Pyongyang

Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea on the banks of the Taedong River, is one of the most unusual and monumental cities in Asia, laid out on an enormous, deliberate scale. Its vast ceremonial squares, colossal monuments and statues, wide sweeping boulevards and grand, uniform architecture create a cityscape unlike anywhere else. Landmarks include the great expanse of Kim Il Sung Square, the towering Juche Tower rising above the river, the soaring Arch of Triumph, and monumental bronze statues and museums. Experienced on organised guided tours, Pyongyang offers a fascinating window onto a rarely seen city of striking, theatrical grandeur.

History

Pyongyang is one of the oldest cities in Korea: legend says it was founded in 1122 BC on the site of the capital of the legendary king Tan'gun, and prehistoric dwellings of the Jeulmun and Mumun pottery periods have been excavated at Kŭmtan-ni nearby. Goguryeo moved its capital here in 427, and later Goryeo made it its Western Capital (Wikipedia, Pyongyang).

What you'll find

• Kim Il Sung Square - the vast ceremonial parade square by the river.
• The Juche Tower - the towering monument on the riverbank.
• The Arch of Triumph - the monumental arch above the boulevards.
• The grand boulevards - the wide avenues and monumental architecture.

When to go

April to June and September to October bring the mildest, clearest weather, ideal for taking in the grand squares, monuments and riverside on foot; spring can be especially pleasant. Visits are made on organised guided tours, so timing follows the tour calendar, and the monumental centre is impressive in any bright, clear light.

Good to know

Pyongyang is visited on organised group tours with set itineraries, so it suits travellers happy to follow a guided programme rather than wander freely, and the polished, carefully arranged cityscape can feel curated. As a monumental capital of extraordinary scale and theatrical grandeur, unlike any other city, though, Pyongyang is a genuinely fascinating and memorable place to experience.

Nearby

The DMZ at Panmunjom and the Myohyang mountains are often included on tours.