Pingyao: Step Back in Time in China’s Best-Preserved Ancient City
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Pingyao is one of China’s best-preserved ancient cities and the only one still fully enclosed by intact Ming-era city walls. Walking through its ancient gates is like stepping into a living museum of China’s imperial and financial past.
A Glimpse into Imperial Finance
Once a powerful financial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties, Pingyao was home to some of China’s earliest banks. Many of the historic courtyard homes that once housed merchants and bankers are now open to the public as museums, guesthouses, or restaurants, allowing visitors to experience life as it was centuries ago.
What to See and Do in Pingyao
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Ming Qing Street (Ming Qing Jie): The city’s central thoroughfare is lined with traditional shops, antique dealers, and restaurants, maintaining its lively marketplace atmosphere.
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City Walls: Walk the full 6 kilometers of Pingyao’s fortified walls for panoramic views and a sense of the city’s original layout.
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Paper Cutting Tradition: Pingyao is renowned for paper cutting, a folk art that’s been passed down for generations. Colorful cuttings are sold in local shops and make for a unique souvenir.
Local Culture & Crafts
Pingyao’s bustling backstreets are alive with local activity and artisans keeping ancient skills alive. Whether you’re browsing handmade paper goods, exploring ancestral halls, or enjoying a quiet moment in a teahouse, the city offers a rich tapestry of traditional Chinese life.
