Lonely Planet review
This is where most tour groups stay, a massive mid-90s tower on its own island right in the middle of Pyongyang. The rooms are already showing their age, but they are at least spacious and comfortable, with great views from most. As well as a pool and sauna, there are numerous restaurants, a bowling alley, three pool tables, a karaoke lounge, several shops, a casino and a foreigners-only disco.
The advantage of the Yanggakdo is that you can wander around outside without your guides (although don't even think of crossing the bridge into the city), something you can't really do in other hotels in Pyongyang. The Chinese sauna is a 'special service' sauna for tired businessmen, so it's best to stick to the normal sauna, unless you are looking for more risqué activities.