Pyongyang | Explore the Mysterious Capital of North Korea!

When the words "mystery" and "North Korea" meet, countless curious eyes focus on this nation. Pyongyang, the heart of North Korea, is like a treasure city full of stories, waiting for travelers to unveil its mystery. Are you ready to embark on this Pyongyang exploration with me? Pyongyang Climate Guide: Travel Timing Through the Four Seasons Pyongyang has a temperate monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 9.7°C. The four seasons are distinct, each with its own charm. Spring (March-May) temperatures range from 5-15°C, everything comes back to life, and the city is dotted with cherry and apricot blossoms. Strolling through the streets is like being in a sea of flowers 🌸. Summer (June-August) is warm and humid, with temperatures between 20-30°C. During this time, you can visit the banks of the Taedong River, enjoy the refreshing river breeze, and participate in lively summer celebrations. Autumn (September-November) is cool, with temperatures between 10-20°C, making it a great time to admire the red leaves. The mountains and forests are dyed into a colorful picture scroll, incredibly beautiful 🍁. Winter (December-February) is relatively cold, with temperatures ranging from -5-5°C, but snow-covered Pyongyang has a unique charm, and if you're lucky, you might even encounter a grand ice and snow festival ❄. Off-the-Beaten-Track Attractions • Mansudae Fountain Park: A gathering place for young people in Pyongyang, it not only has spectacular fountain shows but also beautiful gardens. The fountains dance to the rhythm of the music, and the water splashes are colorful under the lights, romantic and pleasant. Come here at night, the lights are bright, the fountains are dreamy, and it's a great place to take photos. • Ryongwang Pavilion: Located on the banks of the Taedong River, it has a long history and is an excellent place to enjoy the river view. Here, you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the Taedong River, feel the gentle breeze, and learn about North Korean history and culture. In the early morning or evening, the shimmering river complements the pavilions and towers, creating a picturesque scene. • Pyongyang Folk Park: Stepping into this park is like traveling back to ancient Korea. Traditional Korean houses, handicraft workshops, and folk performances allow you to delve into North Korea's traditional culture and lifestyle. You can experience traditional handicrafts, taste authentic Korean snacks, and immerse yourself in the rich folk customs. Pyongyang Cuisine • Pyongyang Cold Noodles: One of the three most famous North Korean dishes, it is made with buckwheat noodles, beef, kimchi, cucumber, and other ingredients, topped with a cold, sweet, and sour broth. It has a smooth and chewy texture, a must-have for summer. It is recommended to try it at Okryu-gwan, a century-old restaurant famous for its cold noodles, where even North Korean leaders host foreign guests. • Copper Bowl Rice: A unique North Korean dish, various side dishes are served in exquisite copper bowls and eaten with rice. It is nutritious and colorful. You can taste the most authentic copper bowl rice in Kaesong, usually served with 9-12 small bowls, each bite full of surprises. • Kimchi: An indispensable part of North Korean cuisine, it comes in many varieties and has a sour and spicy taste. Whether eaten directly or paired with other foods, it has a unique flavor. You can buy some kimchi at the local market as a souvenir for family and friends to taste this unique delicacy. Travel Tips • Visa & Group Tours: Currently, North Korea only allows group tours, and visas must be obtained through a licensed travel agency. Prepare the necessary materials, such as your passport and photos, in advance, and familiarize yourself with the travel agency's itinerary and precautions. • Language Communication: The official language of North Korea is Korean, and English proficiency is low. But don't worry, the tour guide will accompany you throughout the trip and help you communicate. Learning some common Korean phrases, such as greetings and expressions of gratitude, can help you better integrate into the local culture. • Photography Taboos: You can take photos in North Korea, but be careful not to photograph military facilities, sensitive areas, or places where photography is prohibited. Taking photos with North Korean soldiers requires their consent. Respect local regulations and customs. • Currency & Shopping: Tourists can directly use RMB or USD in North Korea without exchanging for North Korean currency. Shopping is generally done at designated friendship stores, where you can buy North Korean specialties such as stamps, souvenirs, and handicrafts. • Internet & Communication: Internet coverage in North Korea is limited, and hotels generally do not have free Wi-Fi. If you need to use the internet, you can purchase a local SIM card, but the cost is high. It is recommended to inform your family and friends about your communication situation during the trip to avoid worry.