Pingyao
Destination
Asia
Duration
4 days
Add Pingyao as an extension to your China adventure. Pingyao was originally established some 2700 years ago, during the reign of King Xuan (827-782 BC) of the Western Zhou Dynasty, and is considered the best ancient walled city in China. The original walls were made of tamped dirt and were located to the northeast of the present location. The current wall–faced with bricks and stone–was started in 1370, making it over 600 years old. Pingyao was also the center of the trade routes so be sure to visit the Rishengchang Exchange House, and the County Government Office or Qing Dynasty Yamen, as well as the Shuanglin and Zhenguo Temples.
Itinerary
Day 1 Taiyuan
Arrive Taiyuan and drive approximately four hours to Pingyao. En route to Pingyao, you will stop to visit the Jin Ci Temple. Overnight at a lovely traditional Chinese style courtyard inn.
Meals
Dinner
Lodging
Chinese Courtyard Inn
Day 2 Pingyao Ancient City
Today you’ll walk along Pingyao’s ancient city wall, and visit several of ancient courtyards and a complex of old private houses that have been converted into museums. Also visit the Qing Dynasty Yamen, or county magistrate’s complex. Today’s pace is leisurely, allowing you to absorb the atmosphere and relaxed ways of local life.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Chinese Courtyard Inn
Day 3 Jingsheng/Pingyao
Visit the 1,300-year-old Shuanglin Temple and Zhenguo Temple. After lunch, continue the drive to Jingsheng village in Lingshi County. Visit the Wang residence, the former living quarters of a prosperous local family. Spend about two hours wandering around before returning to your hotel for the night.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Chinese Courtyard Inn
Day 4 Pingyao/Onward
Transfer to the airport or train station in Taiyuan for your onward flight.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
What to Expect
Duration 4 days
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.