Ping Yao – Living History of China Within Ancient City Walls
Ping Yao is a charming, small town in Shanxi Province that has preserved its authentic, traditional character almost unchanged for over 2,000 years. The town’s greatest attraction is its impressive city walls, whose origins date back as far as 800 BCE, though their current form and reinforcements mainly come from the Ming dynasty (14th–17th centuries). These walls are 6 meters wide and 8 meters high, making them some of the best-preserved fortifications in China. Walking along the walls offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to feel the spirit of a bygone era while enjoying panoramic views of the old town.
The old town of Ping Yao is a true gem of Chinese architecture—narrow streets, traditional red-brick houses, wooden balconies, numerous temples, and craft shops. Once a vital commercial and financial hub during the Qing dynasty, its urban layout perfectly exemplifies a Chinese imperial city. Visitors should pay special attention to the many banks and merchant houses, which serve as reminders of Ping Yao’s former glory as a center of trade and finance.
Exploring the entire old town and accessing the city walls requires an entrance ticket, which in 2023 cost 150 RMB and included access to about 20 attractions. Although the price may seem steep, it is well worth the investment to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this remarkable place. Ping Yao is ideal for a day trip from Beijing, but the town’s atmosphere and charm make staying overnight or even for a couple of days worthwhile—especially in the evening when lanterns light up the streets.
Although taxi drivers often offer rides on electric carts or rickshaws around the historic part of town, it’s important to know that the old town center is closed to motorized traffic, making such rides impractical and sometimes uncomfortable.
The best way to reach Ping Yao is by train from Beijing or Xi’an. The overnight train journey takes about 10 hours, so it’s advisable to book sleeper berths well in advance for a comfortable trip that allows you to rest before exploring.
Fact: Ping Yao was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997 as one of the best-preserved traditional cities in China, highlighting its exceptional historical and cultural value.
This is a place where you can not only see ancient walls and monuments but also experience what life was like in imperial China—from daily customs and craftsmanship to the traditional ways of its inhabitants.
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