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P E E K A R O U N D P I N G Y A O
the city back when it was a key trading
center on the route between Beijing
and Xi’an.
Nowadays Pingyao is reached by
direct train from both Beijing and Xi’an.
Tourists arrive on the overnight sleeper
train from Beijing West Station and
start exploring the city as early as 8am.
There’s a lot to explore. Many of
Pingyao’s historic business buildings
have been restored and several
merchant-family courtyard mansions
are open to visitors. A ticket (available
from counters close to the north and
west gates or at the junction of West
and North streets) allows entrance
to several must-see landmarks:
Rishengchang Bank, widely considered
China’s first draft bank built in 1823,
during the Qing Dynasty; a 12th-
century Confucian Temple; the City
Wall; and up to 20 other sights. It costs
RMB150 (PHP993) and is valid for
three days. Some places of interest are
not included in the ticket price; entrance
to Market Tower is RMB5 (PHP33).
Clockwise from top:
A view of Pingyao’s
roofline from the
central Market
Tower; encounter
plenty of horse-
drawn vehicles; buy
the perfect souvenirs
from stalls on
South Street
PHOTOS
MARK PARREN TAYLOR
Perfect souvenirs
Antique and repro shops along
South Street offer various
collectible items, including Red
Guard badges. Other boutiques
specialize in local foods such
as cookies, Shanxi vinegar and
packets of Pingyao beef. Local
handicrafts are available in the
form of lovely lacquerware and
cloth shoes.
