Where to Stay in Pyongyang
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
Find Hotels Across Pyongyang
Compare prices from hotels across all regions
Prices via Trip.com. We may earn a commission from bookings.
Regions of Pyongyang
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The capital city hosts the majority of tourist-approved hotels, ranging from the iconic pyramid-shaped Ryugyong Hotel to island hotels like the Yanggakdo. This is where most visitors spend the bulk of their time, with hotels offering the most reliable amenities and services available in the country.
The ancient capital of Kaesong near the DMZ offers limited accommodation options, typically used for overnight stays during tours to Panmunjom and the demilitarized zone. Hotels here are more modest than Pyongyang properties but provide access to historical sites.
This mountainous area north of Pyongyang features hotels serving visitors to the International Friendship Exhibition and surrounding natural scenery. Accommodation tends to be more isolated and rustic compared to urban options.
The Diamond Mountains on the east coast feature hotels built during the era of South Korean tourism cooperation. Access is restricted and depends on current political conditions, with facilities often closed to foreign tourists.
This east coast city has seen recent development as a tourism priority, with new hotels and resorts constructed. The area offers beach access and serves as a base for visiting nearby attractions, though tourism infrastructure remains limited.
The sacred mountain on the Chinese border requires special permits and extended travel time. Accommodation options are extremely basic, often involving simple guesthouses or lodges with minimal amenities and unreliable utilities.
The port city of Nampo and surrounding west coast area offer limited accommodation, primarily serving day-trip visitors from Pyongyang to the West Sea Barrage and other industrial sites.
North Korea's second-largest city rarely appears on standard tourist itineraries. When accessible, accommodation is limited to basic state hotels with fewer amenities than Pyongyang properties.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Pyongyang
There are no international hotel chains operating in North Korea. All hotels are state-owned and operated by various government entities, including Korea International Travel Company (KITC) and other tourism bureaus. Properties are not branded in the Western sense, though some hotels like the Yanggakdo International Hotel and Koryo Hotel are well-known among tour operators and repeat visitors.
All accommodation for foreign tourists consists of state-designated hotels—there are no guesthouses, hostels, homestays, or private rentals available. Korean citizens and foreigners stay in completely separate facilities. The government maintains strict control over where foreigners can stay, and deviation from assigned accommodation is not permitted. Hotels are typically large, self-contained complexes designed to limit interaction with the local population.
North Korea offers no unique accommodation types in the traditional sense, though the experience itself is unique due to the controlled environment. Some hotels feature distinctive architecture, such as the pyramid-shaped Ryugyong Hotel or island hotels surrounded by the Taedong River. Certain properties include museums, bowling alleys, swimming pools, and rotating restaurants. The experience of staying in a hotel where floors may be restricted, internet is unavailable, and movements are monitored represents a form of accommodation unlike anywhere else in the world.
Booking Tips for Pyongyang
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Independent booking is impossible—all accommodation must be arranged through government-approved international tour operators based in China or other countries. These operators handle all permits, visas, and accommodation assignments. Research tour companies carefully, as they vary in quality, itinerary options, and price points.
Tour packages are all-inclusive, covering accommodation, meals, guides, transportation, and entrance fees. However, the quality of hotels varies significantly between budget and premium tours. Clarify exactly which hotels are included in your package, as this dramatically affects your comfort level during the visit.
Tours coinciding with national holidays, the Mass Games, or other major events fill up 6-12 months in advance. Standard tours may be available with 2-3 months' notice, but last-minute bookings are risky. Visa processing alone can take several weeks, requiring early planning.
Even 'luxury' hotels in North Korea lack amenities standard elsewhere, such as reliable internet, consistent hot water, or Western-style service. Set expectations accordingly and pack essentials like toiletries, medications, and backup power banks, as hotel shops have extremely limited selections.
Heating in winter and electricity year-round can be unreliable, particularly outside Pyongyang. Hotels may experience power outages or limited hot water. If visiting in winter, bring warm clothing for indoors, and consider timing your visit during warmer months for more comfortable hotel conditions.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Pyongyang
For travel during April-June or September-October, especially around major holidays or events like the Mass Games, book 6-12 months in advance. Tour group sizes are limited, and approved hotels have finite capacity. Popular tours sell out early.
March and November see fewer tourists but still require 2-4 months advance booking to allow for visa processing and tour arrangement. Some tours may have minimum participant requirements that affect availability.
Winter tours (December-February) are rare due to extreme cold but may be available with 1-2 months notice. However, many attractions close or reduce hours, and hotel heating may be inadequate. July-August can be very hot and humid but see moderate tourism.
Always book as early as possible for North Korea travel. The visa process, tour operator coordination, and government approvals create long lead times. Three to six months minimum is advisable for any travel, with longer periods for special events or larger groups.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Pyongyang