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Ryugyong Hotel, 조선민주주의인민공화국 - Things to Do in Ryugyong Hotel

Ryugyong Hotel

Ryugyong Hotel, 조선민주주의인민공화국 - Complete Travel Guide

The Ryugyong Hotel stands as one of Pyongyang's most recognizable landmarks, a 105-story pyramid-shaped skyscraper that dominates the North Korean capital's skyline. Construction began in 1987 but has remained largely incomplete, earning it the nickname 'Hotel of Doom.' While the hotel itself is not operational for tourists, it serves as a striking architectural symbol of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's ambitious development plans and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the country's modernist aspirations. Pyongyang, the capital city surrounding this iconic structure, presents a carefully curated experience for the limited number of international visitors allowed into North Korea. The city showcases grand monuments, wide boulevards, and socialist realist architecture, all designed to reflect the ideological principles of the DPRK. Visitors must join organized tours and are accompanied by government guides at all times, making any visit to see the Ryugyong Hotel part of a highly structured and regulated tourism experience.

Top Ryugyong Hotel

View Ryugyong Hotel from Juche Tower

Ascend the 170-meter Juche Tower for panoramic views of Pyongyang, including the best vantage point of the towering Ryugyong Hotel pyramid. The observation deck provides excellent photo opportunities of the city's skyline and the Taedong River. This is one of the few locations where visitors can capture the full scale and architectural impact of the unfinished hotel.

Booking Tip: This must be arranged through official DPRK tour operators as part of a guided tour package, typically costing $1,500-3,000 for multi-day visits. Book 2-3 months in advance through approved agencies in China or specialized North Korea tour companies.

Kim Il-sung Square

Visit the massive central square where military parades and mass demonstrations take place, offering another perspective of the Ryugyong Hotel in the distance. The square can accommodate over 100,000 people and is surrounded by important this destination. Guides will explain the historical significance while the hotel looms prominently in the background.

Booking Tip: Included in all official tour packages to Pyongyang. Tours typically last 4-7 days and must be booked through authorized operators. Expect to pay premium prices due to the exclusive nature of DPRK tourism.

the Grand People's Study House

Tour this impressive library and educational center that offers views across the city toward the Ryugyong Hotel. The building itself is an example of traditional Korean architecture adapted for modern use. Inside, visitors can observe local students and see the emphasis placed on education in North Korean society.

Booking Tip: Part of standard Pyongyang tour itineraries. All visits must be pre-arranged and supervised. Photography restrictions apply in certain areas, so follow guide instructions carefully.

Ride the Pyongyang Metro

Experience one of the world's deepest metro systems, with ornate stations featuring chandeliers, mosaics, and marble decorations. While underground, the journey between stations offers a unique local transportation experience. Some stations serve areas near the Ryugyong Hotel district.

Booking Tip: Metro visits are typically limited to 1-2 stations and must be part of an organized tour. Tours cost $2,000-4,000 depending on duration and group size. Book through specialized DPRK tour operators only.

Photograph from Yanggakdo Island

Stay on Yanggakdo Island where most foreign tourists are accommodated, offering river views toward the city center and the Ryugyong Hotel. The island location provides a unique perspective for photography during sunrise and sunset. The hotel's LED lights, when operational, create striking nighttime views.

Booking Tip: Accommodation is typically at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, included in tour packages. Rooms with city views may cost extra. Book tours 6-8 weeks in advance due to limited availability and strict visa processing requirements.

Getting There

Travel to see the Ryugyong Hotel requires entering North Korea through very limited and highly regulated channels. Most visitors fly into Pyongyang's Sunan International Airport via Beijing or take the train from Dandong, China. All travel must be arranged through government-approved tour operators, and independent travel is strictly prohibited. Visitors need special visas obtained through these tour companies, and entry is subject to current political relations and government policies.

Getting Around

Movement around Pyongyang to view the Ryugyong Hotel and other sites is completely controlled and supervised. Tourists travel in designated vehicles with official guides and drivers, following predetermined routes and schedules. Walking independently is not permitted, and all transportation is included in tour packages. The city has limited traffic, making vehicle movement relatively smooth, though stops and photography opportunities are at the discretion of guides.

Where to Stay

Yanggakdo International Hotel (Yanggakdo Island)
Koryo Hotel (Central Pyongyang)
Sosan Hotel (Potong District)
Haebangsan Hotel (Central District)
Ryanggang Hotel (Moranbong District)
Pyongyang Hotel (Central Area)

Food & Dining

Dining options for tourists viewing the Ryugyong Hotel area are limited to hotel restaurants and select establishments approved for foreign visitors. Meals typically feature Korean cuisine including kimchi, bulgogi, naengmyeon (cold noodles), and various banchan side dishes. The Yanggakdo International Hotel offers the most variety with Korean, Chinese, and limited Western options. Some tours include special dining experiences like Korean barbecue or traditional banquet meals, but all food service is pre-arranged and supervised as part of the tour package.

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When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Pyongyang and photograph the Ryugyong Hotel is during late spring (May) or early autumn (September-October) when weather conditions are most favorable and visibility is clear. Summer can be hot and humid with possible rain affecting outdoor photography, while winter temperatures can be extremely cold. However, tour availability is more dependent on political climate and government policies than seasonal weather, so visitors must be flexible with timing based on when tours are permitted to operate.

Insider Tips

Photography of the Ryugyong Hotel is generally permitted from designated viewpoints, but always confirm with guides before taking pictures as rules can change
The hotel's LED lighting system is not always operational, so nighttime illumination views cannot be guaranteed
Bring extra camera batteries and memory cards as these items may not be available for purchase locally

Activities in Ryugyong Hotel