Sino-Korean Friendship Tower

Introducing Sino-Korean Friendship Tower

The Sino-Korean Friendship Tower is located north of Pyongyang's Moran Peak. Standing 30 meters tall, it boasts a twinkling red star. Inscribed on the front of the tower are the three characters "Friendship Tower," each of which, incredibly, weighs 40 kilograms. Because the tower was built in memory of the Chinese People's Volunteers who sacrificed their lives in the Korean War, an inscription in Korean is engraved on its front pedestal: "Martyrs of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army! You held high the banner of resisting U.S. aggression and aiding Korea, defending our homeland, and fought shoulder to shoulder with us on this land, defeating our common enemy. Your immortal deeds, the internationalist friendship forged with the blood of the Chinese and Korean peoples, will forever shine on this prosperous land."

Climate and best time to travel

temperate monsoon climate

March-May and September-October

Tickets

A bouquet of flowers at the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower costs 20 yuan

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Most Popular FAQs for Sino-Korean Friendship Tower

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Sino-Korean Friendship Tower was built to commemorate the friendship and cooperation between China and North Korea, particularly in relation to their military and political ties during the Korean War. The tower is a symbol of the enduring relationship between the two countries and honors the sacrifices made by Chinese soldiers during the war.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Sino-Korean Friendship Tower is located in Pyongyang, the capital city of North Korea. It can be reached by taxi or private vehicle from other parts of the city. Public transportation options like buses may not be readily available for tourists, so guided tours or taxi rides are the most common options for getting there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Sino-Korean Friendship Tower is open throughout the day, but visiting in the morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid peak tourist crowds and enjoy the monument in pleasant weather. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower is generally included in the cost of a guided tour of Pyongyang, as the monument is typically part of organized sightseeing packages for tourists. Tickets are purchased through the tour operator, and there is no online ticketing system available for individual visitors.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is advisable to book tickets for a guided tour in advance, as independent travel is not permitted in North Korea. Booking a tour well in advance (several weeks ahead) ensures you secure a spot on the tour and helps in arranging transportation.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. This includes time to view the monument, explore the surrounding area, and learn about the historical significance of the tower through a guide or informational displays.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The key highlight is the tower itself, which is an impressive structure. Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding park area where they can observe the inscriptions and plaques that highlight the historical ties between China and North Korea. The monument’s base also features artwork depicting military cooperation.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, and these are usually in English or Korean. Audio guides are not commonly offered. It is best to arrange for a tour guide when booking your trip to ensure you get the most informative experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the base of the tower, where you can capture the monument from different angles. The surrounding park also offers good photo opportunities with the tower in the background, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by approaching the tower from the front to capture its full grandeur. Spend some time reading the plaques and understanding the symbolism of the monument. Afterward, you can walk around the surrounding park and enjoy the view of the tower from different sides before concluding your visit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically available for the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower. There are no light shows or special nighttime tours offered. The monument is best visited during daylight hours when you can fully appreciate its details and historical significance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Sino-Korean Friendship Tower is not generally crowded, but it can become busier during the peak tourist season, especially in the spring and autumn months. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The facilities at the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower are basic. There are no large food courts or rest areas, but there are a few small kiosks offering bottled water. Public toilets are available nearby for visitors' convenience.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is accessible for elderly visitors and children, but there may be some challenges with uneven surfaces in the park. The monument itself does not have significant physical barriers, but wheelchairs might find access difficult due to the terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (in the form of local currency, North Korean Won) is needed for any small purchases around the site, such as souvenirs or bottled water. Cards and mobile payments are not accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower. However, there are some basic food options available nearby in the city, especially in areas where tourists are more likely to stay.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are limited in North Korea, and halal food is not commonly available. It is recommended to check with your tour guide for any specific dietary needs before traveling.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Pyongyang that cater to tourists, such as the Koryo Hotel and the Yanggakdo International Hotel. These hotels are within a short drive from the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Juche Tower, the Arch of Triumph, and the Pyongyang Grand Theatre. These can be visited in a day trip, and are often part of the same tour itineraries in Pyongyang.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few souvenir shops near the tower, offering items such as postcards, stamps, and small communist-themed memorabilia like pins, coins, and keychains.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the Sino-Korean Friendship Tower, the best way to continue your trip is by taxi or tour bus. These modes of transport are generally arranged as part of a tour package, as independent travel is restricted in North Korea.