Name: Pingyao

Chinese Name: 平遥县

Province: Shanxi

Status: Xian

Population: 502,042

Area: 1,260 km²

Pingyao is a charming ancient fortified city located about one hundred kilometers from Taiyuan in the heart of Shanxi Province.

A perfect example of China's historic walled cities, Pingyao is regarded as a remarkably well-preserved miracle city and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. A brief stay in Pingyao will immerse you in traditional Ming and Qing architecture.

History

During the Ming dynasty, Pingyao was a thriving commercial hub at the heart of an extensive trade network connecting Mongolia with southern Chine.

Under the Qing dynasty, its immense prosperity led to the creation of the country's first banks and checks, designed to facilitate the transfer of large sums of money. The city fell into decline in the 20th century and could not keep pace with the country's relentless modernization and development.

In 1997, the old city of Pingyao was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Today

Pingyao is a small city with picturesque charm, featuring ancient cobbled alleyways and buildings showcasing Ming and Qing architecture. The beauty of the ancient city and its authenticity captivate travelers at first glance.

Still perfectly preserved, Pingyao is said to be a miracle city that has survived war and the effects of globalization. The alleys are indeed lined with beautiful period stone buildings topped with curved eaves. Red lanterns adorn streets bordered by former administrative buildings, banks, and residences. Several temples have also endured, offering a comprehensive glimpse into imperial Chine of yesteryear.

Beyond the bustling Ming Qing Street, filled with shops and tourist groups, Pingyao remains an authentic city where you can encounter locals lingering in doorways or enjoying the sun on their bicycles.

The city brims with historic structures, including the walls dating from the early Ming dynasty (1370). The city wall encircles the city for 6 km and promises a thorough visit with breathtaking views of the city's rooftops.

Several residences and former banks or administrative offices also merit a stop. Seemingly frozen in time, you can discover period furnishings and typical décor within barrel-vaulted rooms.

The city's opera house offers an evening performance each night exploring the city's history and culture.

A multi-day pass is available to help you explore Pingyao and immerse yourself in the past, far removed from today's modern concerns.

Climate

Located in the heart of Shanxi Province, Pingyao enjoys a semi-arid continental temperate monsoon climate.

In spring, daytime temperatures rise quickly while nights remain quite cool. Summers are fairly rainy and very hot. Autumn is a pleasant season when temperatures cool slightly before entering a cold and windy winter.

The average annual temperature stands at 10°C. The best time to visit Pingyao is in spring and autumn to enjoy beautiful days without suffering from stifling heat or biting cold.

Train

The small Pingyao railway station is connected to Taiyuan and Shijiazhuang.

Long-Distance Buses

Regular buses run to Pingyao from the provincial capital Taiyuan. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours.

The city lacks taxis or public transportation. It is preferable to navigate on foot and wander through the alleyways or walk around the city atop the walls.

Nevertheless, a few electric vehicles or tuk-tuks offer short trips, particularly to take you to the station.

It is also possible to rent a bicycle by the day.

What to Do in Pingyao?

• Walk the city walls passing through the North Gate for a complete circuit.
• Do not miss the Rishengchang Museum, the House of Finance.
• Discover the architecture of wealthy courtyard residences by visiting the former Lei Lutai residence.
• Attend one of the nightly performances at Pingyao Opera.
• Stroll along Ming Qing Main Street before wandering into the parallel alleyways.