Yanggak-to Island

Yanggak-to (Yanggak Island) is an island on the Taedong River in Pyongyang, North Korea. It is known primarily for its large hotel and built recreational facilities located on the island.

The island contains multi-storey accommodation and associated structures that occupy a substantial portion of its area; the complex stands out on the river skyline when viewed from the city. Public spaces and sports or leisure facilities are also present on the island footprint.

The island has been developed in the late 20th century for urban use rather than remaining a natural river islet; its built features are oriented toward visitors and official accommodation. The island lies adjacent to central Pyongyang and is reached by bridges and city roads.

Geographically it sits in the Taedong River within Pyongyang’s municipal area, east of the central administrative district.

• Notable structures: Situated in the Taedong River within Pyongyang, the island is notable for the large government-operated hotel and related facilities on its footprint.

What to See#

• Yanggakdo International Hotel: A high-rise hotel complex and associated recreational buildings that dominate the island skyline and are the island’s most visible structures.

Yanggak-to (Yanggak Island) is in central Pyongyang and is reached by city roads across the island bridges; the island is also served by the Pyongyang Metro (Yanggakdo station on the Chollima Line), with a short walk to island landmarks such as the Yanggakdo International Hotel. Note that access in Pyongyang is controlled and visitors normally move around as part of organised tours.

• Access to Yanggak Island (Yanggak-to) is controlled by DPRK authorities-visits are only possible as part of an approved tour with a licensed operator, so book through an authorized agency.
• If your itinerary includes the Yanggakdo International Hotel, arrange in advance for access to its observation/restaurant levels for the best Taedong River skyline views and follow your guides' directions about photography and movement on the island.