Private Day Tour in Pingyao Including Zhenguo and Shuanglin Temple

Pingyao , China

Private Day Tour in Pingyao Including Zhenguo and Shuanglin Temple

Active

8h - 10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private one-day tour offers you an opportunity to explore Pingyao Ancient City, a World Heritage Site. Attractions you will visit during this day trip to the old town include Old City Wall of Pingyao, Bank Institutes, Confucius Temple, County Yamun, Shuanglin Temple, Zhenguo Temple and many more so you could be fully exposed to the fantastic history of 200 years old Pinyao.

Available options

Tour

Tour package<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Local guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Entrance fees

Lunch

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

At 8:30am, your guide will pick you up from your Pingyao hotel or Pingyao Railway Station, and then start to visit the old town Pingyao. Pingyao was inducted as an World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, and renown for its layout which is conforming to a typical bagua pattern that can be dated back to Ming and Qing dynasties. There are more than 300 sites of ancient ruins in or near the city; however, nearly 4,000 Ming and Qing style residences are well preserved till this date. The streets and storefronts still remain in their historical appearance.
Pingyao used to be the financial center of China in late Qing Dynasty. You could wander around Old City Wall of Pingyao, Confucius Temple, Rishenchang Bank Institute, Yamun and etc.. After exploring those attractions, you will enjoy the local lunch. Beef and noodles are typical local food in Pingyao where you could easily find them at any local restaurant.

Zhengguo Temple is not far from Pingyao city, which has well-preserved statues, paintings that are very vivid.

Stop 3

Then you will visit the Shuanglin Temple that is near the city Pingyao. It is renown for its splendid skill to make the clay Buddha statues.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your Pingyao hotel or train station where the tour concludes.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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