Pyongyang - City On The Banks Of Taedong River

Pyongyang is a superb example of the regime's determination to project its image of progress, discipline and the well-being of its citizens. Don't expect a bustling Asian capital alive with street hawkers and televisions being carried on the backs of bicycles. In fact, don't even expect bicycles.

The city is built around the banks of the Taedong River. The most amazing thing about the river is the two mid-river fountains that rise to a height of 150m (492ft), reputedly the highest in the world. Your first day out in the city will undoubtedly be a guided tour by car.

Places To See

The 20 meter high bronze statue of the Great Leader Kim Il-Sung at Mansudae. This behemothal self-tribute, erected by the Leader himself, will most likely be the first thing you visit. Surreal as it may seem, be aware that the locals expect visitors to this place to take it all very seriously and show respect to the monument. Your tour group will most likely have to lay flowers by the statue's feet, available on-site for €10.

The Pyongyang Metro.
The Juche Tower. A 170-meter tall monument is dedicated to the Juche philosophy of Kim Il Sung. Don't miss the trip to the top, which costs €10 and offers a great view of the city.

The Children's Palace.
The Ryugyong Hotel. This 105-storey building dominates the Pyongyang skyline with its 330 meters of height. Construction started in 1987, but when the money ran out in 1992 it came to a halt. Today it's a spooky concrete skeleton with a building crane stuck on top, and it's not likely to ever be finished.

The USS Pueblo, the captured American vessel.
The stamp shop next to the Koryo Hotel on Changwang St.
Arirang Mass Games, the Mass Gymnastics and Artistic Performance. This is performed in the fall of some years. Was held in September-October 2005, and is expected again in September 2006. With over 100,000 performers this is, in a sense, the greatest show on Earth.

Getting In

Nearly all visitors arrive either by plane or train. The international airport is located near Pyongyang and has direct flights to and from Beijing, China and occasional flights between Pyongyang and some places in Russia. Most tourists fly into Beijing and then connect to the flight to Pyongyang. Trains from China arrive at Pyongyang's main central train station.