Pingyao Day Tour: Wang Family Mansion and Zhangbi Ancient Castle
Active
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
Wang Family Mansion and Zhangbi Ancient Castle are two attractions we highly recommended when you visit Pingyao Old Town area. These two sites are full of unique highlights and features of their own despite no easy access by public transportation. You will surely get more out of your valuable time with an English-speaking tour guide, a private car and driver for a hassle-free and organized tour than simply visiting them on your own.
Available options
Pingyao Day Tour: Wang Family Mansion and Zhangbi Ancient Castle
Pickup included
What's included
Entrance tickets as listed in the tour
Transfer by reliable driver and air-conditioned vehicle
A friendly and experienced English-speaking tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
At 9:00 am, your tour guide, personal car, and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Pingyao Old Town for 1.5-hour drive to Wang Family Mansion and Zhangbi Ancient Castle.
Wang Family Mansion is nicknamed ‘the Forbidden City of the Peasant Residences’. Its construction took nearly over 300 years by the efforts of several generations of the Wang family. You can imagine how large and prosperous the Wang Family was in its prime. Its architecture and decorations reflected the sense of strict social hierarchy in ancient time. Those intricate carvings and statues all have special meanings and stories behind them.
2
Zhangbi Ancient Castle is nestled inside of a small village. It is unique for its ingeniously designed underground tunnels spreading into three complex and connected layers. It was built according to ancient Chinese astrology, and its purpose was mainly to hoard up weapons and some armed force as well. You will be greeted by a magnificent view of mountains when you step out of the castle.
After the tour, you will be transfer back to Pingyao Old Town at around 17:00.
What's not included
Gratuities
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Important notes
Note: In the evening (between 6-8 pm) before tour, your tour guide will contact you through your hotel reception to confirm the exact pick-up time for the next day.
Contact our customer service number for more assistance.
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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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
