Pingyao, located in China’s Shanxi province, is a city that is steeped in history and culture. With more than 2,700 years of history, Pingyao is one of the oldest cities in China and has plenty of attractions and things to do that will take you back in time. From historic temples to ancient city walls, Pingyao has something for everyone. In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the best attractions and things to do in Pingyao, so you can get the most out of your trip to this fascinating city. So let’s get started!

The 2 Best Walking Tours in Pingyao

1. 3 Hour Private Walking Tour of Pingyao Highlights
2. Shuanglin Temple and Wang S Compound from Pingyao

The 2 Best Walking Tours in Pingyao

1. 3 Hour Private Walking Tour of Pingyao Highlights

Explore the historic Pingyao city on foot during this 3-hour private walking tour. With the help of a professional and friendly guide, you will visit some of the city’s most significant landmarks, including Rishengchang, the first bank established in China, and the Pingyao Confucian Temples. Learn about the fascinating history behind each of the beautifully preserved sites as you explore the ancient center of commerce on Ming-Qing Street. Marvel at the panoramic views from the top of the Ming-era City Wall and skip the lines at every attraction with entrance fees covered. This tour starts in your hotel lobby, and both pickup and drop-off are included. Gratuities, food, drinks, and hotel room fees are not included.

2. Shuanglin Temple and Wang S Compound from Pingyao

Pick-up from your hotel lobby is at 9:00 by a local tour guide aboard a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to start a highlight day trip from Pingyao. The first stop will be the Shuanglin Temple, known to be the ancient painted sculptures museum. This temple reflects the exquisite skills of the artisans of the Song Yuan Ming and Qing Dynasties and houses more than 2000 colorful sculptures. Inside the temple with a history of about 1400 years, your guide will take you around to view the vivid and lifelike sculptures.

You’ll then head to a local restaurant to enjoy delicious lunch and take a short break, before driving for approximately 1 hour to visit the Wang’s Compound – a luxurious residence built during 1762-1811 of the Wang family. This compound is a must-see as it is a beautiful depiction of ancient Chinese architecture and design. With a knowledgeable local tour guide, this private tour operates with just your party, ensuring you receive plenty of attention from your guide for an informative and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pingyao: A Complete Tourist Guide

If you’re an avid traveler who loves exploring historical sites, Pingyao in northern China is a must-visit destination. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a well-preserved ancient walled city that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. However, as a foreign tourist, there might be many questions that pop up in your mind. Don’t worry; we’re here to help you with answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions.

1. Where is Pingyao Located?

Pingyao is located in the Shanxi province of northern China. You can find it in the middle of the triangle formed by Beijing, Xi’an, and Luoyang. The city has an area of 218 square kilometers and is surrounded by a wall that stretches 6.4 kilometers.

2. How to Get to Pingyao?

There are several options for getting to Pingyao. The nearest airport is in Taiyuan, about an hour and a half away by car. You can catch a train to Pingyao Railway Station from major cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Luoyang. Buses from Taiyuan and nearby cities are also available.

3. What are the Main Attractions in Pingyao?

Pingyao’s ancient city walls and buildings are the main attractions. You can explore the 6.4-kilometer-long wall either by walking or renting a bike. The Mingqing Street is a famous commercial street that showcases the traditional architecture and culture of Pingyao. Rishengchang is the first draft bank in China and a must-visit site for history lovers.

4. What is the Best Time to Visit Pingyao?

The best time to visit Pingyao is from April to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. However, the high tourist season is from May to October, and the prices are relatively higher during this period. If you want to avoid crowds and save some money, visit in April or November.

5. What is the Currency Used in Pingyao?

The currency used in Pingyao and China is the Chinese yuan. You can withdraw cash from ATMs or exchange foreign currency at banks and hotels. Credit cards are accepted in high-end hotels and restaurants, but it’s always best to carry some cash as well.

6. What are the Food and Drinks to Try in Pingyao?

Pingyao’s cuisine is famous for its noodles, soups, and savory pastries. Yangrou Paomo is a must-try soup made of mutton and bread that you tear into small pieces and put in the soup. Pingyao’s pastries, such as Qiaotou biscuits and Wantuo cakes, are also popular. As for drinks, Huangjiu, a traditional Chinese rice wine, and Fenjiu, a famous distilled spirit in Shanxi, are worth trying.

7. What are the Customs and Traditions in Pingyao?

Pingyao has a rich cultural heritage with many customs and traditions. People in Pingyao are known for their hospitality, and it’s customary to offer tea or fruits to guests. Respect for the elderly is an essential value, and it’s common to address them as “lao” or “grandpa” and “nainai” or “grandma.” The annual temple fair during the Spring Festival is a significant event for locals and tourists alike.

8. What are the Do’s and Don’ts in Pingyao?

It’s essential to be respectful of the local culture and people in Pingyao. When visiting temples and other historical sites, dress modestly and don’t take photos of people without permission. Avoid haggling too aggressively when shopping, and always carry a map or a translation app if you don’t speak Chinese.In conclusion, Pingyao is a remarkable destination worth visiting. Now that you have answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions, it’s time to start planning your trip to this ancient walled city. Make sure to include Pingyao in your itinerary if you’re traveling to northern China, and experience the rich history and culture of this unique destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Pingyao

Pingyao, located in the Shanxi Province of China, is a city that is rich in history and culture. As a tourist, you can get a glimpse of ancient China through its well-preserved city walls, traditional architecture, and authentic local cuisine. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step plan to make the most of your trip to Pingyao.

Step 1: Visit the Ancient City Wall

One of the most popular attractions in Pingyao is the Ancient City Wall, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The wall is over 6 km long and has four main gates: North, South, East, and West. You can walk or cycle along the wall to get a bird’s eye view of the city. Some sections of the wall are better preserved than others, so be sure to check out the Zhenguo Temple section, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Step 2: Explore the Traditional Architecture

Pingyao’s architecture is a mix of Ming and Qing Dynasty styles, and some buildings are over 400 years old. The traditional structures feature elaborately carved wooden beams, painted roof eaves, and red lanterns hanging from the eaves. Be sure to explore the old streets and courtyards, which are filled with souvenir shops, teahouses, and local restaurants. The Rishengchang Draft Bank is also a must-visit, as it’s considered the first bank in China.

Step 3: Try the Local Cuisine

Pingyao is known for its delicious local cuisine, which features wheat-based dishes and pastries. One of the most popular dishes is Pingyao roasted pork, which is slowly cooked over a wood fire and coated with a mixture of sugar and soy sauce. Another must-try is the Pingyao beef, which is thinly sliced and served with soy sauce and vegetables. For dessert, be sure to try the traditional Pingyao rice cakes, which are a sweet treat made from glutinous rice flour and stuffed with red bean paste.

Step 4: Visit Shuanglin Temple

Located just outside of Pingyao, Shuanglin Temple is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the Northern Wei Dynasty. The temple features over 2,000 vividly painted clay statues of Buddhist deities, and it’s considered to be one of the most important ancient sculpture sites in China. The statues vary in size, with some measuring only a few centimeters and others standing over 3 meters tall.

Step 5: Watch a Traditional Performance

There are several traditional performances that you can watch in Pingyao, including the Pingyao Ancient City Street Performance, which takes place in the old streets and courtyards. The performance features acrobats, musicians, and dancers who wear traditional Chinese costumes. You can also watch shadow puppet shows, which are performed by casting shadow images on a screen using a light source and puppets.

Step 6: Relax in Wang Family Courtyard

The Wang Family Courtyard is a well-preserved large-scale residential complex that belonged to the Wang family, one of the most influential families in Shanxi during the Qing Dynasty. The courtyard consists of 5 courtyards and 6 alleyways, covering an area of over 150,000 square meters. The complex features traditional Chinese architecture with exquisite wood carvings, stone carvings, and brick carvings. You can relax in the courtyard and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Book Your Tour Now

Pingyao is a city that’s rich in history and culture, and there are many things to see and do as a tourist. By following this step-by-step plan, you can make the most of your trip and experience all that Pingyao has to offer. Don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine, explore the traditional architecture, and watch a traditional performance. Enjoy your visit to Pingyao!