Pyongyang Accommodation Guide
For most travellers, accommodation in Pyongyang is one of the most intriguing aspects of visiting the DPRK. Unlike many destinations where hotel choice is wide and independent, tourism in North Korea operates within a structured framework. Foreign visitors stay in designated international-class hotels that are approved to host overseas guests.
This does not mean comfort is sacrificed. On the contrary, Pyongyang’s main tourist hotels are generally spacious, well maintained and designed to provide a smooth experience for organised tour groups.
This guide explains exactly what to expect when staying in Pyongyang, which hotels are most commonly used, and how to prepare for your stay.
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How Accommodation Works in Pyongyang
Tourism in North Korea is fully organised and visitors do not book hotels independently. When you travel with Beyond The Borders Tours, your accommodation is arranged as part of your itinerary.
There are several key points to understand.
Designated International Hotels
Foreign tourists stay in specific hotels that are equipped to handle international guests. These properties are chosen because they offer:
Reliable utilities
English-speaking staff
Appropriate security arrangements
Facilities suited to tour groups
Guided Movement
Visitors normally enter and leave hotels with their guides. This is standard practice across organised tourism in the DPRK and should be viewed as part of the structured travel experience rather than a restriction unique to one property.
Comfort Level
Most main Pyongyang hotels are roughly comparable to a solid four-star property in other parts of Asia. Expectations should be realistic but positive. Rooms are typically large, clean and functional.
The Yanggakdo International Hotel
Yanggakdo International Hotel Overview
The Yanggakdo International Hotel is the most frequently used hotel for foreign visitors and is something of a landmark in its own right. Situated on Yanggak Island in the middle of the Taedong River, it offers a self-contained environment that many tour operators favour.
Location: Yanggak Island, Pyongyang
Typical standard: Four-star equivalent
Flo Fairfield rooms: More than 900
What Makes It Distinctive
The island setting is the defining feature. Being surrounded by the river creates a calm and secure atmosphere, and many travellers enjoy the slightly removed feel after a full day of sightseeing in the capital.
The hotel is tall and prominent, offering excellent views across the city, particularly from higher floors and the revolving restaurant.
Facilities
Guests typically find:
Spacious twin rooms
En suite bathrooms with reliable hot water
Several restaurants
A famous revolving restaurant on the top floor
Bowling alley and leisure facilities
Small souvenir shops
Bar and karaoke options
While décor can feel dated by Western luxury standards, the hotel is well maintained and comfortable.
Who It Suits Best
The Yanggakdo works particularly well for:
First-time visitors
Group tours
Travellers who appreciate a self-contained hotel environment
Those interested in the classic DPRK travel experience
The Koryo Hotel
Koryo Hotel Overview
The Koryo Hotel is the main alternative to the Yanggakdo and offers a more central urban location within Pyongyang. Recognisable by its twin towers, it has long hosted diplomats, business visitors and tour groups.
Location: Central Pyongyang
Typical standard: Four-star equivalent
Atmosphere: More city-centre oriented
Advantages of the Central Location
Being in the heart of the capital gives the Koryo Hotel a slightly different feel. Views overlook busy Pyongyang streets rather than the river, and the setting feels more connected to the city’s daily rhythm.
For many travellers this creates a stronger sense of place.
Facilities
Visitors can expect:
Comfortable guest rooms
Multiple dining venues
Coffee shop and bar
Business facilities
Gift shops
The overall style is traditional but functional. As with most DPRK hotels, the focus is on practicality rather than luxury design.
Who It Suits Best
The Koryo is often preferred by:
Repeat visitors
Travellers interested in a more central setting
Small specialist groups
Those who prefer a city hotel atmosphere
Other Possible Hotels
While the two properties above are the most common, occasionally other hotels in Pyongyang may be used depending on:
Major national events
Large international delegations
Seasonal demand
Special interest tours
Beyond The Borders Tours always selects accommodation based on availability, comfort and suitability for your specific itinerary.
What Rooms Are Like
Size and Layout
Rooms in Pyongyang hotels are usually larger than typical European city hotels. Most feature twin beds, a desk area, wardrobe and seating space.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are generally clean and functional with:
Shower or shower over bath
Western-style toilet
Towels and basic toiletries
Consistent hot water
Housekeeping
Daily housekeeping is standard. Rooms are kept tidy and restocked regularly.
Electricity and Practical Matters
Power Supply
Electricity in major tourist hotels is normally reliable. However, it is wise to bring:
A universal travel adapter
A portable power bank
Sockets are typically European two-pin style.
Internet and Connectivity
Visitors should expect limited connectivity.
Wi-Fi is restricted or unavailable in most hotels
Local sim cards can be purchased but the price is incredibly high
This digital disconnect is part of the experience and many travellers find it refreshing.
Food and Dining in Hotels
Breakfast is usually served in the hotel restaurant and is typically a mix of Korean and international options such as:
Eggs & Toast
Fruit
Coffee and tea
Korean side dishes
Lunch and dinner are often taken at external restaurants as part of the tour programme, although some meals may be in the hotel depending on the itinerary.
Security and Guest Experience
Pyongyang’s international hotels are accustomed to hosting foreign visitors and operate smoothly within the country’s tourism system. Staff are generally professional and helpful, particularly in main guest-facing areas.
It is normal for visitors to move in and out of the hotel with their guides, which is simply part of organised travel in the DPRK.
Tips for a Comfortable Stay
To make the most of your accommodation experience, Beyond The Borders Tours recommends:
Bring snacks if you like late-night options
Pack any specific toiletries you prefer
Carry small denominations of foreign currency
Bring offline entertainment such as books or downloaded media
Keep an open and curious mindset
The Beyond The Borders Perspective
Accommodation in Pyongyang is not about luxury in the conventional sense. It is about experiencing one of the world’s most unusual travel environments while still enjoying a solid level of comfort.
Our team selects hotels that provide the best balance of:
Reliability
Cleanliness
Location
Guest experience
Operational smoothness
For most travellers, the hotel becomes part of the story of visiting North Korea, rather than simply a place to sleep.
Final Thoughts
Staying in Pyongyang offers a hotel experience unlike anywhere else in the world. The properties used for international visitors are comfortable and well organised, yet they operate within a uniquely structured tourism environment that reflects the country itself.
With the right expectations and preparation, most travellers are pleasantly surprised by the standard of accommodation. When arranged through Beyond The Borders Tours, your stay is carefully planned to ensure comfort, efficiency and a smooth introduction to one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
