This walled city in Shanxi province preserves an entire Ming and Qing dynasty townscape, once home to China’s earliest banking houses.
Why Visit Pingyao
Pingyao’s intact city walls and traditional courtyard architecture make it one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It also holds a significant place in financial history as the birthplace of China’s first modern banking system in the 19th century.
Top Experiences
- Pingyao City Wall: A largely intact 14th century wall encircling the old city, walkable in parts for views over the rooftops.
- Rishengchang Financial House Museum: The site of China’s first draft bank, explaining the city’s historic financial importance.
- Ming-Qing Street: The old city’s main thoroughfare, lined with traditional shopfronts and courtyard buildings.
- Shuanglin Temple: A nearby temple known for its extensive collection of painted clay sculptures.
Private Day Tour in Pingyao Including Zhenguo and Shuanglin Temple
Pingyao Day Tour: Wang's Family Compound and Shuanglin Temple
One Day Tour Exploration of Pingyao Old Town and Wang Family Mansion
Practical Tips
- Pingyao is reachable by high speed rail from Beijing or Xi’an, both around three to four hours.
- Staying overnight in a traditional courtyard guesthouse inside the walls is a popular way to experience the old city after day-trip crowds leave.
- A single entrance ticket covers most of the old city’s paid sites, so plan a route in advance.
FAQ
How do I get to Pingyao?
By high speed train from Beijing or Xi’an, taking around three to four hours.
Is Pingyao worth an overnight stay?
Yes, staying inside the old city walls offers a quieter experience once day-trip tour groups leave.
What is Pingyao known for?
Its intact Ming and Qing dynasty old town and its history as the birthplace of Chinese banking.
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