Pingyao in One Day: Including City Highlights and Shuanglin Temple Private Tour

Pingyao , China

Pingyao in One Day: Including City Highlights and Shuanglin Temple Private Tour

Active

6h - 8h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get to know Pingyao in one day on this private full-day tour with a guide. Traveling by air-conditioned vehicle, see top Pingyao attractions such as Pingyao ancient town, City Wall, Confucius Temple, Temple of City God, Ming and Qing Dynasty Street and Rishengchang Former Bank. Break for a local lunch, then explore the 1,400 years old Shuanglin Temple which is reputed to be the 'ancient painted sculptures museum'. This private tour including English speaking tour guide, entrance fee, lunch and travel by private vehicle.

Available options

Pingyao in One Day: Including City Highlights and Shuanglin Temple Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Travel by private vehicle

Lunch

Entrance Fee

Detailed itinerary

Your tour guide will pick you up in your hotels lobby, then start your walking tour of the Ancient City of Pingyao. Follow your tour guide to explore the city highlights.

Founded during the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046 – 771 BC) and rebuilt in 1370, the Pingyao old city is listed as the UNESCO site. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of old times lifestyle and appreciate the charms of old China. Feel free to discuss with your tour guide on where you want to go in the old city.

Typically you will start from the Pingyao Old City Wall.

The City Wall of Pingyao is one of the well-preserved walls in China. In 1997, the City Wall along with the Ancient Town was listed as one of the World Cultural Heritage. Follow your tour guide to stroll around the area.

Next, discover the shops and restaurants along the Ancient Ming-Qing Street, feel the atmosphere of the flourishing businesses and admire the Ming and Qing style architecture. Here is the best place to shop for your souvenirs.

Continue to explore one of the best preserved temples in China- Tempe of the City God. Admire its wonderful woodcarvings, stone sculptures, painted sculptures and mural paintings which reflect excellent craftsmanship at that time.

Afterwards, heading to Pingyao Confucian Temple. Founded as early as in the Tang Dynasty (618 - 908 AD), Pingyao Confucian Temple is one of the oldest and currently the best-preserved of its kind in China. Stroll around the courtyards and halls with your guide, get to know Confucius (551 - 478 BC), who is a famous philosopher, educator and the founder of the Confucian school.

Next, visit the museum of the first bank of China, get to know its history and stories behind

Stop 7

Enjoy lunch in the local restaurant, then spend time to explore the UNESCO site of Shuanglin Temple.

Shuanglin Temple is reputed to be the 'ancient painted sculptures museum'. It houses more than 2,000 colorful sculptures reflecting the exquisite skills of the artisans of the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Stroll around the halls and courtyards with your tour guide, admire the 1,400 years paintings and sculptures. Get to know the history, stories behind and learn the history about the Buddhism in China. Feel free to ask your tour guide if you have any questions.

After the tour finished, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Pingyao.

What's not included

Accommodation

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Pingyao

Pingyao is a beautifully preserved ancient walled city in northern China, renowned for its well-maintained Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese urban life.

Top Attractions

Pingyao Ancient City Wall

The ancient city wall is one of the best-preserved and most complete city walls in China. It dates back to the Ming Dynasty and encircles the entire ancient city.

Historical 1-2 hours 50 CNY

Ming and Qing Street

This bustling street is lined with traditional shops, restaurants, and teahouses, offering a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Pingyao.

Historical 1-2 hours Varies by purchase

Shuanglin Temple

Shuanglin Temple is a Buddhist temple known for its impressive collection of colorful clay sculptures, dating back to the Tang and Ming dynasties.

Religious 1-2 hours 40 CNY

Zhenguo Temple and Pingyao Museum

This temple and museum complex showcases the history and culture of Pingyao, with exhibits on the city's ancient financial system and notable figures.

Historical 1-2 hours 30 CNY

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pingyao Knife-Cut Noodles

Hand-cut noodles served in a savory beef or lamb broth, topped with vegetables and sometimes eggs. The noodles are unique in shape and texture, made by slapping the dough on a wooden board.

Noodles Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian

Pingyao Dumplings

Steamed or boiled dumplings filled with minced meat (usually pork or beef) and vegetables. The dough is made from a combination of wheat and buckwheat flour, giving the dumplings a unique texture.

Dumplings Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian

Pingyao Flatbread (Pingyao Bing)

A type of flatbread made from wheat flour, water, and a pinch of salt. The dough is rolled out thin and cooked on a hot griddle, resulting in a crispy and delicious bread that can be enjoyed with various dips and spreads.

Bread Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking around the ancient city wall Biking through the countryside Tea tasting at local teahouses Strolling along Ming and Qing Street Visiting historic temples and museums Participating in traditional craft workshops Enjoying hot pot and other warm dishes Exploring the ancient city during the winter festivals

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Pingyao as the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the ancient city. The scenery is also at its best during these months.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Pingyao is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's essential to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and agree on a price before starting your journey
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Taiyuan Wusu International Airport • 100 km from Pingyao

By train

Pingyao Railway Station

By bus

Pingyao Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Renting a bicycle is a popular and convenient way to explore Pingyao. Bikes are available for rent at various locations throughout the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ancient City Outer City

Day trips

Shuanglin Temple

2 km from Pingyao • Half day

Shuanglin Temple is a Buddhist temple known for its impressive collection of colorful clay sculptures, dating back to the Tang and Ming dynasties. The temple's historic halls and courtyards offer a glimpse into the rich religious and artistic heritage of the region.

Qiao Family Compound

30 km from Pingyao • Full day

The Qiao Family Compound is a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This well-preserved complex features a maze of courtyards, halls, and pavilions, showcasing the wealth and power of the Qiao family during the Qing Dynasty.

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda

100 km from Pingyao • Full day

The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is the oldest and tallest wooden pagoda in China, dating back to the Liao Dynasty. This impressive structure is a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Chinese craftsmen and offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history.

Festivals

Pingyao International Photography Festival • September Pingyao Chinese New Year Celebrations • January/February (lunar calendar) Pingyao Lantern Festival • February (lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Visit Pingyao during the shoulder seasons (March and November) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather
Explore the ancient city on foot or by bicycle to fully appreciate its charm and atmosphere
Try local specialties, such as Pingyao knife-cut noodles and dumplings, at traditional restaurants and street stalls
Attend the Pingyao International Photography Festival if your visit coincides with the event, as it offers a unique and vibrant atmosphere
Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain a deeper understanding of Pingyao's history and culture