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History of Pingyao
The birthplace of the Jin Businessmen (one of the two power houses during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties), it played an important role in the economic development of Shanxi during that period. The first Chinese trading shop was opened there. Then, for the next hundred years, the city was home to almost all of the large trading shops in the country. To a certain extent, the city played a role to China during the eighteenth century what Wall Street is to the US.
It is no longer very prosperous, but the grand Pingyao Old City, which was constructed a thousand years ago, stands the test of time. It was mentioned in the World Cultural Heritage in 1997, alongside with the Zhenguo Temple and Shuanglin Temple also in the vicinity. Wandering along the Ancient Ming and Qing Street amidst rows of residences inside the old town, you can still sense its former grandeur.
What to see in Pingyao?
Pingyao Ancient City is one of the most intact ancient cities in China with a history of more than 1,500 years. It is also known as the 'Turtle City' suggesting longevity and never declining. The 6 kilometers long brick City Wall has wall towers and turrets positioned along its length which would be effective in wartime and have a decorative function on the framework of the wall. The ancient city is made up of four major streets, eight lesser streets and seventy-two lanes. The South Street, also called the Ancient Ming and Qing Street, is the busiest commercial center of Pingyao. Along the street stand stores of Ming and Qing architectural styles. Here lists top attractions in Pingyao Ancient City
When to visit Pingyao?
Pingyao weather is mild and dry in general with four distinct seasons. January is the coldest time with low temperatures of -10~-5ºC . July is the hottest with high temperatures of 25~30ºC . September to November is the best time to visit as the weather of Pingyao is cool with not much rain. Try to avoid October 1st to 7th, Chinese National Holiday, when it is quite crowded. In late September every year, the China Pingyao International Photography Festival is held, which is worth a visit. Traveling in January is also a good choice. It is relatively cold, but there are abundant activities and performances during the Chinese New Year celebration.
How to reach Pingyao?
There is no designated airport. The closest airport is Taiyuan Wusu International Airport. You get to Pingyao by trains and long-distance buses. Those who want to go by trains can board regular trains from Beijing, Taiyuan, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an, and Lanzhou as well as bullet trains from Beijing, Taiyuan, Xi'an, and Yuncheng. Long-distance buses are also acceptable means of transport.
Travel Tips
1. Dining in Pingyao: Wheat based food is the main local staple. Different kinds of noodles and snacks are served in the old town. Wantuo and Kao Laolao are popular snacks. Beef and yam are served in almost all restaurants here.
2. Shopping in Pingyao: Once an ancient trade center, shopping is made easy at all times. In the old city, some small specialty stores are dotted here and there, where one can buy exquisite souvenirs. Cured beef, polished lacquer ware, and hand-made shoes are much sought after. Department stores and supermarkets have sprung up in the Old City where one can pick up everyday necessities.
3. Nghtlife in Pingyao: Folk cultural performances complete in period regalia, are an attractive way to summarize local history and culture. Nightlife in a small town or suburbia is not like that in large cities, but there are late opening bars in the old town.
4. Accommodation in Pingyao: Local hotels present unique experiences. Most of them are decorated as a remake of Ming and Qing style, wonderful for visitors who want to go back in times. Yide Hotel is highly recommended in this respect. It is in a quiet little alley a few minutes' walk from South Street (Nan Dajie), the main street. It is a well renovated courtyard house built in the reign of Emperor Qianlong. Yunjincheng Folk Hotel and Tian Yuan Kui Guesthouse are also adequate choices.
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