Mount Myohyang

Mount Myohyang, Northkorea - Complete Travel Guide

Mount Myohyang, meaning 'Mysterious Fragrant Mountain,' is one of North Korea's most sacred and scenic destinations, located about 150 kilometers northeast of Pyongyang. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is revered as one of Korea's three sacred mountains and serves as both a natural sanctuary and a significant cultural site. The mountain range features dramatic granite peaks, ancient temples, pristine forests, and crystal-clear streams that have inspired Korean poets and artists for centuries. The area is home to the famous Pohyon Temple, a 1,000-year-old Buddhist monastery, and the controversial International Friendship Exhibition, which houses gifts presented to North Korean leaders. Mount Myohyang offers visitors a rare glimpse into North Korea's natural beauty and cultural heritage, though access remains strictly controlled through organized tours. The mountain's diverse ecosystem includes over 1,800 plant species and numerous wildlife, making it an important conservation area in the region.

Top Mount Myohyang

Pohyon Temple Complex

Explore this ancient Buddhist temple dating back to 1042, featuring traditional Korean architecture with colorful dancheong paintwork and intricate wooden carvings. The temple houses important cultural relics including the Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks and offers insight into Korea's Buddhist heritage. The peaceful mountain setting provides a serene atmosphere for contemplation and photography.

Booking Tip: Temple visits are included in most North Korea tour packages. Best visited early morning for fewer crowds and better lighting. Tours typically cost $2,000-4,000 for multi-day packages including accommodation and meals.

International Friendship Exhibition Tour

Tour this massive underground complex housing over 220,000 gifts presented to North Korean leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il from world leaders and organizations. The exhibition spans multiple floors and showcases everything from luxury cars to exotic artifacts. Photography is strictly prohibited inside, but the experience provides unique insight into North Korea's diplomatic relationships.

Booking Tip: Only accessible through official North Korea tours with strict photography and behavior rules. Included in most Mount Myohyang tour packages. Book through authorized tour operators 2-3 months in advance due to limited permits.

Mountain Hiking and Nature Walks

Explore designated hiking trails through pristine forests featuring rare flora and fauna, including Korean pine, fir trees, and various medicinal plants. The trails offer impressive views of granite peaks, waterfalls, and valleys while providing opportunities to spot wildlife like wild boar and various bird species. Hiking routes are carefully controlled but offer genuine natural beauty.

Booking Tip: Hiking is supervised and limited to designated trails only. Best from May to October for weather conditions. Included in tour packages but requires good fitness level. Bring proper hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing.

Ryongmun Cavern Exploration

Discover this impressive limestone cave system featuring spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers illuminated by colored lights. The cavern extends for several kilometers and maintains a constant cool temperature year-round. Guided tours explain the geological formations and local legends associated with the cave.

Booking Tip: Cave tours are weather-independent making them perfect for rainy days. Included in most Mount Myohyang packages. Wear warm clothing as caves stay cool. Tours run year-round but book as part of complete North Korea tour package.

Traditional Korean Cultural Experiences

Participate in cultural activities such as traditional Korean calligraphy, tea ceremonies, or folk performances arranged at local cultural centers. These experiences provide insight into Korean traditions and customs while interacting with local guides and performers. Activities may include traditional music demonstrations and handicraft workshops.

Booking Tip: Cultural activities vary by season and availability. Best arranged through tour operators who can coordinate with local cultural centers. Additional costs may apply for specialized workshops. Spring and autumn offer more cultural festival opportunities.

Getting There

Mount Myohyang is accessible only through organized tours departing from Pyongyang, approximately a 2.5-hour drive via well-maintained highways. Most visitors arrive in North Korea through Air Koryo flights to Pyongyang's Sunan International Airport, typically connecting through Beijing or Russia. Independent travel to Mount Myohyang is not permitted, and all visits must be arranged through authorized North Korean tour operators working with approved international agencies. The journey from Pyongyang offers scenic countryside views and provides an opportunity to see rural North Korean life from the bus windows.

Getting Around

Transportation within the Mount Myohyang area is provided exclusively by tour operators using designated vehicles with official guides and drivers. Walking is permitted only on approved trails and designated areas around temples and tourist sites, always under supervision. Tour buses transport visitors between major attractions like Pohyon Temple, the International Friendship Exhibition, and accommodation facilities. Private exploration or deviation from planned itineraries is strictly prohibited, and all movement is coordinated through the official tour program with licensed local guides who accompany visitors throughout their stay.

Where to Stay

Hyangsan Hotel (main tourist accommodation)
Chongchon Hotel (government-approved lodging)
Temple guesthouses (limited availability)
Ryongmun Hotel (near cave attractions)
Mountain lodges (basic facilities)
Pyongyang hotels (day trip base)

Food & Dining

Dining options at Mount Myohyang are limited to hotel restaurants and designated tourist facilities serving traditional Korean cuisine alongside some international dishes. Meals typically feature Korean staples like kimchi, rice, bulgogi, and seasonal vegetables, often served family-style with multiple banchan (side dishes). The Hyangsan Hotel restaurant offers the most complete menu with both Korean and Chinese options, while temple areas may provide simple vegetarian Buddhist cuisine. All meals are pre-arranged through tour packages, and independent restaurant visits are not permitted. Local specialties include mountain vegetables, wild game dishes, and traditional Korean alcoholic beverages like soju and makgeolli.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Mount Myohyang is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when weather conditions are most favorable for hiking and sightseeing. Spring offers beautiful cherry blossoms and mild temperatures, while autumn provides impressive fall foliage and clear mountain views. Summer months (July-August) can be hot and humid with frequent rainfall, though the lush green scenery is particularly beautiful. Winter visits (December-March) are possible but involve cold temperatures and potential snow, limiting hiking activities but offering a different perspective of the mountain's stark beauty. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so visitors should prepare for varying conditions regardless of season.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in euros or Chinese yuan as credit cards are not accepted and currency exchange is limited
Photography rules are strictly enforced - never photograph military personnel, construction sites, or anything that could be deemed sensitive
Pack layers and waterproof clothing as mountain weather can change quickly regardless of season

Activities in Mount Myohyang