Pyongyang - When to Visit

When to Pyongyang

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Pyongyang Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -14°C -2°C 10°C 22°C 34°C Rainfall (mm) 0 137 274 Jan Jan: 0.0°C high, -9.0°C low, 10mm rain Feb Feb: 3.0°C high, -6.0°C low, 15mm rain Mar Mar: 9.0°C high, 0.0°C low, 23mm rain Apr Apr: 17.0°C high, 5.0°C low, 46mm rain May May: 23.0°C high, 12.0°C low, 74mm rain Jun Jun: 27.0°C high, 17.0°C low, 91mm rain Jul Jul: 29.0°C high, 21.0°C low, 274mm rain Aug Aug: 29.0°C high, 21.0°C low, 211mm rain Sep Sep: 25.0°C high, 15.0°C low, 91mm rain Oct Oct: 18.0°C high, 7.0°C low, 48mm rain Nov Nov: 9.0°C high, 0.0°C low, 38mm rain Dec Dec: 1.0°C high, -6.0°C low, 18mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Pyongyang experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons, characterized by cold, dry winters and warm, wet summers. The city sees dramatic temperature variations throughout the year, from frigid January lows of 14°F to warm August highs of 85°F. The precipitation pattern follows a monsoon-influenced cycle, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in summer months - July receives the heaviest rainfall at 10.8 inches, while winter months are remarkably dry with less than an inch of precipitation. The climate creates two primary seasons for visitors: a harsh winter period from December through February with sub-freezing temperatures and minimal precipitation, and a humid summer from June through August with heavy rainfall and warm temperatures. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most comfortable weather conditions with moderate temperatures and lower rainfall, making these transitional seasons ideal for most outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
Late May through early June offer the warmest weather before heavy summer rains begin, though coastal activities are limited in this region.
Cultural Exploration
April through May and September through October provide comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall, ideal for walking tours and outdoor cultural sites.
Adventure & Hiking
May and September offer the best conditions with pleasant temperatures (74-78°F) and moderate rainfall, avoiding both winter cold and summer monsoons.
Budget Travel
November through March typically see fewer tourists due to harsh winter conditions, potentially offering better accommodation rates despite challenging weather.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is the coldest month in Pyongyang with harsh winter conditions and minimal precipitation. Temperatures rarely rise above freezing, making this a challenging time for outdoor activities. The dry conditions and clear skies can offer crisp, sunny days despite the bitter cold.

31°F High
14°F Low
0.4 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

February remains very cold but shows slight warming compared to January. The weather is still predominantly dry with occasional light snow. Outdoor activities remain challenging, but the gradual increase in daylight hours begins to signal winter's end.

37°F High
20°F Low
0.6 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

March marks the beginning of spring with noticeably warmer temperatures, though nights remain cold. The weather becomes more variable with occasional rain replacing winter snow. This transitional month sees the landscape beginning to emerge from winter dormancy.

49°F High
30°F Low
0.9 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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April

April brings pleasant spring weather with comfortable daytime temperatures and the first significant rainfall of the year. This is an excellent month for outdoor activities as trees bloom and the city comes alive. The weather is generally stable with mild conditions.

63°F High
42°F Low
1.8 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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May

May offers some of the most pleasant weather of the year with warm days and mild nights. Rainfall increases but remains moderate, supporting lush green landscapes. This is considered one of the best months for visiting, with comfortable conditions for all activities.

74°F High
53°F Low
2.9 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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June

June brings warm summer weather with increasing humidity and rainfall. While temperatures are pleasant for most activities, the rising precipitation signals the approaching monsoon season. This month offers the last comfortable period before heavy summer rains begin.

81°F High
63°F Low
3.6 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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July

July is the wettest month of the year with heavy monsoon rains and warm, humid conditions. The substantial rainfall can disrupt outdoor activities, though temperatures remain pleasant. Visitors should be prepared for frequent rain and high humidity levels.

84°F High
70°F Low
10.8 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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August

August continues the monsoon season with heavy rainfall and the warmest temperatures of the year. High humidity and frequent rain showers characterize this month. While temperatures are at their peak, the wet conditions can make outdoor exploration challenging.

85°F High
70°F Low
8.3 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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September

September marks the end of the monsoon season with decreasing rainfall and comfortable temperatures. The weather becomes more stable and pleasant, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. This transition month offers relief from summer's heat and humidity.

78°F High
60°F Low
3.6 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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October

October provides ideal autumn weather with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. The comfortable conditions and beautiful fall colors make this one of the best months for visiting. Clear, crisp days are common with pleasant temperatures for all activities.

65°F High
46°F Low
1.9 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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November

November brings cooler temperatures and the transition toward winter conditions. While days can still be pleasant, nights become quite cold and rainfall decreases significantly. This month offers a last opportunity for comfortable outdoor activities before winter sets in.

49°F High
32°F Low
1.5 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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December

December ushers in winter with cold temperatures and minimal precipitation. The weather becomes harsh with frequent sub-freezing temperatures, though the dry conditions can provide clear, sunny days. Outdoor activities become challenging as winter conditions establish themselves.

34°F High
19°F Low
0.7 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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Activities in Pyongyang