Day 1: Arrival in Pingyao | Pingyao Ancient City
Arrive in Pingyao around noon by high-speed train from Xi’an, Mount Wutai, or Taiyuan. Your local guide will meet you at Pingyao Railway Station and transfer you to the heart of Pingyao Ancient City.
In the afternoon, begin exploring this remarkable historic town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved ancient walled cities in China. Walk through the narrow stone-paved streets and discover traditional courtyard residences, historic government offices, old shops, and beautifully preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings.
Pingyao flourished as an important commercial and financial center, particularly through the development of Shanxi’s merchant networks. As you explore the ancient streets, you will gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history and the important role it played in China’s traditional commerce and banking.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic stay in a traditional courtyard inn inside Pingyao Ancient City. Staying within the old town allows you to experience its traditional architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after the daytime visitors have left.
Day 2: Qiao Family Compound – Shuanglin Temple – Pingyao Ancient City (B, Breakfast)
After breakfast, drive to the renowned Qiao Family Compound, a magnificent example of traditional Shanxi courtyard architecture. Built during the Qing Dynasty, the complex was the residence of the prosperous Qiao merchant family.
Explore its interconnected courtyards and admire the elegant traditional buildings, intricate wood carvings, decorative brickwork, and stone details. The compound offers an insight into the lifestyle and architectural traditions of Shanxi’s wealthy merchant families. It also gained international recognition as one of the filming locations for Zhang Yimou’s acclaimed movie Raise the Red Lantern.
After the visit, continue to Shuanglin Temple, located near Pingyao. The temple is part of the Ancient City of Pingyao UNESCO World Heritage Site and is particularly famous for its extraordinary collection of ancient painted clay sculptures.
Inside the temple halls, you can see more than 2,000 colorful sculptures representing Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, guardians, and other figures. Dating from different periods, including the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, these sculptures are celebrated for their vivid colors, expressive details, and outstanding craftsmanship.
In the afternoon, return to Pingyao Ancient City and enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. Wander through the historic streets, browse traditional shops, try local Shanxi snacks, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere of this beautifully preserved ancient town.
Stay overnight in Pingyao.
Day 3: Departure from Pingyao (B, Breakfast)
After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Pingyao Ancient City or take a final stroll through its historic streets.
At the appointed time, your guide will transfer you to Pingyao Railway Station for your high-speed train to your next destination.
Your memorable journey through Pingyao’s ancient architecture, Buddhist art, and Shanxi merchant heritage comes to an end.