Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Taiyuan. Relax in a comfortable private car for about 1.5 hours, while your guide shares stories about Shanxi’s rich merchant culture and the history of Pingyao, one of China’s best-preserved UNESCO-listed ancient cities.
Ancient City Wall: Built in 1370 during the Ming Dynasty, Pingyao’s city wall is one of the best-preserved county walls in China. Stretching 6.4 km, it offers panoramic views of the ancient grid-like streets below.
Rishengchang Draft Bank: Established in 1823, this was China’s first draft bank and is often called “the origin of modern Chinese banking.” The museum vividly shows how Shanxi merchants created a financial network across China.
Pingyao Confucius Temple: Originally built in the Tang Dynasty, it is one of the oldest surviving Confucian temples in China. With historic halls, steles, and murals, it reflects the role of Confucianism in ancient education and society.
Pingyao County Government Office (Yamen): Built during the Yuan Dynasty, this is the best-preserved county government office in China. The highlight is the live “court trial performance”, where actors reenact how ancient magistrates held open trials, offering an immersive cultural experience.
City God Temple: Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this is the largest and best-preserved City God Temple in Shanxi. Dedicated to the deity who protects the city, it is a place of prayer, folk culture, and impressive temple architecture.
Xietongqing Draft Bank Museum: One of the most famous banks of the Qing Dynasty, now converted into a museum. Through models, artefacts, and restored rooms, visitors can learn about the glory of Shanxi merchants and their nationwide financial influence.
Ming-Qing Street: The busiest commercial street of the ancient city, lined with shops, teahouses, and local snacks. Walking here feels like stepping back to the flourishing markets of Ming and Qing times while enjoying today’s lively atmosphere.
After a day immersed in the history, culture, and charm of Pingyao, relax on the drive back to Taiyuan.
