1-Day Pingyao tour to Wang Family's Compound and Zhangbi Ancient Fortress

Pingyao , China

1-Day Pingyao tour to Wang Family's Compound and Zhangbi Ancient Fortress

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About this experience

Visit the highlights of Pingyao including the Wang Family's Compound, Zhangbi Ancient Fortress and Shuanglin Temple with this private day tour from Pingyao.
You will be picked and dropped off at the Pingyao hotel/train station.

Available options

1-Day Pingyao tour to Wang Family's Compound and Zhangbi Ancient Fortress

Pickup included

What's included

The private car & private guide

The entrance tickets

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Our guide will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel at around 09:00 in the morning. You will be escorted to the well-known Wang Family's Compound in around 1.5 hours' ride.

Stop 2

It is a large and magnificent architectural complex originally built around 250 years ago and Located in Lingshi County in Shanxi Province, the Wang Family's Compound is 35 kilometers (22 miles) away from Pingyao Ancient City. This luxurious residence was originally built during 1762-1811 by the descendants of the Wang Family. What makes this compound so impressive are the sheer size and gorgeous ornamental structures. It is like a mini walled city with more than 200 courtyards, each of them has its own distinctive features. The intricately carved wood doors, window casings, stairways, stone carvings, etc. could be found everywhere in the courtyards.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Zhangbi Ancient Fortress where you will go through the maze-like underground tunnels.
Different from the compounds and ancient city, Zhangbi Ancient Fortress is an exception of Shanxi merchants' culture. To resist the invasion of enemies, Chinese ancestors made full use of its geographic advantages and built a 10,000-meter long underground military tunnels with three floors in the village. Zhangbi Ancient Fortress is a complex of historical relics, tombs, residences and tunnels, in which the labyrinth-like underground tunnels are the most interesting.

Stop 4

After lunch, we will drive you back. On the way, you will pay a visit to Shuanglin Temple, which is different from many other temples for it still maintains its very old character.

Shuanglin Temple is a peaceful, quiet and beautiful old temple. It is one of the three treasures of Pingyao, having been included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1997. Praised as the 'ancient painted sculptures museum', this temple houses as many as 2056 colorful sculptures of Chinese Buddhism reflecting the exquisite skills of the artisans of the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties. The sculpture of One-thousand Hand Kwan-yin is definitely the most mesmerizing.

At the end,we drive you back to your hotel or see you off at Pingyao Railway Station.

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair accessible

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