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Where to Stay in Pyongyang

Accommodation Types in Pyongyang

Lodging Options for Tourists

  • No Full Spectrum of Lodging

    Hostels, independent guesthouses, or a broad range of hotels further than a few state-approved options are not available.

  • No Special Local Accommodation

    Traditional homestays or lodges are not open to visitors.

  • No Vacation Rentals or Apartments

    Vacation rentals and apartment options are not available for tourists.

  • No Homestay or Community Tourism

    Homestays and community-based tourism are not permitted for tourists.

Outdoor Lodging Restrictions

  • No Camping or Outdoor Options

    Camping and other outdoor accommodation options are not permitted for visitors in Pyongyang or elsewhere in the DPRK.

  • All Stays are Hotel-Based

    All accommodation falls inside your pre-arranged tour package.

  • No Independent Accommodation

    Your tour provider handles all accommodation selections and bookings.

  • No International Booking Sites

    Independent online booking platforms are not available for DPRK tourist hotels.

Neighborhood Guide for Pyongyang Accommodation

Tourists do not choose neighborhoods for their stay in Pyongyang. Your hotel is assigned as part of your tour package.

Area Character

Location
  • Hotels for foreigners are typically located in central locations or on islands within the Taedong River.
  • Proximity to sights is for the most part good via tour vehicles.
Choice Limitations
  • No detailed breakdown of local areas for accommodation purposes exists for tourists.
  • Neighborhood choice is not considered an option.

Safety Considerations

Supervised Environment
  • All designated tourist areas and accommodations are considered safe.
  • Constant supervision minimizes independent safety concerns.
Independent Movement
  • Tourists are always coupled with guides.
  • Independent wandering is not permitted.

Noise Levels & Ambiance

Peaceful Environment
  • Hotels for tourists are generally quiet.
  • The ambiance is typically formal and well-maintained.
Local Interaction
  • Tourist areas are distinct from local residential zones.
  • Direct interaction with local life within hotel areas is limited.

Proximity to Attractions

Strategic Locations:

Tourist hotels, like the Yanggakdo Hotel or Koryo Hotel, are generally centrally located.

Guided Access:

Hotels offer easy access to sights via your tour vehicle, facilitating structured itineraries.

Booking Strategies for Pyongyang Accommodation

Booking accommodation for Pyongyang is an integrated an element of your overall tour planning.

Booking Recommendations

  • Advance booking through an approved tour operator several months ahead is good practice.
  • This is specifically so for visits during peak seasons (spring and autumn) or around major national holidays.
  • Review your tour operator's terms and conditions for specific booking processes.

Booking Limitations

  • Bookings happen exclusively through state-approved international tour operators.
  • Independent online reservation systems are not usable for DPRK tourist hotels.
  • Walk-in rates are not available for travelers; all accommodation is pre-arranged.
  • Negotiating for walk-in rates is not applicable.

Policies and Fluctuations

Deposit & Cancellation:
  • Policies vary by tour operator.
  • They generally ask for a deposit upon booking.
  • Strict cancellation terms are common due to complex arrangements.
  • Carefully review all terms and conditions from your travel company.
Seasonal Rates:
  • Tour package prices, including accommodation, can fluctuate.
  • Factors like season, demand, and specific events or holidays influence costs.
  • Peak travel periods may see higher prices.
  • Off-peak travel might offer different pricing.

Note on Booking Platforms

No Independent Access

Tourists cannot use platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, or TrustedHousesitters for booking accommodation in Pyongyang.

Tour Operator Focus

All accommodation reservations are managed by your state-approved tour operator.

Pre-Arranged Stays

Your entire lodging experience is part of your package.

Accommodation Recommendations in Pyongyang

Your travel company determines the end hotel selection; you will likely stay in one of a few designated hotels.

Top Hotel Choices

Yanggakdo International Hotel

This big, iconic hotel sits on an island in the Taedong River, frequently used for group tours.

  • Revolving restaurant, swimming pool, bowling alley often available.
  • Iconic structure, often a primary choice.
Koryo Hotel

This twin-tower hotel sits more centrally in Pyongyang.

  • Common choice for tourists, noted for its distinctive architecture.
  • Offers a more central location.

Other Hotel Options

Potonggang, Sosan, Ryanggang Hotels

These hotels are sometimes used for tours.

  • Generally considered slightly less luxurious than the Yanggakdo or Koryo.
  • Still provide comfortable, state-approved lodging.
Accommodation Style

All tourist hotels have a state-run character.

  • Their purpose accommodates foreign visitors.
  • They offer a window into the state-controlled tourism experience.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Suitable for Families

    All designated tourist hotels are suitable for families.

  • Limited Specific Amenities

    Amenities are not specifically geared towards children.

  • Entertainment Limitations

    Family-specific entertainment options within the hotel are limited.

  • Part of Group Tours

    Families is going to be part of a group tour unless a private tour is arranged.

Solo Traveler & Long-Stay Notes

  • Solo Travel

    Solo travelers participate in group tours unless a more expensive private the journey is booked.

  • Same Places To stay

    Available hotel options remain the same regardless of solo or group travel.

  • Long-Term Stays

    Long-long-term stays are not permitted for foreign visitors under tourist visa regulations.

  • No Independent Long-Stay Options

    Tourist visas do not reach to long-stay accommodation arrangements.

Considerations for Your Stay

State-Controlled Tourism

Your entire travel and accommodation experience adheres to a state-controlled framework.

  • All aspects are pre-arranged.
  • Flexibility in hotel choice is negligible.
Focus of Accommodation

Hotels serve the purpose of accommodating foreign visitors within the approved tourism model.

  • Not a reflection of independent cultural importance.
  • They are functional parts of the tour.

Important Information

All-Inclusive Packages

Accommodation is a portion of your all-inclusive tour package, covering logistics from arrival to departure.

Hotel Designations

Hotels are specifically designated and regulated for international visitors, limiting options.

Communication with Operator

Directly inform about any preferences or needs to your travel company during the planning phase.