How to Plan Your Tour to Shuanglin Temple and Wang’s Compound from Pingyao

If you are planning to visit Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in China, then you definitely shouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas in a guided tour. Among the many available tours, one of the most popular options is the day trip to Shuanglin Temple and Wang’s Compound. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour and what you can expect from these two stunning attractions.

Experience

The tour to Shuanglin Temple and Wang’s Compound is a private tour, which means that you will have a professional local guide and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle all to yourself. This one-day tour offers exceptional value for money and a perfect opportunity to venture outside the walls of Pingyao to experience some of the magnificent ancient treasures the region has to offer.

Highlights

The tour includes two amazing stops, Shuanglin Temple, and Wang’s Compound, with each location offering unique experiences and historical significance. Shuanglin Temple is renowned for being one of the best ancient painted sculpture museums in the world, housing over 2,000 vivid and lifelike sculptures from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. At Wang’s Compound, you will have an opportunity to explore one of the most stunning and luxurious residential complexes from the Qing Dynasty.

Itinerary

Here’s a more in-depth look at what you can expect from this tour.

9:00 AM – Pick-up from Hotel Lobby

You will be met in the lobby of your hotel by a knowledgeable local tour guide who will take you on an exciting adventure. The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle will transport you to your first stop of the day.

10:00 AM – Shuanglin Temple

Reputed to be an ancient painted sculpture museum, Shuanglin Temple is tucked away approximately 35 km southeast of Pingyao. Here you can enjoy a detailed and focused introduction to the temple from your guide. The temple has seven courtyards and seventeen spacious and magnificent halls. The large and small halls house thousands of sculptures that are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. On the one-hour tour, you can get up close to the intricate carvings and stunning murals that depict scenes from the daily lives of the local people.

12:00 PM – Lunch

After exploring Shuanglin Temple to your heart’s content, the driver will take you to a nearby restaurant where you can enjoy lunch. The local delicacies are sure to satiate your taste buds and leave you energized for the remainder of the day’s trip.

1:00 PM – Wang’s Compound

The next stop is Wang’s Compound, an amazing high-profile influential residence that has five courtyards, 231 rooms, and spans a total area of over 30,000 square meters. All of the buildings are built in perfect architectural harmony and it’s easy to see why it’s regarded as one of China’s best mansions. During your in-depth guided tour, you will be enlightened on the history of the house and its aristocratic owners as well as Chinese architecture and culture. The compound was home to both the leader of the Chinese Communist Party Mao Zedong and the founder of the Republic of China Sun Yat-sen and it’s easy to see why.

4:00 PM – Return to the Hotel

The end of the day, the driver will take you back to your hotel in Pingyao, and you can reminisce about the unique and unforgettable experience of the friendly locals and the stunning historical landmarks you got to visit in one day.

How to Book

As mentioned earlier, this tour is operated by a third-party company. If you would like to book this excursion, you can click here to access the tour provider’s website. With the provided link, booking is easy and hassle-free. It’s available throughout the year, all you have to do is provide the preferred date, time, and location, and you’re set.

Final Thoughts

When planning your trip to Pingyao, it’s an excellent idea to explore more than just the ancient city walls to discover the hidden gems that the countryside has to offer in a guided tour. Shuanglin Temple and Wang’s Compound represent the perfect opportunity to do just that. With your knowledgeable local guide leading you through each attraction, this tour is a fantastic way to experience China’s ancient culture and learn about its history. We hope that by following our simple guide, you can now plan and enjoy an unforgettable excursion.

FAQs About Pingyao

Pingyao is one of the most well-preserved ancient walled cities in China that is located in the center of Shanxi Province. The city has a long history of over 2,700 years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It attracts millions of tourists from both China and abroad every year. Here are some frequently asked questions about Pingyao:

1. What is the best time to visit Pingyao?

The best time to visit Pingyao is from April to November when the weather is mild and comfortable. However, it’s also the peak season, so expect lots of tourists and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the offseason from December to March. The winter in Pingyao is cold, but the city has a unique charm covered in snow.

2. How to get to Pingyao?

You can get to Pingyao by plane or train. If you’re traveling from other cities in China, taking a train is the most convenient and economical option. Pingyao Railway Station is located in the city center, which makes it easy to get around. If you’re flying in, Taiyuan Wusu International Airport is the nearest airport to Pingyao, and it takes around two hours to get to Pingyao by car.

3. What are the top attractions in Pingyao?

Pingyao has a lot of attractions to offer, but here are some of the must-visit ones:

i. Pingyao Ancient City Wall

The Pingyao Ancient City Wall is one of the most well-maintained city walls in China, built over 600 years ago during the Ming Dynasty. It’s a great place to take a stroll and see panoramic views of the city.

ii. Rishengchang Former Bank

The Rishengchang Former Bank was the first draft bank in China, founded in the 18th century. It’s now a museum that showcases the history of Chinese finance and banking.

iii. Shuanglin Temple

Shuanglin Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has over 2,000 painted statues from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. It’s one of the best-preserved ancient Buddhist temples in China.

iv. Mian Mountain

Mian Mountain is located 45 kilometers away from Pingyao, and it’s a great place to escape the city and enjoy picturesque landscapes.

4. What is the local cuisine in Pingyao?

Pingyao is famous for its beef dishes, and the most famous one is the Pingyao beef. Other local delicacies include Pingyao Qiaomian (thick, round noodles), Eyao (stir-fried donkey meat), and Pingyao Guozi (fried glutinous rice cake).

5. What are the unique customs and traditions in Pingyao?

Pingyao has a rich history and unique customs and traditions, some of which are still being practiced today. Here are some of the notable ones:

i. Pingyao International Photography Festival

The Pingyao International Photography Festival is held annually in September. It’s a great event for photography enthusiasts, where they can see some of the world’s most stunning photos in one place.

ii. Pingyao Lantern Festival

The Pingyao Lantern Festival is celebrated every year during the Spring Festival. The city is decorated with colorful lanterns and lights, and there are lots of fun activities and performances to enjoy.

iii. Worship of City God

The Worship of City God is a folk belief that the locals practice. They believe that the City God protects the city and brings good luck and fortune to its people. There is a temple dedicated to the City God in Pingyao.

6. Where to stay in Pingyao?

Pingyao has a lot of traditional guesthouses and hotels that offer a unique experience of ancient Chinese architecture and hospitality. Here are some of the most popular ones:

i. Jing’s Residence

Jing’s Residence is a 260-year-old courtyard mansion that has been restored into a luxury hotel. It has traditional Chinese architecture and offers modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a swimming pool.

ii. Yide Hotel

Yide Hotel is a traditional Chinese-style hotel located in the heart of Pingyao’s ancient city. It has a courtyard garden and rooms with antique furnishings.

iii. Kylin Grand Hotel

Kylin Grand Hotel is a modern hotel located just outside the ancient city. It has comfortable rooms and modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a fitness center.

Book Your Tour Now

Pingyao is a fascinating city that has a lot to offer to tourists. From its ancient city walls to its delicious cuisine and unique customs, there’s something for everyone in Pingyao. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Pingyao is a great destination to add to your bucket list.

A Comprehensive Guide to Spending Time in Pingyao as a Tourist

Pingyao is a small city located in Shanxi Province, China. It is an ancient city that has been well-preserved, and it is one of the best places to experience traditional Chinese culture. There are several things to do and see in Pingyao, including attractions, landmarks, traditional food, and markets. In this guide, we’ll cover some interesting things that you can do while visiting Pingyao.

1. Visit the Ancient City Wall

The city wall is the most notable feature of Pingyao, and it is an attraction that you cannot afford to miss. The wall is about 6 kilometers long, and it is made of brick and earth. It is an excellent place for sightseeing because it offers a panoramic view of Pingyao city. There are also several watchtowers that you can climb up to have a better view of the surroundings.

2. Explore the Traditional Architecture

Pingyao has a rich history, and the traditional architecture is an excellent way of experiencing it. The city has several traditional buildings that date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. You can explore several courtyards, temples, and commercial buildings that have been well-preserved. The Rishengchang Exchange Shop is one of the most notable buildings, and it played a crucial role in the development of banking in China.

3. Stroll around the Ancient Streets

Pingyao has several ancient streets that are worth exploring. The streets are narrow, and most of them are made of cobblestones. The streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and small stores selling traditional Chinese souvenirs. You can visit the Confucius Temple Street, which is the most famous street in Pingyao.

4. Visit the Shuanglin Temple

The Shuanglin Temple is located about 6 kilometers from Pingyao city. It is a Buddhist temple that was built during the Northern Wei Dynasty. It has several halls and pagodas that date back to different dynasties. The temple is famous for its thousands of painted clay statues, which are considered among the best in China.

5. Experience Traditional Chinese Food

Pingyao is famous for its traditional Chinese food, and you can experience it in several restaurants and street food stalls. Shanxi Noodles, which are made of wheat, are the most famous local dish. You can also try dishes like stewed pork, Pingyao beef, and vinegar mixed with ginger.

6. Go to Wangjia Dayuan Market

Wangjia Dayuan Market is one of the biggest markets in Pingyao, and it is an excellent place to buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Chinese medicines. The market is open every day, and you can get there by taking a taxi or a bus.

7. Attend the Pingyao International Photography Festival

If you visit Pingyao in September, you can attend the Pingyao International Photography Festival. It is a week-long event that attracts photographers and tourists from all over the world. The festival exhibits photographs, hosts lectures, and workshops.

8. Have a Cup of Tea in a Traditional Tea House

Pingyao has several traditional tea houses where you can try different types of Chinese tea. The tea houses are usually decorated in a traditional Chinese style, and they offer a peaceful atmosphere. It is an excellent way of experiencing Chinese culture and relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

Book Your Tour Now

Pingyao is a city that is rich in Chinese culture and history. There are several things to do and see in Pingyao, including visiting the ancient city wall, exploring traditional architecture, strolling around ancient streets, experiencing traditional Chinese food, going to Wangjia Dayuan Market, attending the Pingyao International Photography Festival, and having a cup of tea in a traditional tea house. Plan your trip to Pingyao and experience Chinese culture and history like never before.