Pingyao Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, see, and eat in Pingyao, China. From hiking and biking routes to cultural landmarks and local cuisine, plan your visit to this ancient, walled city in Shanxi province.


Introduction to Pingyao

Located in the Shanxi province of China, Pingyao is an ancient city that draws travelers in with its well-preserved historic sites, charming streets, and vibrant local culture. The city is surrounded by imposing, 14th-century walls, which enclose an area that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

One of the most distinctive features of Pingyao is its old-world architecture, which includes grand mansions, stunning temples, and atmospheric alleyways. Visitors can easily spend days wandering the city’s streets and soaking up its unique atmosphere. But Pingyao also has a variety of natural attractions and outdoor activities to offer, as well as a thriving food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Pingyao

Here are some of the top destinations to add to your itinerary when you visit Pingyao:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pingyao Ancient City Wall: This imposing wall stretches for more than six kilometers around the city and is one of its most iconic landmarks.
  • Ri Sheng Chang Exchange Shop: This historic building was once a hub of trade in the region, and its lavishly decorated interiors offer a peek into the life of wealthy merchants.
  • Pingyao Confucian Temple: This beautifully preserved temple dates back to the Ming Dynasty and features ornate carvings and tranquil gardens.
  • Shuanglin Temple: This complex of Buddhist temples features thousands of statues and frescoes, many of which are more than 1,000 years old.

Natural Attractions of Pingyao: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Mian: This mountain provides a challenging hiking route with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Wang Family Courtyard: This sprawling complex of buildings, gardens, and courtyards is one of the largest private residences in China and offers a glimpse into the life of wealthy families in the area.
  • Mian Shan Scenic Area: This nature reserve features hiking trails, hot springs, and stunning waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pingyao

Pingyao and the surrounding area offer a variety of hiking and biking routes to suit all levels of fitness and experience. Some of the best include:

  • Mount Mian: The hike to the top of Mount Mian is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Shuanglin Temple to Wang Family Courtyard: This route takes you through rural countryside, past ancient temples and stunning natural landscapes.
  • Pingyao Ancient City Wall: Biking the wall is a popular option for visitors who want to see the city from a different perspective.

Best Things to Do in Pingyao: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours available for visitors to Pingyao. Here are a few options:

  • Nighttime Walking Tour: With the city lit up after dark, taking a nighttime tour is a great way to see Pingyao from a different perspective.
  • Mian Shan Hiking Tour: This tour takes you to the top of Mount Mian for stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Pingyao Food Tour: With a variety of local delicacies to try, taking a food tour is a must for anyone visiting Pingyao.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pingyao

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Pingyao:

  • Day 1: Explore the historic city, including the ancient city wall, Ri Sheng Chang Exchange Shop, and Pingyao Confucian Temple.
  • Day 2: Visit the Wang Family Courtyard and Shuanglin Temple.
  • Day 3-4: Take a hiking tour to Mount Mian and explore the Mian Shan Scenic Area.
  • Day 5: Take a food tour in Pingyao to sample some of the city’s renowned cuisine.
  • Day 6-7: Enjoy a nighttime walking tour and other activities and tours in and around Pingyao.

Food and Drink Scene of Pingyao

No visit to Pingyao is complete without indulging in some of the city’s unique cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pingyao Beef: This dish is a local specialty, featuring thinly sliced beef cooked with a variety of spices and seasonings.
  • Pingyao Fried Dough: This savory snack is a popular street food in the area, consisting of fried dough filled with meat or vegetables.
  • Zongzi: These stuffed rice dumplings are a popular snack during the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival.

Local Beverages

  • Fen Jiu: This distilled liquor is a specialty of Shanxi province and is often served at formal occasions and festivals.
  • Qingxu Huaquan: This natural spring water from Qingxu Mountain is known for its health benefits.

Where to Stay in Pingyao: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pingyao has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • Yide Hotel: This traditional Chinese courtyard hotel offers historic charm and modern amenities.
  • Carpenter Inn: This boutique hostel offers a cozy, homely atmosphere and friendly staff.
  • Tian Yuan Kui Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in a restored courtyard mansion and offers a unique blend of luxury and history.

What to Buy in Pingyao: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Pingyao is known for its local products and handicrafts, many of which make great souvenirs. Some popular options include:

  • Lacquerware: This traditional craft involves coating items in layers of lacquer to create a glossy, durable finish.
  • Taomao: These elaborate headdresses are worn by performers during traditional Chinese operas.
  • Pingyao Beef: Take some of the city’s renowned beef home with you as a mouthwatering souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Pingyao

Pingyao has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of festivals and traditions that are still observed today. Some key customs to keep in mind include:

  • Respect for Elders: Elders are highly respected in Pingyao culture, so be sure to show deference to older residents and visitors.
  • Local Festivals: The annual Temple Fair and the Pingyao International Photography Festival are two noteworthy events to look out for.

Best Time to Visit Pingyao

Pingyao can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be very cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pingyao

When visiting Pingyao, keep in mind these general do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs: Learn about local customs and culture and follow them accordingly.
  • Try Local Cuisine: Sample the city’s unique specialties and culinary offerings.
  • Visit Historic Sites: Explore the city’s stunning temples, courtyards, and historic landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the Elderly: As mentioned, respect for elders is a key part of Pingyao culture, so be mindful of their role in the community.
  • Cause Damage to Historic Sites: Help preserve the city’s heritage by not causing damage to historic landmarks or buildings.
  • Disrespect Local Customs: Be aware of your surroundings and local customs, and do not act in a way that may offend or disrespect local residents.

Safety and Health

Pingyao is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should still be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are a few tips:

Safety in Pingyao

  • Watch for Pickpockets: As with any tourist destination, keep an eye out for pickpockets and take steps to protect your belongings.
  • Be Careful on the Ancient City Wall: The wall can be steep and slippery in some areas, so wear appropriate footwear and take care when walking or biking on it.

Health in Pingyao

  • Beware of Air Pollution: During certain times of the year, air pollution can be a problem in Pingyao. Consider wearing a mask and monitoring air quality levels if you have respiratory issues.

Getting to Pingyao: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pingyao is well connected by a variety of transportation options, making it easy to access whether you’re coming from near or far.

Airports Near Pingyao

  • Taiyuan Wusu International Airport: Located about 90 kilometers from Pingyao, this airport offers flights to major cities in China and internationally.

Bus Stations Near Pingyao

  • Pingyao Bus Station: This station provides connections to major cities and towns in the region.

Other Options

  • Train: Pingyao has its own train station, which connects the city to major destinations throughout China.
  • Charter Bus: Private buses are available for hire for groups or solo travelers, with a range of options for budget and luxury travel.

How to Get Around in Pingyao

Walking or biking are the best ways to get around Pingyao, as many areas of the city are pedestrian-only or closed to vehicles. For longer journeys, public buses or taxis are available.

Where to Go Next from Pingyao: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

From Pingyao, there are several other interesting destinations within easy reach. Here are a few options:

  • Wutai Mountain: This sacred mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning temples and natural beauty.
  • Yungang Grottoes: These ancient caves are home to a wealth of Buddhist sculptures and are a marvel of ancient engineering.
  • Xi’an: This historic city is home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, as well as a wealth of other historic landmarks and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Pingyao is a captivating destination that offers a taste of authentic Chinese culture and history. From its ancient city walls to its stunning temples and natural landscapes, there is plenty to see and do in Pingyao. With its welcoming residents, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, this fascinating city is a must-visit destination for any traveler to China.

One of the main streets of Pingyao after a rain shower. One of the main streets of Pingyao after a rain shower. Pinyao, China: Outer wall (west side) Pinyao, China: Outer wall (west side) Temple of the City God Temple of the City God Sculpture at Shuanglin Si Temple Sculpture at Shuanglin Si Temple Courtyard of traditional accommodation in Pingyao, China Courtyard of traditional accommodation in Pingyao, China