If you’re looking for a truly authentic Chinese experience, look no further than Pingyao. This ancient walled city is packed with historical and cultural attractions that are sure to leave you in awe. Step back in time as you walk along the cobbled streets lined with traditional courtyards and ancient buildings. From ancient temples to old city walls, Pingyao has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best attractions and things to do in Pingyao, so you can make the most of your visit to this remarkable city.
The 2 Best Must Do Things In Pingyao
The 2 Best Must Do Things In Pingyao
1. 3 Hour Private Walking Tour of Pingyao Highlights
Explore the best of Pingyao on a private walking tour that takes you through its rich history and culture. With your professional and friendly guide, visit Pingyao’s landmarks including the Rishengchang, the first bank established in China, and the Pingyao Confucian Temples. Take a stroll in Ming-Qing Street, the ancient center of commerce that still bustles with activity today. Enjoy panoramic views of Pingyao from the top of the Ming-era City Wall, and skip the long lines at every attraction as all entrance fees are covered. The tour also includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, so there is no need to worry about getting lost. Join us for this brisk half-day walking tour to learn more about Pingyao and its ancient roots.
2. Shuanglin Temple and Wang S Compound from Pingyao
Pick-up for this private tour will be from your hotel lobby at 9:00 AM. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local tour guide, you’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to the first attraction of the day, Shuanglin Temple. This ancient painted sculptures museum is listed as World Heritage by UNESCO and houses over 2000 colorful sculptures reflecting the skills of artisans from the Song Yuan Ming and Qing Dynasties. During your visit, your guide will lead you through the various halls to view the vivid and lifelike sculptures.
After exploring the temple, you will stop for a delicious lunch and a short break at a local restaurant before driving approximately 1 hour to visit the Wang’s Compound. This luxurious residence was built by the Wang Family between 1762 and 1811 and is an impressive example of the grandeur of ancient Chinese architecture.
This private tour is operated only for your party ensuring a personalized experience, and is an excellent way to explore the wonders and history of Pingyao.
The Ultimate Guide to Pingyao: FAQs for Tourists
Pingyao is an ancient city located in Shanxi province, China. The city is famous for its well-preserved old town, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. In this guide, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions by tourists planning to visit Pingyao.1. What is the best time to visit Pingyao?
The best time to visit Pingyao is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather during these months is mild, and the city is less crowded compared to the peak season, which is from June to August. However, if you don’t mind the crowds, summer can be an excellent time to visit, especially if you’re interested in attending the Pingyao International Photography Festival, which takes place in September.
2. How do I get to Pingyao?
You can get to Pingyao by train, bus, or flight. The fastest and most convenient way to get there is by high-speed train, which connects Pingyao with major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. The Pingyao Railway Station is located about 5 kilometers away from the old town. You can take a taxi or a public bus from the station to reach your hotel.
3. What are the top attractions in Pingyao?
Pingyao Old Town is the main attraction in the city. The old town is enclosed within a massive wall that stretches for over 6 kilometers. The wall is over 600 years old and has 72 watchtowers and four gates. Inside the wall, you’ll find many historical buildings such as the Rishengchang Draft Bank, Ming-Qing Street, and the old government offices. Other popular attractions in Pingyao include the Shuanglin Temple, Zhenguo Temple, and the Wang Family Courtyard.
4. What are some of the best places to stay in Pingyao?
There are plenty of accommodation options in Pingyao, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, staying in a traditional Chinese courtyard hotel can be a great idea. Some of the best hotels in Pingyao include the Jing’s Residence, Yide Hotel, and the Pingyao Yunjincheng Hotel.
5. What are some of the best restaurants in Pingyao?
Pingyao is famous for its Shanxi cuisine, which is characterized by its rich flavor and heavy use of vinegar. Some of the best restaurants in Pingyao include De Ju Yuan, located inside the old town, which serves authentic Shanxi dishes like sliced noodles with beef and vinegar, and Braised Pork Belly. Another great option is the Shanxi Handmade Noodles Restaurant, which serves freshly made noodles topped with various vegetables and meat.
6. What are some tips for exploring the old town?
The best way to explore the old town is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes and start early to avoid the crowds. You can rent a bicycle or a rickshaw if you want to cover more ground quickly. Be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and an umbrella in case it gets too hot or rainy. Keep your valuables safe and be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
7. Is it possible to visit Pingyao as a day trip?
While it’s possible to visit Pingyao as a day trip, we don’t recommend it. There are many things to see and do in the old town, and you’ll need at least two days to explore it thoroughly. Staying overnight in a hotel also allows you to experience the city’s nightlife and try out its famous Shanxi cuisine.
8. Are there any festivals or events that take place in Pingyao?
The Pingyao International Photography Festival, which takes place in September, is one of the biggest events in the city. The festival showcases the works of photographers from around the world and attracts photography enthusiasts, professionals, and collectors. Other events and festivals that take place in Pingyao include the Pingyao International Film Festival and the Pingyao Lantern Festival.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Pingyao
If you are looking for an authentic Chinese cultural experience, Pingyao is the place to be. Located in central Shanxi province, Pingyao is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved ancient city walls, traditional Chinese courtyards, and stunning temples. This ancient city is packed with fascinating attractions, so we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you experience the best of Pingyao.Getting to Pingyao
The most convenient way to get to Pingyao is by train. You can take the bullet train from Beijing or Xi’an to Pingyao Railway Station. The journey from Beijing to Pingyao takes around 3 hours, and from Xi’an to Pingyao, it takes around 2 hours. If you are flying, the nearest airport is the Taiyuan Wusu International Airport, which is around 100 kilometers away from Pingyao.Where to Stay in Pingyao
Pingyao boasts many traditional, Chinese-style courtyard hotels, making it easy to find an affordable and comfortable place to stay. Many of these hotels are located inside Pingyao Ancient City, allowing you to experience the city’s unique atmosphere. Some of the most popular hotels include the Pingyao Dejuyuan Guesthouse and the Yide Hotel.Exploring Pingyao Ancient City
Pingyao Ancient City was built over 2700 years ago and is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China. The city walls are one of the key attractions of Pingyao Ancient City. Walking atop the city walls provides an excellent view of the city, and it’s an excellent way to see the city’s various neighborhoods.One of the must-see sites inside Pingyao Ancient City is the Rishengchang Draft Bank. It was the first bank to operate in China and played a significant role in shaping China’s economy. You can see the original bank counters and learn about the ancient banking system.Another popular attraction within the old city is the Pingyao Confucian Temple. It is a beautifully preserved Confucian temple and an excellent example of traditional Chinese architecture. Finally, make sure to visit the Ancient City God Temple. The temple is over 1400 years old and is believed to protect the city’s citizens.Exploring Pingyao’s Surrounding Areas
Pingyao boasts some excellent sites and activities outside of the ancient city. The Shuanglin Temple is a must-see attraction located about 6 kilometers from Pingyao. It has over 2,000 painted clay figurines, and each of these figurines tells a story. You will have the opportunity to witness the Buddha’s life and teachings through these painted figurines.Another great site outside the ancient city is the Wang Family Compound. It was once the residence of the Wang family, an affluent merchant family in the Qing Dynasty. The Wang Family Compound is a testament to their wealth and influence, boasting over 120 courtyards and 1,118 rooms in total.If you are looking for a hike or a bike ride, you can head towards the Yunfeng Mountain Scenic Area. Yunfeng Mountain is the only Taoist mountain in central China and is also famous for its brilliant red rocks.Experiencing Pingyao’s Local Culture
While exploring Pingyao, it’s worth experiencing the local culture. One of the ways to do this is by joining a cooking class. Cooking classes are an excellent way to experience local culture and learn about authentic Chinese cuisine.Another way to experience the local culture is by watching a shadow puppet show. Pingyao is one of the few places in China where you can still witness this ancient art form. The shows are usually held in the evening and are performed in Chinese, but it’s still a fascinating experience.Pingyao is a shopper’s paradise, thanks to the many local markets and shops that offer great souvenirs such as handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and more. The most popular markets include the Pingyao Night Market and the Huayan Mall.Book Your Tour Now
Pingyao is a must-visit destination in China for those looking to experience authentic Chinese culture. With its well-preserved ancient city walls, stunning temples, and traditional Chinese courtyards, there is something here for everyone. Follow this guide to make the most of your time in Pingyao and experience everything that this unique city has to offer.
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