Rishengchang Bank, located on West Street in Pingyao Ancient City, Shanxi Province, is one of the earliest exchange shops in China. Established in 1823 during the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911),  the rectangular compound of Rishengchang Former Bank faces north with 65 meters long and 20 meters wide, and a total area over 1,300 square meters.  At that time, it had over 35 branches in China's major cities. In 1995, Shanxi Provincial Government listed it as a Provincial Key Cultural Relic under the Reservation, and now  it is the Chinese Exchange Shop Museum.

During the Qing Dynasty China's currency was silver coin and there were obvious problems relating to security and convenience if traders had to carry large sums of money in coin form. The exchange shops of Rishengchang Bank offered a convenient alternative and thus Rishengchang Bank acquired the reputation of Huitong Tianxia, which means the silver coin and the bills of the exchange could reach every part of the country. Before the establishment of the modern banking system the Rishengchang Former Bank had a great influence on the Chinese economy during the 108 years between its opening and ultimate demise in bankruptcy. 

What you can see today is the original Rishengchang Former Bank which was fully restored in 1995. The shop is within a compound with three courtyards. 

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Travel Tips
Add:  No. 38 West Street, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City
Entrance Fees: CNY 125 ( This is the ticket fare of Pingyao Ancient City combo ticket, including a visit to almost all scenic sites in the ancient city). 
Opening Hours: 08:00-17:30

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