[2025 Central District Attraction] Travel Guide for Mansudae Hill Grand Monument (Updated Jul)

Mansudae Fountain Park, located in the heart of Pyongyang, North Korea, is a public space that combines nature and art, symbolizing urban life and culture. The park is widely praised for its magnificent fountains and surrounding sculptures, attracting numerous tourists and locals, especially during the spring and summer seasons, to relax and enjoy the scenery. The main fountain in the park features spectacular water dance performances, with water jets that change with the rhythm of the music, sometimes reaching dozens of meters high, and at other times as gentle as a drizzle, creating a dynamic artistic picture. Especially at night, the lights and water dances complement each other, adding a romantic and dreamy atmosphere, perfect for taking memorable photos. The surrounding sculptures, themed around Korean culture and history, showcase the national spirit and artistic achievements, allowing visitors to deeply appreciate the local cultural connotations. Visitors can rest on the park's benches, enjoying the surrounding flowers and greenery, which contrast sharply with the modern fountain design. Additionally, the park's location is very convenient, just a few steps away from the famous Mansudae Grand Monument, making it easy to visit this iconic city landmark after touring the park. For family trips, the park offers a safe outdoor space where children can play by the fountains while adults enjoy the leisurely atmosphere. Overall, Mansudae Fountain Park is a multifunctional place that blends natural beauty and cultural art, making it a must-visit destination to experience Pyongyang's urban life and culture.

| Unveiling the Mysterious Country. I. Before You Go | Things You Must Know Before Visiting North Korea! 🛂⚠ 1. Travel Methods - Group Tours Only: Independent travel is not permitted in North Korea. All itineraries must be booked through designated travel agencies (such as those in Dandong/Beijing, China). A North Korean tour guide will accompany you throughout the trip. - Visa and Passport: - Chinese tourists need to apply for a North Korean tourist visa (usually handled by the travel agency; the visa is a separate document and will not leave a mark on your passport). - Tourists of other nationalities need to confirm the policy in advance, as some countries may be restricted. 2. Taboos and Restrictions - Prohibited Items: Korean publications, GPS devices, professional cameras (SLRs need to be declared), and materials with religious or politically sensitive content. - Mobile Phones and Internet: - International roaming is not available. You can purchase a North Korean SIM card (only for international calls, at a high cost). - Internet access is almost non-existent. Be prepared for a "digital detox"! 3. Currency and Expenses - North Korea uses the North Korean won (KPW), but foreign tourists can only use cash in euros, US dollars, or Chinese yuan. - Prices are relatively high (a bottle of water is about USD 2-3). Shopping is mainly done in foreign-related stores or designated locations. II. Transportation Guide | How to Get to Pyongyang? 🚂✈ 1. Entry Methods - Airplane: Beijing/Shenyang → Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (Air Koryo; the aircraft are older but offer a unique experience). - Train: Dandong → Pyongyang (approx. 6 hrs). You can observe the North Korean countryside along the way (but casual photography is prohibited). 2. City Transportation - Air-conditioned buses are arranged by the travel agency for the entire trip. You cannot take a taxi or walk away from the group on your own. - Pyongyang subway: The deepest subway system in the world (100m+), featuring vintage carriages and murals (you are allowed to experience it with a tour guide). III. Recommended Attractions | Pyongyang's "Must-Sees" and Hidden Gems 🏛🏞 📍Political Landmarks: Experience North Korean Grand Narrative - Mansudae Grand Monument: Bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. A serious bow and flower offering are required (flower bouquets cost CNY 20-30). - Tower of the Juche Idea: Ascend to the top for a panoramic view of Pyongyang. The torch at the top symbolizes the "eternal flame of the revolution." - Arch of Triumph: 10 meters taller than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, commemorating Kim Il-sung's victory against Japanese imperialism. 📍Cultural Experiences: Carefully Choreographed "Slice of Life" - School or Children's Palace Visit: Watch students perform songs, dances, and instrumental music. The skills are impressive, but the program is fixed (you can give small gifts like stationery). - Pyongyang Acrobatic Troupe: A combination of high-difficulty acrobatics and collectivist aesthetics. Worth seeing! 📍Hidden Gems - Mirae Scientists Street: Colorful apartment buildings showcase "North Korean modernization." The night lights are dazzling, but there is little resident activity. - Stroll along the Taedong River: The riverside lawns are picturesque. You might encounter Pyongyang residents having picnics (interaction is only allowed with the tour guide's permission). IV. Food Experience | What to Eat? How to Eat? 🍚🍺 - Pyongyang Cold Noodles: Buckwheat noodles + beef broth + pear slices. Okryu-gwan serves the most authentic version (but the taste is rather bland). - Copper Bowl Rice: A small dish set meal in the style of royal cuisine. More about the ceremony than the taste. - Taedonggang Beer: Locally produced North Korean beer with a refreshing taste. About USD 2-3 per bottle in foreign-related restaurants. - Hidden Menu: Some hotels offer "special pizzas/fried chicken" to satisfy tourists' curiosity (expensive and generally average taste). V. Shopping Guide | What Souvenirs Can You Buy? 🛍📚 - Stamps and Postcards: Retro designs. Can be sent from the post office (delivery depends on luck). - Propaganda Books: Such as "Selected Works of Kim Il-sung" (check if your country's customs allows them). - Ginseng Skincare Products: North Korean specialty, but the effectiveness is subjective. - Handicrafts: Embroidery, ceramics. Prices are high and bargaining is necessary. VI. Precautions | Keep Your Phone Safe and Be Discreet! 🚫📸 1. Photography Taboos: - It is forbidden to photograph soldiers, scenes of poverty, unfinished buildings. Photos of leaders must be full-body and respectful. - Cameras may be checked, and sensitive photos will be deleted. 2. Code of Conduct: - Avoid discussing politics, South Korea (refer to it as "South Choson"), or evaluations of the leaders. - Be polite to the tour guide and avoid sensitive questions (such as "Can ordinary people access the Internet?"). 3. Tipping Culture: - Tipping is not customary in North Korea, but you can give small gifts to the tour guide (cigarettes, chocolate, stationery). VII. Unique Experiences | "North Korean Moments" You Won't Find Elsewhere 🌟 - Arirang Mass Games: A mass gymnastics performance with 100,000 participants (August-September). As stunning as a human LED screen! - Subway Station Photoshoots: Take "Pyongyang life" photos under the guidance of your tour guide. A guaranteed way to get likes on social media! - Glimpses of the Countryside from the Bus Window: Observe the real North Korea as the bus passes through rural areas (but getting off the bus is prohibited). 🌈 Travelers Say: A trip to North Korea is more like an "immersive social observation." Everything here is carefully designed, yet reveals authenticity in the details. 🌟 Keep an open mind, follow the rules, and you will have a unique and unforgettable journey! (⚠ If you have any concerns during the trip, consult your tour guide. Safety first!)

[Love]Preliminary preparation Visa application North Korea only accepts group tours, and visas must be applied for through qualified travel agencies. Prepare a passport with a validity period of more than 6 months, 2 recent color photos with a white background (35mm×45mm), a copy of your mainland China ID card, and a truthfully filled application form for visiting North Korea. Visas are generally signed on a separate paper and do not affect other visa applications for your passport. [Glister]Item preparation Bring a proper amount of cash (RMB, US dollars or euros), which can be used directly in some places in North Korea; prepare a conversion plug (voltage 220V, most sockets are European standard round holes); since North Korea’s network is not open to tourists, there is no need to consider network equipment. However, you can bring a camera to record the beautiful scenery, but please note that it is forbidden to bring a high-power zoom lens. [RoundNails]Transportation Guide [Bowknot]External transportation From China, you can choose to fly directly from Shenyang to Pyongyang Sunchon Airport by plane, which takes about 1.5 hours; you can also take a train from Dandong, cross the Yalu River to enter North Korea’s Sinuiju, and then transfer to Pyongyang, which takes about 6 hours. [Bowknot] City Transportation The Pyongyang Metro is the main mode of transportation. Two lines run through the city. Tickets cost only 2 North Korean won, and the stations are gorgeously decorated. You can also take trams, trolleybuses, and buses, all for 1 North Korean won. There are fewer taxis. If you need to take one, confirm the price before getting on the bus. [RedHeart] Check in at attractions Kim Il Sung Square The core landmark of Pyongyang, you can visit the huge statue of Kim Il Sung and the magnificent People's Building. There will be grand celebrations on major holidays. Pyongyang Arc de Triomphe Taller than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France, it commemorates the liberation of North Korea from Japanese colonial rule. The building is magnificent and full of reliefs, showing the struggle of the North Korean people. Juche Tower Located on the banks of the Taedong River, it is 170 meters high and is made of 25,550 pieces of granite, symbolizing the number of days after Kim Il Sung's birth. From here you can overlook the beautiful scenery of Pyongyang city and the Taedong River. Mangyongdae Kim Il-sung's birthplace, where his former residence and revolutionary relics are preserved, and the surrounding natural environment is beautiful, as well as scenic spots such as Mangyong Peak and Cheongryubi. [Sakura] Food Recommendation North Korean Cold Noodles A representative staple food, noodles are made of starch and buckwheat flour, paired with beef, eggs, kimchi, etc., topped with cold and sour sweet soup, refreshing and delicious. Korean Rice Cakes There are many varieties, such as Dagao, which is made by steaming glutinous rice and beating it with a wooden mallet, and paired with red bean paste, sugar or honey, which is soft, glutinous and sweet. Rice Wine A local traditional drink, brewed with glutinous rice, with a mellow, slightly sweet taste and low alcohol content, which can be bought in restaurants or shops. [Glister] Notes 1. Respect local customs and habits, remain serious in front of the bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, and follow regulations when taking photos. 2. It is forbidden to take photos of sensitive areas such as military facilities and government agencies; taking photos is generally prohibited in the market, and taking photos with soldiers requires consent in advance.

Pyongyang: A City of History and Modernity In the heart of the Korean Peninsula, Pyongyang exudes a unique charm that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is like a magnificent painting that combines a sense of history with modern vitality, waiting for people to explore and savor. When you step into Pyongyang, the clean and wide streets are eye-catching, and the roads are lined with unique buildings, including traditional houses with national characteristics and modern high-rise buildings. The two complement each other, telling the past and present of the city. At the Mansudae Grand Monument, two huge bronze statues shine in the sunlight. The Korean people come to present flowers with reverence. Here, you can truly feel their deep love and remembrance for their leaders. This emotion transcends time and space and unites the entire nation. The Korean Folk Village is also a great window to learn about Pyongyang's culture. Walking through it, the traditional Korean houses are scattered, and staff in traditional costumes demonstrate ancient handicrafts, such as weaving and pottery, allowing you to appreciate the profoundness of Korean traditional culture up close. When night falls, Pyongyang's vitality is just beginning. Around the bustling Ryugyong Hotel, the lights are bright, and people shuttle between shopping malls and restaurants, enjoying the fun of urban nightlife. Pyongyang's educational culture is also impressive. At Pyongyang University, young students are full of energy. They focus on their studies and work hard for the future of the country, demonstrating the excellent results of the Korean education system. The city also has a profound artistic heritage, with various cultural performances that are wonderful. Traditional Korean dances and passionate music all show the Korean people's love for life and their persistent pursuit of art. Come to Pyongyang and start a wonderful journey of cultural integration and spiritual touch.

Pyongyang: A Unique Charm from the Depths of Time On the Korean Peninsula, Pyongyang is like a unique pearl, blending the weight of history, the splendor of culture, and the vitality of modernity, attracting tourists from all over the world to unveil its mysterious veil. The most direct impression of Pyongyang is the cleanliness and orderliness of the streets. The city is well-planned, with a variety of architectural styles, including traditional Korean buildings with flying eaves and bucket arches, which are simple and elegant, telling stories of the past; and modern high-rise buildings with simple and smooth lines, which show the spirit of the times. The two coexist harmoniously, showing the unique urban style of Pyongyang. The Mansudae Grand Monument is one of the iconic attractions in Pyongyang, with solemn and majestic statues of leaders standing here, and people coming to pay their respects with flowers. Here, you can deeply feel the deep affection of the Korean people for their leaders, which is an important source of cohesion for the Korean nation and carries the spiritual strength of the country's development. Walking into the Korean National Museum is like stepping into the long river of history. The museum's rich collection of artifacts spans thousands of years, from ancient bronzes to exquisite ceramics, from ancient books and paintings to modern revolutionary relics, each exhibit quietly tells the story of Korea's historical changes, giving people a deeper understanding of the past of this land. The Taedong River is undoubtedly the soul of Pyongyang, flowing through the city and adding a dynamic beauty to it. The scenery along the river is picturesque. In the morning, people exercise along the riverbank, jogging and practicing Tai Chi, full of vitality; in the evening, the afterglow of the sunset shines on the river, sparkling, and couples stroll hand in hand, enjoying the peaceful time. On the river, cruise ships sail slowly, and tourists enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of the river and feel the gentle breeze, which is very pleasant. When night falls, Pyongyang presents another scene. The lights of the Ryugyong Hotel are dazzling, becoming a striking landmark of the city's skyline. On the surrounding streets, the shops are brightly lit, and citizens gather in restaurants and tea houses after work, sharing bits and pieces of life, with laughter echoing in the night sky, showing the lively side of the city. Pyongyang's culture and art are also fascinating. In Pyongyang's theaters, you can enjoy a traditional Korean song and dance performance, where the actors' superb skills and cheerful rhythm fully demonstrate the enthusiasm and vitality of Korean culture, making people linger.

Pyongyang: The Heart of North Korea Pyongyang, the heart of North Korea, is a city where vitality and history intertwine, exuding a unique charm. When you step into Pyongyang, the well-planned streets and buildings with distinctive features of the times will surely catch your eye. As the political, economic, and cultural center of North Korea, the city is full of vibrant development. When you come to Pyongyang, you must not miss the Mansudae Grand Monument. The magnificent statues are solemn and solemn, expressing the North Korean people's high respect for their leaders. History enthusiasts can visit the Goguryeo Museum, where the rich cultural relics and historical materials vividly showcase the long history of the Korean Peninsula, making you feel as if you are traveling through time and touching the pulse of history. As night falls, take a stroll along the Taedong River, where the lights are bright and the breeze is gentle, and feel the unique tranquility and beauty of the city. The warm and friendly citizens of Pyongyang will make your trip full of warmth. Come to Pyongyang and embark on an unforgettable journey of exploration.

✨Today, I must strongly recommend the capital of North Korea, Pyongyang, to you🥰! 💫When you step into Pyongyang, it's like entering a dream world🌈. The streets are wide and clean, and the buildings on both sides are unique, full of rich historical charm and unique cultural atmosphere🎊. 🌳The beautiful Taedong River runs through the city, the river is sparkling, and the scenery on both sides is picturesque🖼. Walking along the river, the breeze is blowing, and the mood is particularly comfortable😌. 🎢The Juche Tower stands tall, symbolizing the firm belief and unyielding spirit of the North Korean people💪. Standing under the tower, looking up at the majestic posture, I am full of emotion and pride🥳. 🛕The Mansudae Grand Monument is solemn and atmospheric, and the sculptures on it are lifelike, telling the history and hero stories of North Korea📖. Here, you can remember the martyrs and feel their great dedication🙏. 🏙The Ryugyong Hotel is a beautiful landscape in Pyongyang, and its unique shape is unforgettable😍. At night, the lights are brilliant, like a bright pearl✨.

Wanshoutai Monument: On the occasion of the 60th birthday of Comrade Kim Il Sung, the great leader in April 1972, he was established on the platform of the Wanshou Taishan in Pyongyang. Centered on the bronze statue of Comrade Kim Il Sung, the great leader, it consists of group sculptures and large mosaics. The total area is 240,000 square meters. The height of the group statues on both sides of the bronze statue is 22.8 meters each. The 228 crowds are like 119 people on the right (109 on the right and 109 on the left), with an average height of 5 meters. Large monument north lining The North Korean Revolution Museum has a large mosaic of murals on the front wall of the White Mountain in the revolutionary holy land.