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Pingyao


Spring in China
Spring in China
Spring in China
Spring in China

Intro

Pingyao County is 58.4 miles (94 km) southwest of Taiyuan. It comprises of five towns and nine villages, an area of 486.5 square miles (1,260 sq km) within its jurisdiction. This small county was noted for some magnificent residences in ancient traditional styles rather than any appeal in natural beauty.


History

The birthplace of the Jin Businessmen (one of the two power houses during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties), it played an important role in the economic development of Shanxi during that period. The first Chinese trading shop was opened there. Then, for the next hundred years, the city was home to almost all of the large trading shops in the country. To a certain extent, the city played a role to China during the eighteenth century what Wall Street is to the US. It is no longer very prosperous, but the grand Pingyao Old City, which was constructed a thousand years ago, stands the test of time. It was mentioned in the World Cultural Heritage in 1997, alongside with the Zhenguo Temple and Shuanglin Temple also in the vicinity. Wandering along the Ancient Ming and Qing Street amidst rows of residences inside the old town, you can still sense its former grandeur.


Top Attractions
  • Ancient City of Pingyao
  • Ancient City Wall
  • Rishengchang Exchange Shop
  • Temple of the City Gods
  • County Government Museum
  • Ming-Qing Street
  • TZhengou Temple
  • Shuanglin Temple
  • Wang's Compound
  • Qiao's Compound

    • Dinning
    Wheat based food is the main local staple. Different kinds of noodles and snacks are served in the old town. Wantuo and Kao Laolao are popular snacks. Beef and yam are served in almost all restaurants here.
    Shopping
    Once an ancient trade center, shopping is made easy at all times. In the old city, some small specialty stores are dotted here and there, where one can buy exquisite souvenirs. Cured beef, polished lacquer ware, and hand-made shoes are much sought after. Department stores and supermarkets have sprung up in the Old City where one can pick up everyday necessities.
    Night Life
    Folk cultural performances complete in period regalia, are an attractive way to summarize local history and culture. Nightlife in a small town or suburbia is not like that in large cities, but there are late opening bars in the old town.