Step into Time: Exploring Pingyao Ancient City and the Legacy of Shanxi's Merchants

When we travel, we're often searching for stories—old streets that whisper secrets, temples that echo with past prayers, and houses that once belonged to people who changed history. Pingyao Ancient City in Shanxi is one of those rare places where all of that still lives. Walking through its timeworn alleys feels like stepping into a living museum, but one that’s very much alive.

This place isn’t just about brick walls and pretty rooftops. Pingyao was once the financial heart of China, and the spirit of the old Shanxi merchants—known as Jinshang—still lingers in the air. If you're looking for a travel experience that blends culture, history, and a bit of mystery, Pingyao is a must-see.

What Makes Pingyao So Special?

I’ll be honest—I didn’t expect to be so enchanted by Pingyao. But once you step inside the preserved city walls, everything slows down.

• The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with architecture that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

• The streets are lined with traditional courtyards, banks, temples, and shops that look much as they did centuries ago.

• You can learn all about Jinshang, the wealthy and powerful merchants of Shanxi who dominated China's economy for hundreds of years.

For history lovers, it's a goldmine. But even if you’re not a huge fan of museums, Pingyao has a charm that draws you in—with its lantern-lit nights, steaming local snacks, and red-painted doors that seem to invite you in for a story.

Don’t Miss: The Magic of Painted Sculptures

Just a short drive from Pingyao (about 20 minutes) is Shuanglin Temple, home to one of my favorite surprises on the trip: centuries-old 彩塑 (colored clay sculptures). These aren’t just dusty statues—they’re full of emotion, color, and movement. Each figure, whether it’s a Buddha or a guardian spirit, feels alive.

It’s quiet here, too. I remember walking through the temple halls almost alone, hearing only the creak of wooden floors and the birds outside. It’s a peaceful moment that sticks with you.

More to Explore: Qujia Courtyard Compound

Another great stop, about 40 minutes from Pingyao, is the Qujia Dayuan (Qu Family Courtyard). This isn’t your average tourist site—it’s a grand family mansion that tells the story of how the merchant elite lived.

Walking through the courtyards and rooms, I got a real sense of how wealthy Shanxi families lived, worked, and conducted business. You can almost imagine the deals being made over tea or the kids running through the halls.

It’s less crowded than Pingyao’s main streets, and that made it feel even more personal. If you're planning to spend two days in the area, this makes a perfect day-trip option.

Planning Your Route

Here’s what worked for me—and might work for you too:

• Day 1: Explore the Pingyao Ancient City. Spend the full day walking the city wall, visiting the Rishengchang Bank (China’s first bank), and taking in the local food scene.

• Day 2 (Morning): Head to Shuanglin Temple to admire the painted sculptures. It’s a peaceful way to start the day.

• Day 2 (Afternoon): Visit the Qujia Courtyard. You’ll understand more about the daily life of the Jinshang families.

• Transportation: If you're not fluent in Chinese, it might be easier to hire a driver for the day or join a local tour that covers these sites. Taxi apps like Didi can help, but coverage may vary in small towns.

A Few Personal Tips

• Wear comfy shoes. You’ll be walking on old stone streets that can be uneven.

• Avoid big holidays. Pingyao gets packed during major Chinese festivals.

• Bring cash and a translation app. Some shops and sites might not accept international cards.

• Book accommodations inside the ancient city walls. It’s magical waking up in a traditional inn with wooden beams and red lanterns.

• Keep your phone handy. There are signs in English, but having a translation app makes things smoother.

Final Thoughts: Why I Loved Pingyao

Travel, for me, is about slowing down and connecting—with people, places, and stories. Pingyao offers all of that. Whether it’s watching a shadow puppet show in a tiny theater, sipping Shanxi vinegar at a street stall, or simply watching the sunset from the city wall, there’s something deeply grounding about this place.

And when you leave, you won’t just take photos—you’ll take stories. Stories of merchants and monks, of colors painted centuries ago, and of a little city that once ruled the world of business.