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Pingyao

Visit Pingyao, China

Visit Pingyao, China

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In 1997 Pingyao became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient city is extremely well preserved and the only city in China to be surrounded by completely intact city walls.

It was a former financial centre during the Ming and Qing dynasties and is home to China’s earliest banks.

Many of the old courtyard houses along the main streets have been opened up as museums or even guesthouses, while the bustling backstreets are a hub of local activity.

Paper cutting

Pingyao is famous for paper cutting, a skill that has been passed down through the generations. Paper cuttings of various colours and sizes can be bought from traditional shops on Ming Qing Jie, Pingyao's central street.

There are also many antique shops and restaurants along this bustling street.

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Audley Travel specialist Chris

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Map of Pingyao

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Pingyao

    Photos of Pingyao

    • Pingyao rooftops from the ancient city walls
      Pingyao rooftops from the ancient city walls
    • Street in Pingyao
      Street in Pingyao
    • Pingyao Old Town
      Pingyao Old Town
    • Gushi Tower in Pingyao
      Gushi Tower in Pingyao
    • Pingyao, China
      Pingyao, China
    • Doorway in Pingyao, China
      Doorway in Pingyao, China
    • Pingyao, China
      Pingyao, China
    • View from Gushi Tower in Pingyao
      View from Gushi Tower in Pingyao

    Our expert guides to exploring Pingyao

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Pingyao, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Pingyao at its best.

    • Characterful stays in China
      Songtsam Hotel, Shangri-la

      Characterful stays in China

      Characterful stays in China

      Whether you’re staying in a converted farmhouse surrounded by countryside or a traditional Tibetan building overlooking a monastery, basing yourself in a boutique property during your holiday to China opens your eyes to new cultures and authentic local life. Country specialist Stephanie shares her recommendations.

      9 min read

      Read this guide

    Accommodation choices for Pingyao

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Pingyao. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.