Pingyao Ancient City

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Pingyao Ancient City
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Pingyao has one of the best preserved old towns in China. Exploring its buildings, streets and city wall takes you back in time.

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City wall

The old city is enclosed by an ancient defensive wall 12 meters (40 feet) high and over 6 kilometers (miles) long. It dates back to the 14th century. Considering its age, the wall is in good condition (though a small section collapsed as recently as October 2004).

Streets

Within the walls are narrow cobblestone streets, lanes and alleys. South Street is the main thoroughfare and is now lined on both sides with quaint shops, museums and hotels.

Old mansions

The preserved mansions, both residential and commercial, have courtyards and are hidden from public view behind street doors. However, some are now open to the public. The most fascinating is the 19th century Ri Sheng Chang mansion. It is now a museum, but was once the headquarters of one of China's most powerful banks.

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History in brief

Historians can trace Pingyao back 2700 years. However, its glory days occurred during the Ming (1369-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) Dynasties. In the 19th century, it reached its peak as one of China's chief financial centers.

Movie

The internationally acclaimed 1992 movie, "Raise the Red Lantern", was shot in Pingyao and environs.

Qiao compound

If you have time, visit the Qiao compound situated 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Pingyao. It is a well preserved stylish 18th century residence of a very wealthy family.

Nearest major city

Pingyao is about 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Taiyuan, the capital city of Shanxi province.

Pronunciation guide

Pingyao:   pin'g-yow'oh

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