Bible apps, existing photos, etc.)
• You must pay respects when visiting statues of North Korea’s leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il, or other national monuments.
• Be respectful to guides. Do not ask provocative questions or argue against their narrative.
• You are allowed to talk to locals, but they are very wary of foreigners and most do not speak English or other foreign languages.
• Do not bring any magazines or religious material into North Korea.
• Most North Korea tour companies will allow you to blog about your experience, but journalists are not allowed to visit as tourists or sell stories/images to news publications unless you receive special permission.

Not following the rules means you risk getting yourself, the tour company, and possibly even your North Korean guides in trouble. However, as long as you play by the rules, you’ll be able to glean quite a bit of knowledge beyond what you’re shown or told.

Isn’t it unethical to support the North Korean regime through our tourism?

Discussion about safety when traveling to North Korea inevitably lead to moral concerns about supporting the DPRK regime through tourism. Even if you disagree with how the country is governed, visiting in person is the best way to understand North Korea’s nuances and complexities. Think of it this way: your moral obligation, if any, is to learn as much as possible to make it worth the trip.

Reading up on a place before visiting is always a plus, but for travel to North Korea it’s absolutely essential. I’d recommend you go beyond US news articles and add the following 8 books to your reading list. Want more? Check out this extensive selection of books about North Korea .

Seeing Cherry Blossoms in Korea: One Spring Day in Jinhae

Certain “bestsellers” have been excluded from this list as they’re known to be overly dramatized or disrespect/risk the safety of ordinary people in North Korea. For news and analysis, NK News and 38 North are good places to start (but are by no means the only sources).

What will I get to see and experience in North Korea?

Lots of people sneer at North Korea tours, claiming that everything you’ll see is staged or even that all the people in the city are actors. While you’ll come across scenes that are more of performances, I can reassure you the people and buildings are real.

A typical first-time visit to North Korea will includes standard sights in Pyongyang, the DMZ, Kaesong, and some UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the tombs of ancient Korean kings.

How much do things cost in North Korea?

While most North Korea tours include accommodation and three meals a day, you’re expected to buy your own bottled water, snacks, and any out-of-pocket expenses such as riding the Pyongyang tram. Make sure you bring enough extra cash for souvenirs and tips.

The official exchange rate when I visited was US$1 : 100 North Korean won, but if you get to shop at a Pyongyang department store  you’ll find a far more favorable exchange rate.

Staying connected in North Korea

[hygge_blog title=”More on North Korea” posts=”4″ style=”widget-list” tag=”dprk” sort_by=”rand” sort_order=”DESC” ads=”0″]

If you haven’t lived in the pre-Internet age, be prepared to feel extremely isolated in North Korea as most tourists will not have any connectivity to the rest of the world. Although data SIM cards are available, they’re prohibitively expensive . If you have to call home, you can make international calls from the lobby at hotels like Yanggakdo Hotel. When I visited in 2015, calls cost US$5/minute.

Another cool activity is to send home postcards that you’ve purchased at souvenir shops. North Korean postal services will mail out your postcards to any international address, with the exception of some countries (definitely not the US or South Korea). It can take weeks or months to get delivered, but it’ll be a great gift when your friends receive it.

What else would you like to know about visiting North Korea? 

[hygge_ad_widget type=”wide”]

Join us on the wild side.

You know the reality: travel is messy, spontaneous, and filled with wacky episodes (ever force-stuffed a 12" pizza into a daypack so you could get on the subway?)

Get our free checklists, planners, travel deals, stories — and be part of our wildly curious community.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

13 Must-Visit Places in Pyongyang

By Zoe Stephens

Exploring Pyongyang; A completely modernised capital city with revolutionary sites, memorials, cafes, bars, wide boulevards, parks, towering blocks of flats, and much more.

What are the 13 places you must-visit in Pyongyang?

Pyongyang is unique in many ways. Once the ancient capital of Korea, Pyongyang remains the capital of modern North Korea. After the Korean War and the destruction it caused throughout the city, leaving pretty much nothing left, Pyongyang had a big task ahead of itself.

The result of which is what we see today; A completely modernised Pyongyang with revolutionary sites, memorials, cafes, bars, wide boulevards, parks, towering blocks of flats, and much more.

So here’s our picks of the top 13 things to do and see in Pyongyang that you may or may not have thought of before, or you may or may not have heard of before. 

Note: This is not necessarily your conventional list of typical sites you will visit on a trip to North Korea (although some of them are). If there is something on this list you particularly wish to visit then make sure to talk with us! 

Kim Il Sung Square

Perhaps the second most recognisable place in Pyongyang, Kim Il Sung Square is often featured in the media as it is where military parades take place. In the background, you can see the large portraits of the two leaders mounted on the Grand People’s Study House (see below) building. No trip to Pyongyang is complete without a walk around Kim Il Sung Square

Mansudae Grand Monuments 

Once a topic in the media of tourists being forced to go here, it’s actually quite the opposite. This is one of the most sacred places for North Koreans and if you don’t want to go here to pay your respects then they certainly will not force you into it. In fact, you’re very welcome to remain on the bus if you wish. 

Nevertheless, this monument stands tall on the Pyongyang skyline and is one of the most recognisable places in North Korea, showing the large bronze statues of both Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. 

Grand People’s Study House

With some of the most magnificent architecture in the DPRK, the Grand People’s Study House is a must-see.

This is the national library of North Korea and it houses thousands of both Korean and foreign books. Students and older people come here to study, and they also host free language classes open to everyone. 

Juche Tower 

With 360 degree views of Pyongyang, you can’t go wrong with the Juche Tower - especially on a clear day.

Recent news had it that tourists were not allowed to take photos from the top anymore. We don’t know if this will be a permanent or temporary rule, but photos or not, it’s worth the journey to the top! 

Arch of Triumph 

The North Korean Arch of Triumph (개선문 | 凱旋門) is a 60-meter stone archway built to commemorate the role of President Kim Il Sung in the ‘Anti-Japanese Armed Struggle’ and the liberation of Korea from Japanese colonial rule in 1945.

It’s actually taller than the one in Paris, and from the top offers some more great views of Pyongyang. 

You’re likely to drive past this a few times, so don’t worry if you don’t actually get to get off the bus to take pictures. 

Party Foundation Monument 

Another must-see monument full of history and symbolism, the Party Foundation monument is made up of a massive granite hammer, sickle and calligraphy brush — symbols of the Workers Party of Korea (WPK). The hammer and sickle symbolize the worker and farmers of ‘traditional’ communist ideology, while the calligraphy brush represents the intellectual class.

Behind this monument is also an art gallery you can choose to visit. 

May Day Stadium 

The largest stadium in the world - you don’t need much more reason to go. Except if you’re lucky enough to go during the times when the Mass Games is on, since this is where the games are held.

You can ask us to book a tour around the stadium, but this must be done as extra as it is not usually included in the itinerary. 

Mangyongdae Funfair

One of the best times to have fun with the Koreans when they’re relaxed and having a break - plus, it’s a funfair! What’s not to love. Feel free to walk around the funfair or have a go on the rides (if you’re brave enough!). 

Tip: If you are brave enough to go on some of the big rides, you can get some killer views of Pyongyang!

The USS Pueblo is an American espionage vessel, seized by North Korean military forces off the east coast city of  Wonsan  on 23rd January 1968.

Now, the USS Pueblo is moored next to the  Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum (see below), on the  Potong River,  in central Pyongyang.

A trip to the war museum allows you to go aboard the USS Pueblo and explore the various rooms inside, as well as getting an explanation from the local guide. 

Here, you can then visit… 

Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum 

One of the most impressive buildings in the DPRK, a tour around this place will leave you very speechless. Unfortunately, no photos are allowed inside.

Here, you can get a good understanding of North Korea’s side of history and see the Korean War through their eyes. 

Pyongyang Metro 

Is it real? Is it fake? See it for yourself! 

Mansudae Art Studio 

The Mansudae Art Studio is a major art production centre and exhibition located in  Pyongyang , North Korea. It is estimated to be one of the world’s biggest art producers — if not the biggest.

On a trip here, you can have a. Look around the studios and see some North Korean art. You may be lucky enough to see some artists at work! 

Meari Shooting Range

A bit of fun in the capital!

Challenge your fellow travellers or North Korea tour guides to a shoot-out (with some real guns) or have a go on the electronic games machines - or simply watch your comrades from the viewing seats making fools of themselves trying to hit targets! 

Koryo Tours North Korea Tours

Zoe Stephens

Zoe is the marketing manager and a tour leader at koryo tours..

Her love of meeting new people and exploring new cultures has led her to study several languages including German, Japanese, and Chinese. Having lived in several different countries across 4 continents, she often writes about languages and culture in her blogs and is very active on social media. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was 'stuck' in Tonga for 1.5 years after a weekend away. Ask her for some stories! 

🎥  Vlogs on North Korea 🎙  Discover North Korea Podcast ➤  Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Twitter/X   ✈ Tonga

Related articles

A boggy adventure in mongolia.

Should I return to the comfort of my Ger in Hovd or continue my journey onwards?

Turn Back the Clock Thursday - The Ryugyong Hotel

The Ryugyong Hotel Then and Now

Just How Powerful IS the North Korean Passport? (2021)

North Korean Passport

Who is Rudaki, Singer, Musician, and Poet?

Take a look at the life of this Persian legend, and you can see why he is so revered in Tajikistan and further afield. 

Mongolia Diaries 2: A Nostalgic Journey to a Glacier

Back then, I could only dream of touching a glacier; now it's part of my life. 

14 Interesting North Korea Mass Games Facts

You may have heard a lot about the mass games in North Korea, but how much do you really know about this incredible annual performance of over 100,000 people?  Here are 14 interesting Mass Games facts you probably didn’t know from the experts. 

What is REAL Mongolian Beef? (2021)

Tour leader Rich who spends half of his year in Mongolia tells us what real Mongolian beef is, the history of Mongolian beef, and how to cook it!

10 Quick Facts About Bhutan

Facts About Bhutan

11 Reasons to Visit Vanuatu, The Happiest Country in the WORLD?

There are almost too many reasons to travel to Vanuatu...

Flags of the World | Mozambique Flag

Mozambique flag

What is a North Korean City Really Like?

Life inside a North Korean city

Visa for... How to Get a Tajikistan Visa

Tajikistan Visa

Visa for... How to Get a Mongolia Visa

Mongolia Visa

Flags of the World: Syrian Flag

Syrian Flag

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

• Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Pyongyang Marathon
• Turkmenistan
• Cultural Engagement
• Country profile
• Terms & conditions
• Why choose Koryo

[email protected] | + 86 10 6416 7544 Room A409, Jucai Building. No. 76 Caoyuan Hutong. Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100027, PR China

中国北京市东城区草园胡同76号聚才大厦A 座409 室, 邮编：100027 Download contact card

Not registered yet? Register now

Trouble logging in? Reset password

* All fields are mandatory

Got an account already? Let me log in

• Tours  > 
• Destinations  > 
• Things to do in Asia  > 
• Things to do in North Korea

Now you can find, compare, and share trips from 1,000+ operators and expert trip planners. Unlike most travel agencies and websites that only show options from large companies that pay big commissions, we show you all the options we can gather, and we’re adding more all the time. We want you to have all the available information to find your perfect trip, no matter who it’s with. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend getaway or a multi-country expedition, you can find it on Travelstride. About us.

...to foster a community connecting travelers to wonderful places, people, & experiences. Learn more.

Best Things to Do in North Korea

North korea, top north korea experiences.

• Seeing sights that few Westerners get to view
• Developing cross-cultural relationships with your guides and gaining possible insights into North Korean life
• Experiencing perhaps brief but telling interactions with some local people
• Visiting the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)  
• Marveling at mountain scenery and weirdly shaped rock formations
• Touring a country where little has changed for decades

Unlock Community Benefits

• Save favorite trips and itineraries
• Get insider insights
• Receive personalized recommendations ...and much more

Top North Korea Tours See all

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top North Korea Travel Packages

North korea tours reviews & ratings.

Travelstride featured in

Top North Korea Tour Companies

• Intrepid Travel Reviews
• Explore! Reviews
• Geckos Adventures Reviews
• Air by Pleasant Reviews
• Urban Adventures Reviews

Practicalities & Logistics

Useful links.

• North Korea Weather Overview: Live Weather, Forecasts, and Averages
• Additional Information About North Korea

Visa Information

Related categories.

• China tours
• Hiking & Walking tours
• History tours
• Cultural tours
• South Korea tours
• Small Group tours

Why Travelstride

Click to send a new magic link to your inbox.

Welcome back!

By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy  and  Terms of Use

• Bookmark trips you like
• Share with your travel companions
• Track price changes
• Access private discounts on trips you save

TripFinder is a member-only feature. Don’t worry, it’s free!

With a membership you:

• Save up to $700 per person!*
• Access private deals and offers
• See personalized trip recommendations
• Save favorite trips

Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.

With your free membership you:

• Inspirations
• North America
• South America

10 Places to Visit in North Korea

Travelling around the globe has never resulted in disappointment for me. I always end up eager to travel even more. I guess the more you travel around the world the better you get to appreciate the diversity in culture, traditions and nature.

Simply put, North Korea  is just amazing. A visit to this mysterious country is way more remarkable than one would imagine it would be. Many people tend to give this Asiatic country a wide berth and they just don’t know what they are missing!

In this post, I have highlighted just 10 great places you should visit in North Korea  and they are listed in no particular order.

Quick Navigation

1. The Pyongyang Metro

Pyongyang is the capital city of North Korea and the biggest city in the country. When you get to this city, the first thing that will strike you is the Pyongyang Metro . This incredulous transport network that consists two lines is all underground. Apparently, the underground grid is not only designed for transportation purposes but it is also a nuclear bunker – yes, that’s right, a bomb shelter! The underground stations have an eerie feeling and the clearly visible blast doors give one the feeling of being in a futuristic sci-fi movie.

2. The Juche Tower

Just off the Juche Tower Street in Pyongyang stands this tall magnificent monument. The imposing tower is a granite symbol representing the political ideologies that were introduced by Kim II-Sung. At the tower, you will often find other tourists taking in the imposing power of the monument. You can take an elevator to the top of the tower from which you will be able to see a great deal of Pyongyang from a vantage point. This is an ideal place to take beautiful photo shots of the capital city. Any visitor to North Korea should visit this iconic symbol and at least take a photo as a true testament of visiting North Korea.

3. Mangyongdae

Just 8km from the great Pyongyang city is Mangyongdae. This is a tranquil neighbourhood that is set on a hill within the Mangyongdae-guyok neighbourhood. This region is famous and very important for North Koreans. This is where Kim II-Sung – founding president of North Korea – was born. In Mangyongdae visitors are able to enjoy several top attractions including the Mangyongdae Funfair, the Children’s palace and the Mangyondae Revolutionary Museum

4. The Mangyongdae funfair

This is a beautiful oasis at the foot of the Song Hill that is a popular place for the city dwellers to visit and unwind. Here you can experience a terrifying roller coaster ride on a harmless-looking North Korean roller coaster fittingly named the Mad Mouse.

5. T he Mangyongdae Children’s Palace

While at Mangyongdae do not forget to venture into the Children’s palace. This is a hub for all kinds of extracurricular activities performed by the children and youth of North Korea. You are bound to be entertained by youth skilled in all kinds of art from gymnasts, musicians, martial arts experts, and other assorted fields. In the main auditorium, you can enjoy a breathtaking performance from well-choreographed regimented youth.

6. The Mangyongdae Revolutionary Museum

Finally within Mangyongdae, one should make a point to tour the Mangyongdae Revolutionary Museum. This is an important establishment for the people of North Korea as it commemorates the childhood of the great leader Kim II-Sung. A major theme for the museum is highlighting the fact that the iconic leader and all his family members were patriotic revolutionaries who came from very humble beginnings.

7. Rungrado 1st of May Day Stadium

The first time one hears this name one might think that this is a special national day or something; it is difficult to expect this to be the name of a stadium, and not just your everyday stadium, a colossal stadium that currently ranks as the largest stadium in the world! This massive structure, also within Pyongyang, has a capacity of 114,000 people and it sits on a substantial 20.7 hectares. The stadium is used for all kinds of events including football matches however, the highlight event hosted in this mammoth stadium is the Arirang Festival. The Arirang Festival is a world-renowned event that features the most spectacular grand mass gymnastics and artistic performances.

8. T he Paektu Mountain and the Changbai Range

At the border of North Korea and China, there are awesome sights for anyone who appreciates scenic beauty and natural land formations. Here you can take in the lofty Paektu Mountain that is the highest mountain in the Changbai Range. This active volcanic mountain boasts a height of 9,003 ft. At the top of this awe-inspiring mountain is a large crater lake, the Paekdusan Lake. The lake is referred to as the mountain lake by the Korean people. The lake has significant mythical importance for the North Koreans and it is even considering as the country’s spiritual home.  From the Paektu Mountain flows a natural spring called the Baekdu Spa. Other places of interest around the ranges include hot water springs, waterfalls, and cairns.

9. Myohyang – San

The Myohyang- San is a creepy but fascinating place to visit while in North Korea. There are all kinds of mystic shapes and strange fragrances around the mountain. The mountain is regarded as a sacred ground as it is said to be the home of King Tahun who is the ancestor of all Korean people. Apart from the mystic allure of the mountain, here you can enjoy hiking and visiting attraction sites such as the Pohyon temple, the Kumgang hermitage, the Ryongmun cavern, and the Sangwon hermitage.  At Myongyang you can also visit the International Friendship Exhibition which is popular as the largest treasure house that exhibits presents received by past North Korean leaders.

10. The Okryugwan Restaurant

Finally, like many other top global tourist destinations, North Korea is one place you should visit if only to sample their tasty delicacies. The Okryugwan Restaurant is just the right place where you can get all kinds of North Korean dishes. The restaurant is devoting towards providing its patrons with excellent traditional foods.  Once you get into the Okryugwan restaurant, you will be promptly and courteously received by polka dot clad waitresses flashing shy smiles.  The restaurant’s menu boasts all kinds of expertly cooked Korean cuisines. A cold noodles tray – known as Naung-myon, is one of the popular dishes served. The dish consists of rice noodles topped with chicken slices, a boiled egg, cucumber, red chillies, mustard and vinegar.  Other dishes include kimchi – a dish made of veggies alongside seasonings, tofu, seafood, and many kinds of meat.

What are the other places worth a visit in North Korea?

Related post, what is thailand known for, what is a tuk tuk.

• How to Become an Arborist

Recent Posts

6 villages in the uk you have to visit, top 10 tips to travel to north korea post pandemic, top 10 isla grande activities for the adventure lover, 6 loneliest places on earth.

Our   Story

Rocky road travel, rocky road   blog, all destinations, afghanistan, afghanistan tours, mauritania tours, south sudan, south sudan tours, socotra tours, syria tours, pakistan tours.

7 best things to do in North Korea

Highlights of taking a tour in north korea.

North Korea is a very under-visited country – so much so that many people are not even aware that you can actually visit. Well, we’re here to tell you that you can – and, as experts on tours to North Korea, we’ve got a pretty good idea of what you should see and do when you’re there!

Here’s our rundown on the 7 best things to do in North Korea.

1. The many, many sights of Pyongyang

We could write an article on Pyongyang landmarks alone. The Mansudae Grand Monument; the Grand People’s Study House; Kim Il Sung Square; the Pyongyang Metro; the Arch of Triumph; May Day Stadium ; the Foreign Language Bookstore & the wealth of fantastic restaurants. You won’t be surprised to hear that all tours to North Korea will of course include Pyongyang!

2. Mount Myohyang and the International Friendship Exhibition

A trip worth it just for the stunning mountain scenery of Mount Myohyang. The region also boasts the singular International Friendship Exhibition, wherein you’ll find a cornucopia of gifts offered to the two elder Kims during their tenures as leaders of North Korea.

3. Mount Kumgang

Some of the DPRK’s most spectacular natural scenery can be found at this wondrous mountain in the east of the country. The region boasts the breath-taking Kuryong Falls – best visited in the autumn to make the most of its psychedelic and variegated treescape.

Think ‘North Korea’ and you’re probably not thinking of a happening beach scene. That’s where you’d be wrong! The east-coast resort of Wonsan boasts beautiful beaches, delectable seafood and a whole host of locals hanging out and soaking up the sun. Essential for a summertime trip to the country!

Read our Wonsan in the Summer blog for more!

5. The Rason SEZ

North Korea’s sole special economic zone – Rason is similar to Hong Kong and China (it’s an imperfect analogy, but for our purposes it’ll do). Rason is the only place where ‘capitalism’ is allowed in North Korea. Here you’ll be able to open a bank account, spend North Korean won in the local markets, and even gamble in a casino!

No visit to North Korea would be complete without getting the North’s perspective on the world’s most tense border. Luckily, Panmunjom (the border village) is only around three hours from Pyongyang, and is absolutely worth the trip! After your guided tour – wherein your guide will be a genuine KPA soldier – you’ll be able to get a photo with your guide (the only place in the country you can get a picture with a soldier!).

A traditional North Korean city that is a common stopping-off point for tourists on their way to the DMZ, in Sariwon you’ll be able to hike to the top of a hill overlooking folklore street, dress up in traditional Korean clothes, try the unique fermented rice drink of makgeolli, and eat the Korean delicacies of ginseng-stuffed chicken and dog soup!

This, of course, is hardly an exhaustive list of all the things you can do in North Korea. See this fascinating country for yourself, start planning your tour with us today!

You Might Also Like

Is There a Homestay in North Korea?

Newspapers in North Korea

Top 5 things to do in Nampo

Wonsan in the Summer

What Does DPRK Mean?

Visiting Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

📞 +491635158517 ✉️ [email protected]

Destinations

• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Papua New Guinea
• South Sudan
• Agents & Partners
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Sustainability
• Travel Insurance

Subscribe To Our   Newsletter

Keep in touch with the latest news and info on our unique destinations.

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

Top North Korea Attractions

Things to do in north korea.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Demilitarized Zone

2. Tower of the Juche Idea

3. Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum

4. Geumsusan Memorial Palace

5. Kim Il-sung Square

6. Mansudae Grand Monument

7. The State Circus

8. Kim Il Sung Stadium

9. Concrete Wall

10. Triumphal Arch

11. Masikryong Ski Resort

12. Tanjun Mausoleum

13. Rungrado May Day Stadium

14. Monument to the Korean Workers Party

15. Mount Kumgang

16. Daedong River (Taedong River)

17. Grand People's Study House

18. Munsu Water Park

19. Pyongyang Metro

20. Paektusan

21. Mansudae Art Studio Gallery

22. Koryo Museum

23. Koguryo Tombs

24. International Friendship Exhibition

25. Chollima Statue

26. Tomb of King Kongmin

27. Kaeson Youth Park

28. Kwangbok Department Store

29. Pohyonsa

30. Mount Myohyang

What travelers are saying.

North Korea Tourist Attractions

Get swept away with these best places to visit in North Korea

Get the Best Travel Deals by Experts

Our CRM team analysis your requirements and assign to destination expert. Assignment happen as soon as possible on best effort basis.

CRM team sends first response to you which includes advisors contact details and response time etc.

Sales advisor gives quotation to you with in 4 hrs for FIT (1-10 people) 24 hrs for group (more then 10 people)

Note: We work from mon - fri 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

North Korea is an enigmatic tourist destination that offers unfamiliar territories to explore. This majestic country boasts cultural heritage and North Korea tourist attractions , making it more fascinating to tourists. North Korea has a rich historical and cultural significance dating back thousands of years. North Korea never fails to offer a glimpse into its interesting past, from Koguryo Tombs to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun. You can even immerse yourself in traditional Korean culture by watching colorful mass performances and experiencing customs & traditions. The enriched culture of this country is one of the North Korea attractions . Besides being a secretive country, North Korea is home to unparalleled landscapes. These breathtaking landscapes allow you to make your social feed colorful and vibrant. Mount Paektu is an active volcano, which is one of the surreal North Korea tourist spots . It has the highest peak on the Korean Peninsula. It draws the attention of many travelers who loves to hike. Moreover, nature enthusiasts can also marvel at the scenic Myohyang Mountains, pristine Kumgangsan, and the beautiful Lake Chon. Nature is itself one of the stunning North Korea tourist attractions that offer travelers an opportunity to explore and admire the beauty of nature.   North Korea’s architecture is another marvelous brilliance that adds charm and grandeur to the country’s style. The highlight of North Korea’s architectural excellence is the iconic Ryugyong Hotel. This massive pyramid-shaped formation is one of the famous North Korea attractions . Other unique towering architectures are The Juche Tower and the Arch of Triumph, which are notable landmarks of North Korea. These remarkable architectures commemorate North Korea’s ideology and national achievements. These architectural marvels offer tourists an insight into the country’s emphasis on self-reliance. One of the most iconic North Korea tourist places is the Grand Monument on Mansu Hill. It has two 20m-long bronze statues of Kim II Sung and Kim Jong II. Many tourists visit here to learn about the history of this place. North Korea boasts some beautiful beaches. The country’s Pacific coastline is lined with many beautiful beaches. These beaches are one of the best places to visit in North Korea if you want to have a quaint vacation. The long stretches of sand, dramatic cliffs, rock outlets, and abundance of nature are what make a beach-lover happy. For a tranquil experience, you should not miss out on visiting Lake Sijung. This lake is a perfect place to rejuvenate your soul and relax. North Korea may have not been on the list of travelers yet, but it has the potential to charm every traveler across the globe. If you want to visit this unique country for its off-the-beaten experiences, take the help of Dook International . We have attractive North Korea tour packages that you can customize as per your travel needs. Our tour packages offer exciting experiences and North Korea tourist places to visit for a fulfilling vacation. So, plan a holiday in North Korea with Dook.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in North Korea

Geumsusan Taeyang Gungjeon

The Kumsusan Palace of the Sun formerly the Kumsusan Memorial Palace and sometimes referred to as the Kim Il-sung Mausoleum is a building near the northeast corner of the city of Pyongyang that serves as the mausoleum for Kim Il-sung the founder of North Korea and for his son Kim Jong-il both posthumously designated as eternal leaders of North Korea. The palace was built in 1976 as the Kumsusan Assembly Hall and served as Kim Il-sungs official residence. Following the elder Kims death in 1994 Kim Jong-il had the building renovated and transformed into his fathers mausoleum. It is believed that the conversion cost at least 100 million. Some sources put the figure as high as 900 million. Inside the palace Kim Il-sungs embalmed body lies inside a clear glass sarcophagus. His head rests on a Korean-style pillow and he is covered by the flag of the Workers Party of Korea. Kim Jong-il is now on display in a room close to his fathers remains and positioned in a very similar way. At 115000 square feet Kumsusan is the largest mausoleum dedicated to a Communist leader and the only one to house the remains of multiple people.

Workers' Party Foundation Monument

Kim Il Sung Square

Grand People's Study House

National Martyrs Cemetery

Mansudae Fountain Park

Juche Tower

Things to do in north korea.

Do what makes you happy

Latest Blogs

28 Best Things to Do in Baku Azerbaijan

Apr 19, 2024

Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan This beautiful city is located on the shores of the Caspian...

10 Most Enchanting Cities in Tajikistan to Visit

Apr 18, 2024

Tajikistan is the hidden treasure in Central Asia that surprises tourists with its rich history, adventurous trails, mountain...

Peterhof Palace: A Surreal Excursion in St. Petersburg

Apr 16, 2024

Peterhof Palace is the highlight of St. Petersburg, Russia. It is also known as the Versailles of Russia,...

15 Top Places to Visit in Samarkand

Apr 15, 2024

Samarkand, the famous Silk Road city, is Uzbekistan's oldest and largest city and offers the essence of history,...

• Enquire Now
• Get a Call Back

Send us a query

Ready to venture out into the world? Fill the form below and start your brand new journey with us

Data collected by Dook International is used for internal purposes to process and respond to your request.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in North Korea

Maybe tourist attractions isn’t the right word for the following ten momunments in North Korea since tourists aren’t welcome in the country, at least if your not Dennis Rodman … However, it would be cool to check out these massive monuments:

Table of Contents

Mansudae Grand Monument

In honour of his 60th birthday, Kim Il-Sung, otherwise known as the ‘Great Leader’, had this huge bronze statue (to the left) erected to commemorate his rule even during his own lifetime. His statue has been looking down over the capital since 1972, and it did so alone until eventually being joined by a similarly impressive statue of the ‘Dear Leader’, Kim Jong Il. In the case of Kim Jong Il, his commemorative statue wasn’t erected until after his death in 2011, being put into position in 2012. You’ll notice that there are many floral tributes placed at the base of the statues. It’s common practice here for people to commemorate their leaders by laying flowers down in this way.

Juche Tower

Just opposite Kim Il Sung Square is the impressive Juche Tower which was made to honour Kim Il Sung’s 70th birthday. From the viewing platform located just beneath the torch on the top of the tower, there are impressive views overlooking Pyongyang. The viewing platforms can be accessed via an elevator. An interesting fact about its construction is that it is composed of 25,500 blocks which correspond to the days of Kim Il Sung’s 70 years (up to his 70th birthday). At the tower’s base is a 30 metre high statue of three figures united at the point of their triumphantly upheld arms. Each figure is holding a different implement, one a hammer, one a sickle, and the other holds a writer’s brush. These tools are the emblems that collectively represent the Workers’ Party of Korea.

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, formerly known as the Kumsusan Memorial Palace, was built in 1976 and acted as Kim Il-Sung’s official residence and the Kumsusan Assembly Hall. It now is the mausoleum for him, the founder of North Korea. After his father’s death, Kim Jong-Il had the building altered to suit the purpose of serving as a mausoleum, where Kim Il-Sung’s body lies embalmed inside a transparent sarcophagus. The palace now houses Kim Jong-Il as well who died in 2011. The Palace of the Sun may only be accessed by tourists on Thursday and Sundays, and then only with an official government approved tour. Photography of any kind is not permitted inside. Just in front of the palace is a large square and impressive moat.

Monument to the Foundation of the Workers Party

These 50 metre tall towers depicting the emblems of the Worker’s Party of Korea, the hammer, the sickle, and the writing brush, were erected on the 50th anniversary of the formation of Korea’s Workers Party. These symbols are representative of Korean workers and their various roles in the workforce. It’s no coincidence that these monuments are each 50 metres high and is also 50 metres at its diameter, as this number signifies the 50 years of the party’s existence at the time of their being built. Emblazoned around the circular base are the words, “Long live the Workers’ Party of Korea which organises and guides all victories for the Korean people!” The monument can found just across from the Mansudae Grand Monuments.

Arch of Triumph

There are many arches commemorating one triumph or another around the world. North Korea’s very own arch distinguishes itself in that it is the world’s tallest standing victory arch standing an impressive 60 metres high and 50 metres wide, that’s 10 metres taller that the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It opened in 1982 to commemorate Korea’s resistance to Japan between 1925 and 1945. The arch was inaugurated on the 70th birthday of Kim Il-Sung in recognition of his role in the resistance. Significantly, the Arch of Triumph is built of 25,500 blocks, which in a similar manner to the Juche Tower, signifies each day of the leader’s life up to his 70th birthday. Inside there are rooms and observation platforms.

Ryugyong Hotel

This impressive rocket shaped structure, Ryugyong Hotel, towers into the sky with its 105 floors and unsurprisingly forms a dominant part of the skyline. Sometimes referred to as the 105 Building, it was finally completed in 2012 after various stops and starts throughout its construction history. It comes as no surprise that the hotel is easily the tallest building in North Korea. The structure is topped by a cone 40 metres wide which is said to be able to rotate.

Three Charters for National Reunification Monument

This huge monument overlooking the Tongil Expressway was built in 2001. The two women facing each other are designed to embody the reunification of North and South Korea. Not surprisingly, being a construction of Northern design, it is built to express the wish that a united Korea would be ruled under North Korea’s leader. The Three Charters, which were formalised by Kim Il Sung in 1972, are a reference to the principles of independence, a peaceful reunification, and national unity.

Rungnado May Day Stadium

The Rungnado May Day Stadium was completed on May 1, 1989. It has a huge capacity of 150,000, making it one of the largest in the world and is the 12th largest sporting venue on the planet. It has been recognised by the Guiness Book of Records as hosting the largest event in the world, namely the Arirang mass games. It also pays host to football matches and other athletic games. The stadium is also used to pay host to huge performances in honour of Kim Il-sung and in celebration of the nation. During June and July, 2002, the stadium held the aforementioned Arirang games, sometimes referred to as the Mass Games, consisting of masterfully choreographed artistic and gymnastic performances, which involved the participation of a staggering 100,000 plus participants. This has become an annual event, usually being held in August and September.

Pyongyang Subway

Pyongyang’s metro system opened in 1973 and is reported to have several hundred thousand commuters daily. This subway system is one of the deepest in the world and is beautifully decorated with sparkling chandeliers, marble columns, pictures of the ‘Great Leader’, and depictions of the city and other sights throughout North Korea.

DMZ: Demilitarized Zone

The Demilitarised Zone attracts a large number of visitors from around the world. It manages to do so in spite of being one of the most heavily armed borders in the world. The benign and unspoilt natural surroundings completely belie the nature of this man made political boundary that has been here since after the Korean War, although it must be said that it is a rare event for hostilities to take place. It’s good to see that this onetime battleground has reverted back to its default setting of a place of natural beauty, and it’s no exaggeration to say that it is one of the most unspoilt areas in all Asia. The Demilitarised Zone serves as a natural habitat even for endangered species such as white-naped and red-crowned cranes. Lynxes and black bears are also to be found here as are a many species of fish, not to mention wetlands and forests.

Menno, from the Netherlands, is an expert in unearthing fascinating facts and unraveling knowledge. At Top10HQ, he delves into the depths of various subjects, from science to history, bringing readers well-researched and intriguing insights.

Related Posts

10 surprising facts about antarctica, top ten car rental rules while travelling, does the hot summer climate affect the car, top 10 famous tourist attractions not worth the money, top 10 famous leaning towers (that are not pisa), top 10 famous red light districts in the world.

Comments are closed.

• Top10hq.com is one of the oldest top 10 lists on the internet. Allready more than 1.000 top 10 lists online and new lists are added daily!
• Part of Groei.Media
• Advertising
• Privacy Policy

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Your Hotels and Resorts Expert

10 Beautiful and Amazing Tourist Attractions in North Korea 2023-2024

North Korea is a secretive country and tourist destination among the travellers. NK follows strict rules when allowing foreign travellers to visit their country. China is the nearest country which have good relations with North Korea . In recent years, people’s interest surged in searching for beautiful tourist places / tourist attractions in North Korea.

10. North Korea Peace Museum, Panmunjeom

North Korea Peace Museum is an important part of historical places in North Korea. The museum is located in North Hwanghae Province’s Panmunjeom, a former village. On July 27, 1953, the Korean War Armistice Agreement was signed between two nations, North Korea and South Korea.

9. Tomb of King Tongmyong, Pyongyang

Tomb of King Tongmyong is an amazing and historical place to visit in Pyongyang. It’s a mausoleum of King Tongmyong. It is one of the most popular historical landmarks in North Korea.

8. Arch of Triumph, Pyongyang

Arch of Triumph is a beautiful monument which was built to remember the resistance of Korea between 1925-1945. This beautiful monument was opened on April 15, 1982.

7. Changbai Mountains, China – North Korea Border

Changbai Mountains is a chain of beautiful mountains located between North Korea and China border. The tourism is booming on the side of China. You should not miss an opportunity to see these beautiful mountains in North Korea.

6. Juche Tower, Pyongyang

Juche Tower is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in North Korea. The monument was opened on April 15, 1982 in Pyongyang, NK. It’s a perfect place to get best view of the city. You would get good glimpse of people roaming around the city.

5. USS Pueblo, Pyongyang

USS Pueblo is an American spy ship, used by US Navy Intelligence. The ship was captured by the North Korean forces on January 23, 1968. To show off the power of Korean forces, the government created a museum out of spy ship. The museum is located on Taeodong River, Pyongyang. This amazing spy ship attracts thousands of tourists each year.

4. Pyongyang Metro

North Korea is not much developed but you would not believe that, they have a large metro stations with latest facilities. Based on figure of 2009, about 98K people use rapid transit system. In each train, you would able to see photographs of former leaders of North Korea. So, it’s an amazing experience to see this metro system.

3. Mansudae Grand Monument, Pyongyang

Mansudae Grand Monument is a giant monument, located in North Korea’s capital. The monument is a 65 foot bronze statue of the Great Leaders of North Korea. These statues were completed in 1972 and considered as one of the most amazing tourist attractions in North Korea.

2. Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, Pyongyang

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in North Korea. The palace is a popular tourist attraction among the foreign travellers. It’s a burial place of Kim II-sung and Kim Jong-il.

1. Kim II-sung Square, Pyongyang

Kim II-sung Square is a popular and large city square, located in the central district of Pyongyang. The popular square is named after Kim II-sung, the founding father of North Korea.

Article Title: 10 Beautiful and Amazing Tourist Attractions in North Korea

John Mathew

John Mathew is a travel writer and travel enthusiastic, primarily interested in how to get to any place, hotels guide, resorts guide, destination guide, and worldwide travel tips.

North Korea Officials Visit Iran in a Rare Public Trip

FILE PHOTO: A North Korean flag flutters at the propaganda village of Gijungdong in North Korea, in this picture taken near the truce village of Panmunjom inside the demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas, South Korea, July 19, 2022. REUTERS/Kim Hong-Ji/Pool/File Photo

SEOUL (Reuters) - A North Korean delegation led by the cabinet minister for international trade is visiting Iran, the North's official media said on Wednesday in a rare public report of an exchange between the two countries believed to have secret military ties.

The minister for external economic relations, Yun Jong Ho, left Pyongyang on Tuesday by air leading a ministry delegation to visit Iran, the North's KCNA news agency said. It gave no other detail.

North Korea and Iran have long been suspected of cooperating on ballistic missile programmes, possibly exchanging technical expertise and components that went into their manufacture.

Iran has provided a large number of ballistic missiles to Russia for use in its war with Ukraine, Reuters reported in February.

War in Israel and Gaza

North Korea is also suspected of supplying Russia with missiles and artillery, although both countries have denied the allegation.

Yun has previously worked on the country's ties with Syria, according to South Korean government database.

Yun has been active in the country's increasing exchanges with Russia, earlier this month leading a delegation to visit Moscow, according to KCNA.

(Reporting by Jack Kim; Editing by Stephen Coates)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Join the Conversation

Tags: Iran , South Korea , North Korea , Middle East , international trade

America 2024

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

Cartoons on President Donald Trump

Feb. 1, 2017, at 1:24 p.m.

Photos: Obama Behind the Scenes

April 8, 2022

Photos: Who Supports Joe Biden?

March 11, 2020

RFK Jr.: By the Numbers

Laura Mannweiler April 26, 2024

Biden’s Student Loan Chief to Step Down

Lauren Camera April 26, 2024

What to Know: Bird Flu Virus in Milk

Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder April 26, 2024

Inflation a Stubborn Foe for the Fed

Tim Smart April 26, 2024

The Curse of the Modern Vice President

‘A Rule for the Ages’

Lauren Camera April 25, 2024

Why Planes Don't Fly Over These Places

I t's hard to fathom just how much commercial airplanes have changed travel in the century since their invention. Prior to their rise, people's options for far-away travel were much more limited than now. They had to rely on ocean liners to cross the Atlantic or Pacific, or railroads for long-distance domestic travel, which sometimes took days or even weeks. This made long-distance travel impractical for those who could not afford to take significant time off work or school, and a cruise across the Atlantic wasn't exactly cheap, either.

Enter the commercial airplane, which revolutionized the tourism industry within just a few decades. While at first aircraft travel was largely reserved for the wealthy, after the end of WWII it started to become more accessible to more people. With the rise of jet engine-powered aircraft in the 1960s-1970s, even average Joes could now afford to fly, and planes could cover in a few hours what used to take weeks. The commercial airline industry started booming, and today some even take up flying as a hobby in their personal aircraft and helicopters or fly vicariously through drones. 

However, not every place is open to air travel, commercial or otherwise, and some areas are heavily restricted or are largely avoided by most aircraft. Reasons vary, from environmental, to security, to urban legend, and not always in places you might expect. From Machu Picchu to the Bermuda Triangle, here's why planes don't fly over these places.

Machu Picchu

History fans are likely familiar with the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru. They are a testament to the Inca civilization that existed centuries ago and are thought to date back to the 15–16th centuries. The name Machu Picchu stands for "old peak," and it is one of Peru's biggest tourist draws. Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is located among the Cordillera de Vilcabamba range of the Andes Mountains, near Cuzco.

The site of Machu Picchu is huge and includes massive structures, a cemetery, and a temple, and is at the end of the vastly popular Inca trail. As you can imagine, people from everywhere in the world visit Machu Picchu on vacation, which has had both positive and negative impacts. On one hand, the increased revenue allows for the ruins to be preserved and taken care of. On the other, there have been environmental consequences.

According to the BBC , in 2006 the Peruvian government created a no-fly zone around Machu Picchu in response to low-flying helicopter tours. Environmentalists claimed the tours had the potential to hurt the indigenous fauna and flora in the area. The tours had previously been approved in the 1990s and had only been reallowed for barely a week before being given the ax again. The entire area is now off-limits for aircraft and helicopters in an effort to preserve the site for future tourism, so new generations will always be able to experience the famous ruins.

Mecca And Medina, Saudi Arabia

Located in Saudi Arabia, the holy cities of Mecca and Medina have some of the most important sites in all of Islam . These include the Kaaba and the Great Mosque in Mecca, and the Prophet Muhammad's Mosque in Medina. Every year, millions of Muslims visit Mecca as part of the "hajj," which means pilgrimage, because it is said to be the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. However, not everyone is allowed into Mecca, and entry is restricted to only followers of Islam. Still, people visit the cities from just about everywhere on the globe, and they are very important for Saudi Arabian tourism.

As the custodians of Mecca, the Saudi Arabian government takes the security and safety of the city and its people very seriously. In addition to deciding who can enter the city, they also heavily police the cities' airspace, too. As the Agence France-Presse explains, not only are foreigners circumscribed from touching the soil in Mecca, but they are also not allowed in the city's airspace, meaning they can't fly over the city, either.

In addition, both the Great Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina are considered no-fly zones. This is strictly enforced by the Saudi government and covers both Muslims and non-believers alike. The only exceptions to this are helicopters, which are occasionally allowed to fly over the city for news reports or to enforce safety.

The Taj Mahal

A relic of the Mughal Empire from centuries past, the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, has long been one of the most sought out tourist destinations in the world. It dates back all the way to the 17th century, and it is widely known for its incredible Mughal-era architecture and decorations. The Taj Mahal itself is a giant mausoleum for Mumtaz Mahal, a former 17th-century empress, but that is not the complex's only building. There are also mosques, gardens, and even a museum, and it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Until the 2010s, there were no official restrictions on the airspace surrounding the Taj Mahal, but that changed following a series of complaints. According to The Times of India , in 2015, both archeologists and the Taj Mahal's security service requested that an official no-fly zone be instituted after the Indian military had violated the airspace in the mausoleum's immediate vicinity multiple times, though one of them may have been an accident.

By 2019, the Taj Mahal had secured status as a no-fly zone, but authorities still found themselves warning drone operators who were flying within the no-fly zone (via NDTV ). In early 2022, what may have been a commercial aircraft was seen flying above the Taj Mahal, prompting more outcries from archeologists and security officials. Someone captured footage of the airplane flying over the building, which they uploaded to Twitter , showing what may have been a commercial jet.

Washington, D.C.

Considering all of the important governmental installations inside Washington, D.C., including the White House , both houses of Congress, and the many museums and monuments, it's no surprise that it has some of the most restricted air space in the entire world. As the FAA explains, the city is regulated by a "Special Flight Rules Area" (SFRA), that consists of a 30-mile radius outer ring and a 15-mile radius inner ring. The rings are centered on the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, which is located just across the Potomac River from the White House.

Travel within the 15-mile inner ring, which is designated as the "Flight Restricted Zone" (FRZ), is especially controlled, and even unmanned aircraft like drones are banned from flying (per the FAA) . Drones are allowed between the inner and outer rings, but only if they meet several requirements. Commercial airlines flying to Ronald Reagan Airport are allowed within the FRZ without a waiver, but everyone else needs explicit FAA clearance before entering or exiting.

It is possible to get a waiver if you are a civilian aircraft, but you are probably going to need a pretty good reason to do so, as the FAA is widely concerned with making sure all politicians in D.C. are amply protected from any potential incidents. Flying over the White House is pretty much only allowed for the president or those on official presidential business. Penalties for violating the SFRA-FRZ include both civil and criminal consequences and monetary fines.

North Korea

To call relations between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the United States poor is an understatement, to say the least. Since 1945, Korea has been divided at the 38th parallel, with the U.S. supporting the Republic of Korea in the south. Though the Korean War officially ended with an armistice in 1953, tensions have always remained high between the North and the South.

As a result, the FAA does not allow any U.S. civilian aircraft to come anywhere close to the DPRK's capitol at Pyongyang. The FAA first instituted their restrictions in 1997, and they have only gotten more restrictive since then as tensions have grown (per the FAA via the Federal Register ). Since 2014, the DPRK has been launching missiles from Pyongyang into the Sea of Japan unannounced, while also jamming navigation and communication networks. This presents a very serious problem for civilian aircraft, as they have no way of knowing when a test might kick-off, and if they experience one, their communications and navigation might not work properly.

In 2022, the FAA put out a release (hosted by OPSGROUP ) that mentioned an increase in the frequency of ballistic missile launches from the DPRK and also made some even more chilling observations. The release suggested that the DPRK could potentially be testing nuclear missiles in the area, the consequences of which would be disastrous if they hit a U.S. civil aircraft.

One of the unforeseen consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been the restriction of civil aircraft into and out of the country. The Russians invaded Ukraine in early 2022, and almost immediately Ukraine responded by shutting down civil air access. The measure was done out of precaution, to ensure that no civilian aircraft were mistaken as military and inadvertently shot down by opposing troops. Tragically, this happened in 2014 during the prior Russian invasion of Ukraine, when a flight from Malaysian Airlines (MH17) was shot down by Russian forces, killing almost 300 civilians.

In addition to the restriction of civilian aircraft, there have also been discussions about implementing an official military no-fly zone over the area of conflict in Ukraine while the war is going on. The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has asked the U.S. and NATO to implement and enforce a no-fly zone, but they have so far rejected calls to do so. Their reasoning is that enforcing a no-fly zone would be no easy task, and it also risks escalating the war.

As well, the potential for a Russian-NATO clash to flare up from a downed aircraft in a no-fly zone is enormous, and Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that creating one would escalate the war internationally. In addition, no-fly zones are extremely costly to enforce, averaging more than $1 billion annually, making it even more prohibitive to introduce and maintain.

Most people probably do not realize it, but in the United States alone there are over 160 active volcanoes. The most well-known is probably Mount St. Helens located in Washington, which famously erupted on May 18, 1980, captivating the nation with its awe-inspiring natural devastation. As incredible as it sounds, the Smithsonian Institution claims that worldwide there are usually double-digit numbers of volcanoes exploding at any given time, including right now.

As you can likely surmise, trying to fly through a volcano is an absolutely terrible idea. As the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) explained in a 2012 report, just being in the area of a volcanic explosion is very dangerous for virtually any aircraft. The hard glass particles and pulverized rock are capable of inflicting serious damage to the outside of an aircraft, and could potentially even obscure the pilots' vision by damaging the windshield. In addition, the air inside of the cabin also has the potential to be contaminated by volcanic ash, and the electrical system is also at risk of short-circuiting.

That doesn't even take into account the engine, which is also very susceptible to damage from volcanic ash. Not only could the glass and rock damage the engine internally after getting sucked in, but due to the low melting point of volcanic ash, it could also cause the engine to completely fail. In short, flying toward an erupting volcano is about the worst thing you could try when behind the controls of an airplane.

Bermuda Triangle

For nearly a century, bizarre and unexplained disappearances within the Bermuda Triangle in the southern Atlantic Ocean have made it one of the most mysterious places on Earth. The intrigue dates back to 1945 when 27 Navy Fliers on "Flight 19" went missing under perplexing circumstances. One afternoon, five Navy bombers had left Florida on a training exercise that was to take them through the triangle, but they never returned.

Transmissions from their attempted return flight indicated they were off-course and lost over the ocean, and when they stopped communicating the Navy sent two rescue planes to investigate. Yet, one of the rescue planes also disappeared, and no trace was found of any of them. Ever since, legends have grown about the supernatural and enigmatic nature of the triangle, which include several other disappearances, and even a few Hollywood films. While it's not an official no-fly zone, countless people are wary of traveling in the area, and many avoid it completely.

However, more reasonable explanations point to the extreme weather conditions in the triangle instead of supernatural events as responsible for most crashes and disappearances, and it appears that's what may have happened to "Flight 19." The Associated Press (via The New York Times ) reported the next day that Navy officials had determined the plane had been blown off course from severe winds. In addition, a witness saw a plane explode and vanish into the ocean, indicating they may have crashed into each other in a horrific accident.

One of the most difficult aspects of being a good pilot is learning to fly in all types of weather and environmental conditions. Undoubtedly, one of the most challenging of those is trying to fly through mountainous terrain. Everything from the changing wind, to the density and pressure of the air, to the changing temperatures, all contribute to making mountain flying very dangerous and difficult to master. That's why flying in the country of Nepal, situated among the Himalayan Mountains, can be such an arduous task.

According to Bloomberg , from 2012–2022 more than 130 people died in 10 different crashes flying in Nepal, and that doesn't include the other 10 plane crashes with survivors. Authorities pointed to the difficult terrain, extreme elevation, and changing weather conditions as catalysts for the majority of the crashes and accidents. Over a similar period from 2009–2018, there were 21 fatal accidents from various types of aircraft that killed more than 150 people (via a 2019 report from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal ). The country sure is beautiful and is a constant destination for tourists, but getting there safely by air is an unfortunate challenge.

Disneyland And Disney World

Since the 1950s, Americans have been able to experience the magic of Walt Disney in person by visiting either the Disneyland amusement park or Disney World resort complex. Disneyland, located near Anaheim, California, came first in 1955, and Disney World, in Orlando, Florida, opened a few years later in 1971. Today, millions of people visit each park individually, and they are some of the most popular family-friendly tourist destinations in the entire world.

It might sound surprising, but ever since the September 11, 2001 terror attacks in New York City, both Disneyland and Disney World have been considered official no-fly zones. According to the FAA's Disneyland Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and  Disney World NOTAM , the no-fly zones extend for a 3-mile radius from each park and cover up to 3,000 feet in elevation. They are both considered "National Defense Airspace," and both manned and unmanned aircraft, including drones, are prohibited from flying within it.

However, it might not be that way for long. As part of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and the GOP's feud against Disney , conservative lawmakers have attempted to introduce legislation to strip Disney's no-fly zone status away. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Troy Nehls from Texas and had several co-sponsors, but it was never voted on and was never been implemented.

The Russian Invasion of Ukraine in 2022 did not just affect air travel within Ukraine, but it turns out it is also affecting civilian air travel in Russia, too. Aircraft registered to many Western nations, including the United States, Canada, and Britain, are all prohibited from entering any part of Russian airspace. This has been the case since shortly after the Russian invasion began, and was done as a response to Western nations banning Russian airplanes from their airspace.

While this was done as a punitive measure by Russian President Vladimir Putin, it's probably something most Western nations would have imposed on their registered aircraft, anyways. This is because, similar to Ukraine, the likelihood of a mistake occurring and a civilian liner being inadvertently shot down is just too much of a risk to take. This danger has been highlighted by some of the conflicts that have occurred in Russian airspace in the year since the invasion began, which include drone crashes and other harassment between Russian and Western aircraft.

The ban from Russian airspace has affected travel routes not just to Russia, but to other destinations around the globe. This is because, as The New York Times explains, some airliners are forced to take alternative routes that are less fuel efficient, leading to unnecessary stops and half-full planes. There are still some foreign aircraft allowed in Russian airspace, and they have been able to take advantage of shorter routes, potentially costing the American airline industry billions each year.

Read this next: Daredevils Who Lost Their Lives During Insane Stunts