Pingyao - Discovering China

Travelling to Pingyao

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Pingyao, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Pingyao and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Pingyao, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Pingyao for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Pingyao

Pingyao is an ancient walled city located in Shanxi Province, China. The city has a history dating back over 2,700 years and is recognized as one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China. It is most famous for its well-preserved city walls, which date back to the 14th century and were built using traditional techniques. The city is also home to over 4,000 historic buildings, many of which are traditional Chinese courtyard houses. Pingyao is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for tourists interested in history, culture, and architecture.

What to visit in Pingyao

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Pingyao, along with some information about each: 1. Pingyao Ancient City: The entire city of Pingyao is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its preserved traditional Chinese architecture, including walls, gates, streets, and residences.
2. Shuanglin Temple: Located in the southwest of Pingyao, Shuanglin Temple is a Buddhist temple famous for its collection of painted sculptures from the Ming dynasty. 3. Rishengchang Exchange House: This historic building was the first exchange house in China, established during the Qing Dynasty to facilitate financial transactions in the region.
4. Zishou Temple: Also known as the Temple of the Patriarch, Zishou Temple is a Buddhist temple with a history of over one thousand years. It features classic architectural design with cultural relics, and houses important cultural relics and artwork.
5. Qiao Family Compound: This compound belonged to the Qiao family, a rich and influential family during the Qing dynasty, and is famous for its authentic Ming and Qing-dynasty architecture, as well as its cultural and historical significance.
6. Wang Family Compound: Located in the southeast of Pingyao, Wang Family Compound is a well-preserved courtyard-style mansion that belonged to the Wang family. It is renowned for its grand scale, delicate design, and authentic Ming- and Qing-dynasty architecture.
7. Ancient City Wall of Pingyao: The city wall of Pingyao is an iconic landmark with a history of over 2,700 years. It is one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in the world and still bears witness to the ancient city's prosperity.
8. Zhenguo Temple: Also known as the City God Temple or City Protector Temple, this temple was built to honor the City God, who Chinese believe can help people to avoid disasters, get good luck, or overcome difficulties.
Pingyao is an enchanting tourist destination with a lot of cultural, historical and architectural landmarks to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Pingyao

The best time to visit Pingyao is during the months of April, May, September, and October. During this time, the weather is moderate with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, and there is less chance of rainfall. Additionally, Pingyao hosts the International Photography Festival in September, which is a great event for photography enthusiasts. However, keep in mind that these months are also peak tourist season, so you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Pingyao

Pingyao is located in the Shanxi Province of China. Here are the steps to get there: 1. By plane: The closest airport to Pingyao is the Taiyuan Wusu International Airport. From there, you can take a bus or a train to Pingyao.
2. By train: Pingyao has a train station that is well-connected to many cities in China including Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Shanghai. You can take a high-speed train or a regular train to Pingyao.
3. By bus: Pingyao has several bus stations and you can take a bus from Taiyuan or other nearby cities to get there.
Once you arrive in Pingyao, you can explore the ancient city walls, visit the Wang Family Compound, and wander through the historic streets of the town.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Pingyao, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Pingyao

Pingyao is a city in Shanxi Province in China known for its traditional cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Pingyao with a short description for each of them: 1. Pingyao Beef: This is a famous dish in Pingyao which is made from local beef that is well-marinated and served with vegetables and sauce.
2. Fried Dough Twist: This is a crispy and crunchy snack that is more than 1000 years old. It’s basically fried dough twisted in various shapes and sizes.
3. Cured Meat: This is a traditional cured meat from Pingyao that has a unique flavor and texture. It's typically eaten as a snack or used in cooking.
4. Pingyao Gao: A sweet dessert cake made from glutinous rice flour and brown sugar that is typically shaped like a small tower.
5. Pingyao Dumplings: Dumplings filled with a wide array of meats, vegetables, and seasonings that are steamed, boiled, or fried.
6. Mutton Soup: This soup is made from lamb that has been simmered for hours with various spices and herbs, and then served with noodles or rice.
7. Pingyao Pai Gu: A pork rib dish that has been cooked to perfection and typically served as a snack.
8. Fried Mantou: This is a crispy, deep-fried version of the typical Chinese steamed buns made from wheat flour. These are just some of the traditional and local foods of Pingyao, which offers a unique culinary experience for visitors to this ancient city.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Pingyao an expensive destination for tourists?

Pingyao is generally considered to be a reasonably-priced destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is relatively affordable compared to other major tourist destinations in China. However, the cost of some tourist attractions, such as entrance fees to ancient sites, may be relatively high. That being said, it's always a good idea to compare prices and do some research to find the best deals when planning your trip to Pingyao.

Where to find accomodation in Pingyao

Pingyao has three distinct areas where visitors can find accommodations - the Ancient City (inside the city walls), the New District (outside the city walls), and Qiao Family Courtyard (about 20km away from the Ancient City). If you want to experience the charm of traditional Chinese architecture and immerse yourself in the rich history of the city, staying inside the Ancient City is your best bet. There are many hotels and hostels inside the city walls, and you can walk to most of the popular attractions.
On the other hand, if you prefer more modern amenities and want to be closer to the transportation hubs, the New District is your best option. You can find a wider range of hotels and guesthouses here, and it's easy to get in and out of the city.
Finally, if you want a more tranquil and rural experience, consider staying at the Qiao Family Courtyard. Although it's a bit far from the Ancient City, the courtyard itself is a famous attraction and staying overnight can be a unique experience.
You can check hotel prices at Pingyao here:
Booking.com

Is Pingyao a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Pingyao is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Pingyao is relatively low, and the local authorities work hard to ensure the safety of visitors. However, like any tourist destination, visitors should take normal precautions such as keeping an eye on their belongings and being aware of their surroundings. It is also recommended to travel with a reputable tour company or guide, especially if you do not speak Mandarin.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Pingyao.

What type of travelers will enjoy Pingyao the most?

Pingyao is a great place to visit for a wide range of travelers. It has a rich history and culture that can be appreciated by anyone who loves to learn about ancient cities. However, it may be more enjoyable for those who appreciate cultural and historical sites. Couples and families can find this city especially delightful. Its architecture and history create a charming atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic stroll or a family outing. Additionally, there are many guided tours that make it easy for visitors to learn about the city's past.
As for young people looking for fun, Pingyao may not offer as many options compared to other cities in China. However, they can still enjoy exploring the city's attraction sites, vibrant street scenes, and getting immersed in the Chinese culture.

How to get around Pingyao

To move around Pingyao, you can use several types of transportation, such as walking, riding a bicycle or an electric scooter, taking a taxi or hiring a private car. Most of the attractions are located within the city walls, so walking and cycling are good options to explore the city at a leisurely pace. Taxis can be useful for longer distances or to reach places outside the city walls. Hiring a private car can be a more convenient option for those who want to visit multiple attractions or do a day trip from Pingyao.

What to see around Pingyao

Sure, here are some amazing places you can visit on a day trip from Pingyao: 1. Qiao Family Compound - A beautiful and well-preserved mansion that showcases traditional Chinese architecture and culture.
2. Zhangbi Ancient Castle - A historical site that features an underground fortress, tombs and temples.
3. Wang Family Compound - A stunning mansion that is known for its ornate decorations and beautiful gardens.
4. Mian Mountain Scenic Area - A great spot for hiking and enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Shuanglin Temple - A UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts over 2,000 painted sculptures and is considered a masterpiece of ancient Chinese art.
6. Jinci Temple - A historical temple that dates back to the Zhou dynasty and is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural relics.
7. The Hanging Temple - A unique temple that is built into the cliffs and seems to "hang" in mid-air, the site also offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
These are just a few of the amazing places you can visit on a day trip from Pingyao!
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