Pyongan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Pyongan with this comprehensive travel guide featuring everything from must-see cultural and natural attractions to hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Pyongan

Pyongan is one of the provinces in North Korea, located in the western part of the country. The province is known for its natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical significance. The capital of Pyongan, Pyongsong, is a bustling city with plenty of attractions, while the surrounding countryside offers a peaceful retreat from urban life.

List of Places to Visit in Pyongan

Pyongan has a lot to offer in terms of attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places in the province:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Koryo Museum - Located in Kaesong, the Koryo Museum features artifacts from the Koryo dynasty, which ruled Korea from 918 to 1392.
  • Mansudae Grand Monument - This massive bronze statue of North Korea’s founder, Kim Il-sung, and his son, Kim Jong-il, is located in Pyongyang.
  • Pyongyang Metro - The subway system in Pyongyang is not just an efficient way to get around the city, but it’s also a showcase of North Korean propaganda art.
  • Kaesong Folk Hotel - This traditional Korean-style hotel in Kaesong offers a glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Pyongan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Myohyangsan - This mountain range in the northern part of Pyongan offers stunning scenery and is a popular hiking destination.
  • West Sea Barrage - Built across the mouth of the Taedong River, the West Sea Barrage is an impressive feat of engineering and offers scenic views of the sea.
  • Kumgangsan - Located in the southeast of the province, Kumgangsan is another popular hiking destination with beautiful views and a famous hot spring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pyongan

Pyongan is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the province:

  • Myohyangsan - The mountain range offers several hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, as well as a biking route along the river.
  • Kumgangsan - The hike to the peak of Kumgangsan is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views along the way.
  • Chilbosan - This mountain range is located in the west of the province and offers several hiking trails with scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Pyongan: Activities and Tours

Pyongan offers plenty of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in the province:

  • DMZ Tour - A tour of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea is a must-do activity for anyone interested in the country’s history and politics.
  • Pyongyang Circus - The Pyongyang Circus is a popular attraction that showcases North Korean acrobatics and performances.
  • Kaesong City Tour - This tour of the historic city of Kaesong includes a visit to the Koryo Museum, the Tomb of King Kongmin, and other landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pyongan

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Pyongan:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Pyongsong, explore the city
2 Visit the Koryo Museum and Kaesong City Tour
3 Hike in Myohyangsan
4 Visit Kumgangsan
5 DMZ Tour
6 Visit Pyongyang Circus and see the city’s landmarks
7 Relax and enjoy the hotel facilities

Food and Drink Scene of Pyongan

North Korean cuisine is not well-known outside of the country, but Pyongan has its own unique dishes and beverages to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Naengmyeon - A cold noodle dish served with beef broth, vinegar, and mustard, typically eaten in summer.
  • Pyeongyang-style Cold Noodle Soup - Another cold noodle dish served with chicken broth, pork slices, and vegetables, and considered a national dish.
  • Dog Meat Soup - Although not for everyone, dog meat soup is considered a delicacy in North Korea.

Local Beverages

  • Taedonggang Beer - The most famous and widely available beer in North Korea, named after the Taedong River that flows through Pyongyang.
  • Makgeolli - A fermented rice wine that’s popular in Pyongan and other parts of Korea.
  • Soju - A distilled liquor made from rice or other grains, similar to Japanese sake or Chinese baijiu.

Where to Stay in Pyongan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Most tourists in North Korea are required to stay in designated hotels, which are often owned by the government. Here are some options in Pyongan:

  • Yanggakdo International Hotel - This hotel in Pyongyang is one of the most well-known and offers panoramic views of the city.
  • Kaesong Koryo Insam Hotel - A traditional-style hotel in Kaesong that’s known for its ginseng-based cuisine.
  • Miraebong Guesthouse - A budget-friendly option in Pyongsong that’s popular with backpackers.

What to Buy in Pyongan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North Korea is not known for its shopping opportunities, but there are some unique souvenirs and products to bring home from Pyongan, such as:

  • Propaganda posters - Posters featuring North Korean leaders and slogans are a popular souvenir for tourists.
  • Ginseng - North Korea is known for its high-quality ginseng, which is used in traditional Korean medicine.
  • Handicrafts - Local shops in Kaesong and other cities sell traditional Korean handicrafts such as pottery, embroidery, and lacquerware.

Local Culture and Customs of Pyongan

North Korean culture is heavily influenced by Confucian values, and respect for authority and social hierarchy is emphasized. Visitors should be aware of the following customs:

  • Dress code - Dress modestly and conservatively, avoiding revealing clothing or items with politically sensitive symbols or slogans.
  • Photography restrictions - Some landmarks and areas may be off-limits for photography, and it’s important to ask permission before taking pictures of people.
  • Greetings and bows - It’s customary for younger people to bow to their elders as a sign of respect.

Best Time to Visit Pyongan

The best time to visit Pyongan is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pyongan

Here are some important do’s anddon’ts to keep in mind when visiting Pyongan:

Do:

  • Obey local laws and regulations, and respect cultural customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages, and interact with locals to learn more about the country.
  • Bring small gifts or souvenirs to give to your tour guides or hosts as a sign of appreciation.

Don’t:

  • Criticize the government or engage in any politically sensitive discussions.
  • Use North Korean currency outside of the country, as it’s not recognized internationally.
  • Take or attempt to smuggle any items that may be considered prohibited or illegal, such as posters or artifacts.

Safety and Health

North Korea is generally considered a safe country for tourists, but there are some precautions to take into account.

Safety in Pyongan

  • Follow your tour guide or host’s instructions at all times, and avoid straying from authorized areas.
  • Avoid any form of political activity or expression, as it may cause unwanted attention or arrest.
  • Be aware of any social or cultural sensitivities, and act with respect and caution in public.

Health in Pyongan

  • Drink bottled water, and avoid drinking tap water or any uncooked or uncleaned produce.
  • Bring your own medicine and first aid kit, as medical facilities may be limited.
  • Be prepared for the weather conditions, and wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

Getting to Pyongan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Travel to North Korea is strictly regulated, and tourists are required to book a tour package with a local travel agency. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Pyongan

  • Sunan International Airport - located in Pyongyang, is the main airport in North Korea and serves international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Pyongan

  • Pyongyang Central Bus Station - provides intercity services to major destinations in the country, including Pyongsong and Kaesong.

Other Options

  • Train - The railway system in North Korea offers international connections with China and Russia, as well as domestic services to major cities.
  • Car rental - Tourists are generally not allowed to rent or drive cars in North Korea.

How to Get Around in Pyongan

Most tourists in North Korea travel as part of a tour group, and transportation is provided by the travel agency. Taxis and private cars are not widely available, and public transportation is limited to buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Pyongan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Korea offers a limited range of tourist destinations, but there are some options to consider from Pyongan:

  • Mount Myohyang - Located in the neighboring province of Jagang, Mount Myohyang is another popular hiking destination with scenic views.
  • Pyongyang - The capital city offers plenty of attractions, including the Juche Tower, the Arch of Triumph, and the Mansudae Art Studio.
  • Nampo - Located on the west coast of North Korea, Nampo is known for its beaches and seafood markets.

Conclusion

Pyongan is a fascinating destination that offers a unique glimpse into North Korea’s history, culture, and natural beauty. From hiking in the mountains to exploring the cities, there’s plenty to see and do in this province. However, visitors should be aware of the legal and cultural restrictions in the country and plan their trip with caution. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip with confidence and enjoy all that Pyongan has to offer.



    Pyongyang