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Myohyang Mountain, located in northwestern North Korea, straddling the border of South Pyongan, Jagang, and North Pyongan Provinces, is a renowned tourist destination and one of North Korea's Four Great Mountains. It is known as Myohyang Mountain for its wondrous, mysterious terrain and the fragrant aroma of its cypress trees. As the saying goes, "Three thousand miles of beautiful scenery are all scenic, but if you haven't seen Myohyang Mountain, don't talk about its beauty." Since ancient times, it has been hailed as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of North Korea.
This exhibition hall displays gifts presented to Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il by political parties, dignitaries, celebrities, and people from all walks of life around the world. It consists of two Korean-style buildings, the Kim Il-sung Hall and the Kim Jong-il Hall. The building also houses an exhibition hall dedicated to Kim Il-sung's wife, Kim Jong-suk, and the newly opened Kim Jong-un Hall, effectively serving as a family museum.
North Korea has a temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons and an average annual temperature of 8-12°C. Therefore, the best times to visit are May-June in spring and September-October in autumn. These two seasons offer breathtaking scenery, with clear skies and breathtaking views of vibrant flowers and vibrant forests.
There are several hiking trails on Myohyang Mountain, the shortest of which is the Sangwondong Trail, covering a total of 55 kilometers. The Sangwondong, Manpodong, and Pilu Peak on Myohyang Mountain offer stunning scenery and are now considered a popular hiking destination.
International Friendship Exhibition Hall
The International Friendship Exhibition Hall consists of the Kim Il Sung International Friendship Hall (main building) and the Kim Jong Il International Friendship Hall (annex). The former is larger than the latter, both being multi-story, Korean-style buildings. While they appear wooden from a distance, they are actually constructed of concrete. Photography and noise are prohibited inside the halls. Elevators and escalators are available, and the numerous exhibition halls are clean and magnificent. The indoor temperature is maintained at a constant 20°C and relative humidity is 50% year-round. There are also underground exhibition halls, and guided tours and explanations are provided by tour guides.
Myohyang Mountain is a culturally and spiritually significant site in North Korea. It is home to the famous International Friendship Exhibition and Pohyon Temple. The mountain is a symbol of Korean national pride and is associated with North Korea’s political history, serving as a retreat for the country’s leadership.
Myohyang Mountain is located in the North Pyongan Province, about 120 km from Pyongyang. Visitors can reach the mountain by bus or private vehicle from Pyongyang. It is not easily accessible via public transport, and visitors typically rely on organized tours or arrangements made through local authorities.
The mountain is open year-round, though the best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the mountain is at its most scenic. The International Friendship Exhibition is also open to visitors year-round, with peak tourist seasons in May and October.
Entrance fees vary depending on the specific sites visited (e.g., the International Friendship Exhibition). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the mountain or exhibition sites. It is advisable to purchase tickets through an official tour operator or agency.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance through an official tour company, particularly during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 weeks ahead is ideal, especially for organized tours or visits to specific exhibitions and temples.
A full exploration of Myohyang Mountain, including the hiking trails, temple visit, and International Friendship Exhibition, can take about 4 to 6 hours. If you plan to visit more than one site in the area, you may need a full day.
The must-see highlights include the International Friendship Exhibition, Pohyon Temple, the scenic mountain trails, and Taehongdan Lake. The views from the mountain are also a major highlight, offering some of the best landscapes in North Korea.
Guided tours are available, typically in Korean and English. It is best to arrange for an official tour guide through a travel agency, especially for international visitors. Audio guides may also be available in some locations.
The best viewpoints include the summit of Myohyang Mountain, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests. Other great spots are near Pohyon Temple and Taehongdan Lake, where the reflections of the mountains in the water make for great photos.
A recommended itinerary would be to start with a visit to the International Friendship Exhibition, followed by a hike to the summit for panoramic views. Afterward, explore Pohyon Temple and take a boat ride on Taehongdan Lake. Conclude the day by walking through the forested paths or enjoying the scenic views from a viewpoint.
Night visits are not commonly available. However, during special occasions or holidays, there might be light displays or special events at the International Friendship Exhibition. It is best to check with local authorities or tour guides for specific events during your visit.
The site can be crowded during major holidays, particularly around national events and festivals. The least crowded times are typically during the weekdays, especially in the winter months, when the weather is colder.
Basic facilities are available, including rest areas, toilets, and small food stalls. There are also souvenir shops, especially near the International Friendship Exhibition. The facilities may be more limited in remote hiking areas, so it’s advised to bring water and snacks if venturing off the beaten path.
Myohyang Mountain has some accessible paths, but the terrain can be steep in places, which may make it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy the sites, but some hiking routes might be difficult for young children. It’s best to check the specific trails and accessibility options in advance.
Cash is necessary for most transactions in Myohyang Mountain and surrounding areas. Credit cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted, so it is essential to bring enough cash for your visit.
There are a few restaurants and local eateries around Myohyang Mountain, offering traditional Korean dishes. Simple meals like noodles, rice, and vegetables are commonly served. More dining options are available in the nearby towns.
Vegetarian food is typically available, though options may be limited. Halal food options are not commonly found, so it's recommended to plan ahead if you have dietary restrictions.
There are several hotels near Myohyang Mountain, ranging from simple guesthouses to more luxurious hotels. The area around the mountain also has a few traditional Korean inns (Hanok-style) offering more cultural experiences.
Nearby attractions include the city of Pyongyang, which offers many cultural landmarks and museums. Another option is the Kaesong region, which has historical sites such as the Koryo Museum and ancient city ruins.
Souvenir shops near Myohyang Mountain offer typical North Korean products, including handicrafts, postcards, and small gifts. Local products such as traditional Korean tea and handicrafts are common souvenirs.
After visiting Myohyang Mountain, the best transportation options are private cars or taxis to continue your journey. If you're returning to Pyongyang, bus services and organized tours are also available.