Pingyao, officially Pingyao Ancient City, is a walled city in central Shanxi, China, famed for its importance in Chinese economic history and for its well-preserved Ming and Qing urban planning and architecture. Administratively, it comprises the town of Gutao in Pingyao County, Jinzhong.

Top Attractions:

1. Pingyao Ancient City Wall: Explore the Pingyao Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Walk or cycle along the 6-kilometer-long wall to enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
2. Rishengchang Former Bank: Visit Rishengchang Former Bank, the first draft bank in China and a symbol of Pingyao's historic significance as a financial center during the Qing Dynasty. Explore the museum inside the bank to learn about its role in ancient banking and finance.
3. Pingyao Ancient Town: Wander through Pingyao Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. Explore narrow lanes, ancient courtyards, and traditional shops selling handicrafts, antiques, and local specialties.
4. Shuanglin Temple: Discover Shuanglin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite wooden sculptures and colorful frescoes dating back over 1,500 years. Admire the intricate craftsmanship and Buddhist artwork inside this ancient temple complex.
5. Qiao Family Compound: Visit the Qiao Family Compound, a well-preserved traditional Chinese mansion belonging to the influential Qiao family. Explore its courtyards, halls, and gardens, and learn about the lifestyle and history of the Qiao family through exhibits and artifacts.
6. Ming and Qing Street: Stroll along Ming and Qing Street, a historic commercial street lined with traditional buildings, shops, and restaurants. Experience the charm of old Pingyao as you explore the bustling street and sample local snacks and delicacies.
7. Ancient City Gates: Admire the ancient city gates of Pingyao, including Zhenguo Gate, Shuncheng Gate, and Qingxu Gate. Marvel at the intricate architecture, defensive structures, and historical significance of these well-preserved gateways.

Things to Do:

1. Pingyao International Photography Festival: Visit Pingyao during the Pingyao International Photography Festival, held annually in September. Explore exhibitions, photography workshops, and cultural events celebrating the art of photography in a historic setting.
2. Pingyao Ancient City Lantern Festival: Experience the Pingyao Ancient City Lantern Festival, held during the Chinese New Year period. Marvel at colorful lantern displays, traditional performances, and festive celebrations throughout the ancient town.
3. Traditional Shadow Puppetry: Watch traditional Chinese shadow puppetry performances in Pingyao. Experience this ancient art form featuring intricately crafted puppets, storytelling, and live music in a cultural showcase of Pingyao's heritage.
4. Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Shanxi cuisine at local restaurants and eateries in Pingyao Ancient Town. Enjoy specialties such as Pingyao beef, savory pastries, and hand-pulled noodles, and savor the flavors of authentic Shanxi flavors.
5. Biking Tours: Explore the countryside and surrounding villages of Pingyao on a biking tour. Cycle through scenic landscapes, visit historic sites, and interact with locals to experience rural life in Shanxi Province.
6. Traditional Crafts Workshops: Participate in traditional crafts workshops in Pingyao, such as paper cutting, dough figurine making, or Chinese calligraphy. Learn from local artisans and create your own handmade souvenirs to take home.
7. Homestay Experience: Stay in a traditional courtyard-style guesthouse or homestay in Pingyao Ancient Town to experience local hospitality and immerse yourself in the city's historic atmosphere. Enjoy authentic accommodations, home-cooked meals, and personalized experiences with local hosts.