Overview
The Ancient City of Pingyao is a remarkably well-preserved ancient city nestled in the heart of Shanxi Province. It is renowned for its traditional Chinese architecture and historic significance as a financial hub during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Pingyao is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its exceptional preservation of ancient Chinese urban planning and architecture.
Location
Address
Pingyao, China
Neighborhood: Ancient City Center
Coordinates
37.183300, 112.166700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Blossoming flowers
- • Spring festivals
summer
Hot and humid
- • Extended daylight hours
- • Outdoor performances
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • Harvest season
winter
Cold and occasionally snowy
- • Snow-covered streets
- • Holiday decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring a map of the ancient city
- Check the weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (lots of walking)
- • Stay hydrated
- • Wear sunscreen
Medical facilities: Basic first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash (CNY), Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual and comfortable, Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, Walking shoes or sneakers, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least a week in advance
- • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • Available for online tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Pingyao Ancient City Guide
Size: 65 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Historical information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes and restaurants
Charging Stations: Rest areas and cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Taiyuan Wusu International Airport
Distance: 110 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Pingyao is a source of local pride, representing the rich history and cultural heritage of the region
Historical Significance: Pingyao was one of the first financial hubs in ancient China, home to the earliest banks
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for locals, sometimes open to early visitors
- Best local food can be found at the back entrance of the ancient city
- Visit the night market for authentic street food
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local Shanxi noodles
- • Visit the local teahouses for a traditional experience
- • Ask for a guide who speaks English
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Chinese, English, Japanese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Ming and Qing Street
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Capture the traditional architecture and shop signs
Result: Vibrant and colorful shots of the ancient street
City Wall
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle shots of the entire wall and surrounding landscape
Result: Breathtaking views of the ancient city from above
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Shuanglin Temple
Distance: 6 km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Temple
Zhenguo Temple
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Temple
Pingyao Museum of Ming and Qing Dynasties
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online to skip the line"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Great views from the city wall"
- "Try the local snacks"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
47
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
¥75