Journey from Beijing to Pingyao: Exploring the Pingyao City Wall

City Wall of Pingyao - As one of the four completely preserved ancient cities in China, Pingyao Ancient City is a “treasure trove” of ancient Chinese architecture. The city wall stretches for six kilometers, standing approximately 12 meters high and 3 to 6 meters wide at the top. Constructed from compacted earth and covered with bricks and stones, the wall, when viewed from above, resembles a tortoise. There are six city gates located on the north, south, east, and west walls. The south gate represents the tortoise’s head, while the two wells outside the wall resemble its eyes. The north gate, the city’s lowest point, is the tortoise’s tail. Traditionally, the tortoise symbolized longevity, and it was hoped that Pingyao Ancient City would remain secure forever. The City Wall features 72 watchtowers and 3,000 external battlements, symbolizing 72 wise individuals and the 3,000 disciples of Confucius.

Discovering Pingyao Ancient Town and Wang’s Grand Compound House

Ping Yao Temple of the City God - This temple is one of the best-preserved in China, located in the southeast of Pingyao City. Spanning 7,302 square meters (approximately 8,733 square yards), the temple boasts a grand scale. It has a rich history and has undergone several renovations. The exquisite woodcarvings, stone sculptures, painted sculptures, and mural paintings showcase exceptional craftsmanship. The temple is deeply embedded in religious culture and folk customs, making it a must-visit site for tourists in Shanxi.

Rishengchang Former Bank - The Rishengchang Exchange Shop is among China’s earliest banks, founded in 1823 during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). It once had over 35 branches in major Chinese cities. In December 1995, the Shanxi Provincial Government designated it as a Provincial Key Cultural Relic, and it now serves as the Chinese Exchange Shop Museum. Rishengchang was the first bank in China to issue banknotes, facilitating cashless transactions among its numerous branches.

Ming and Qing Dynasties Street - Since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Pingyao has been a hub of trade and a leader in national finance. The main streets, South Avenue, West Avenue, and East Avenue, are lined with various shops, firms, and banks, including teashops, cloth shops, salt shops, silk shops, general merchandise shops, pawnshops, and exchange shops. West Avenue is home to the renowned ‘Countryside Grandfather Rishengchang Bank.’ Ming and Qing Dynasties Street, located on South Avenue, was once the business center.

Wang’s Family Compound (Wang Jia Dayuan) - The Wang Family Compound is the largest of the Shanxi Courtyard Houses and a UNESCO World Heritage cultural site. This fortress compound consists of tightly arranged courtyard residences. Built over multiple generations, construction clusters emerged one by one. The homes within the compound date back to the Qing Dynasty. The site covers 8 hectares and includes 231 courtyards and 2,078 rooms. The courtyards are two stories high and feature slate gray roof tiles. The main area of the compound is symmetrical and divided by a moat with a stone bridge. The four circles of walls are multi-tiered, protecting different layers of dwelling areas from external threats. Within the courtyards are rooms, kitchens, schools, and prayer pavilions. The intricate stone, brick, and wood carvings are themed around folk customs and arts.

• Luxury overnight accommodation in Pingyao’s ancient downtown.
• Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Beijing.
• Round-trip bullet train tickets between Beijing and Pingyao.
• Comfortable in-vehicle air conditioning.

1. Pingyao is renowned for its significant role in Chinese economic history and its well-preserved Ming and Qing urban planning and architecture. It includes the town of Gutao in Pingyao County, located in Jinzhong Prefecture. A cultural exploration trip from Beijing is highly recommended, thanks to the convenient Chinese bullet train service, which takes only 3 hours each way.

2. This is one of the finest tours around Beijing, showcasing the traditions of everyday life, distinct from the royal family and culture in Beijing. The charming ancient town offers a wealth of experiences that highlight the early stages of China’s economic transition to a market economy.

3. Seamless transfers are provided from Beijing hotel to bullet train station, then to Pingyao, and back to Beijing, ensuring a hassle-free tour. The guides are highly knowledgeable and experienced.

4. Experience the unique flavors of northern China that are not available in Beijing.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.