Yangon – The Gateway to the Golden Land
Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar, is still the country’s busiest commercial center. With its green trees and peaceful lakes, it is often called "The Green City of Grace."
The city’s modern history started in 1755, when King Alaung Phaya took over Dagon and renamed it "Yangon," which means "End of Strife." The city was built in a clear grid pattern, with streets running north–south and east–west. Today, Yangon covers 223 square miles and has 45 townships. Around 7 million people live here, and the city still keeps its unique Asian charm, even as the world changes around it.
Famous Sights & Attractions
The most famous landmark in Yangon is the Shwedagon Pagoda. It was built over 2,500 years ago and stands about 100 meters above the city. In the city center, you'll find the Sule Pagoda, which is also a well-known landmark.
For a relaxing break, visitors can enjoy the park around Kandawgyi Lake. This royal lake also features the beautiful Karaweik Barge, a famous landmark on the water.
If you're looking for shopping, Bogyoke Market (formerly called Scott Market) offers traditional Burmese clothing, jewelry, crafts, and souvenirs. Other important places to visit include Chaukhtatgyi, which has a huge and impressive Buddha image, and the Taikkyin WWII Cemetery, a well-kept resting place for Commonwealth and Allied soldiers.
Walking through Yangon’s busy streets and old buildings gives visitors a wonderful glimpse into the past. It's a great escape from the typical city life.
Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar, is still the country’s busiest commercial center. With its green trees and peaceful lakes, it is often called "The Green City of Grace."
The city’s modern history started in 1755, when King Alaung Phaya took over Dagon and renamed it "Yangon," which means "End of Strife." The city was built in a clear grid pattern, with streets running north–south and east–west. Today, Yangon covers 223 square miles and has 45 townships. Around 7 million people live here, and the city still keeps its unique Asian charm, even as the world changes around it.
Famous Sights & Attractions
The most famous landmark in Yangon is the Shwedagon Pagoda. It was built over 2,500 years ago and stands about 100 meters above the city. In the city center, you'll find the Sule Pagoda, which is also a well-known landmark.
For a relaxing break, visitors can enjoy the park around Kandawgyi Lake. This royal lake also features the beautiful Karaweik Barge, a famous landmark on the water.
If you're looking for shopping, Bogyoke Market (formerly called Scott Market) offers traditional Burmese clothing, jewelry, crafts, and souvenirs. Other important places to visit include Chaukhtatgyi, which has a huge and impressive Buddha image, and the Taikkyin WWII Cemetery, a well-kept resting place for Commonwealth and Allied soldiers.
Walking through Yangon’s busy streets and old buildings gives visitors a wonderful glimpse into the past. It's a great escape from the typical city life.