Pingyao Ancient City Family Travel Guide

Pingyao Ancient City Family Travel Guide🏮 This 2,800-year-old Ming and Qing dynasty ancient city is full of charm! Stroll through ancient alleys, savor local snacks, and take beautiful photos—it's like stepping back in time to the Ming and Qing eras!

🚶‍♀️Day 1: First Encounter with Pingyao
📍Pingyao Ancient City Wall: Climb the wall for a panoramic view. Enter from the South Gate and exit from the North Gate for the most stunning sunset (Ticket: ¥125, includes access to 22 attractions).
📍Ming-Qing Street: The busiest commercial street in the city, lined with Ming and Qing architecture, perfect for photos.
📍Tianjixiang Merchant House: The largest former bank in Pingyao—don’t miss the underground silver vault (closes at 5 PM).
🍜Dinner Recommendation: Jinsheng Lushipu, around ¥50 per person. Must-tries: Pingyao beef and bowl-shaped buckwheat noodles.

Day 2: Deep Dive into the Ancient City
📍County Government Office: The most intact ancient county office, with "court session" performances at 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 3:30 PM daily.
📍Rishengchang Exchange Shop: China’s first bank—check out the underground vault.
📍City God Temple: Exquisite painted sculptures; you can pray for a blessing charm here.
📍Ma Family Compound: A lavish merchant residence with a stunning backyard garden.
🍜Lunch Recommendation: Hongwuji Restaurant, famous for its delicious millet cakes (No. 84, South Street).

Day 3: Nearby Attractions
📍Shuanglin Temple: 6 km from the city, renowned for its painted sculptures (Ticket: ¥35).
📍"See Pingyao Again" Show: An immersive theater experience—highly recommended (Book in advance, ¥238).

🏨Accommodation Tips:
Stay inside the ancient city, preferably near Yamen Street or South Street for convenience. Traditional inns cost ¥200–300 per night and offer Shanxi-style heated brick beds.

💡Tips:
1. No cars allowed in the city—wear comfortable shoes.
2. The combo ticket is valid for 3 days, but each attraction can only be entered once.
3. Rent a traditional merchant family outfit for photos (¥50–80/set).
4. Take Bus 108 from Pingyao Station directly to the ancient city.

🍜Must-Try Foods:
- Pingyao Beef: Guanyun brand is the most authentic.
- Bowl-Shaped Buckwheat Noodles: A chilled buckwheat snack.
- Kaolaolao: Dipped in savory sauce.
- Sea Buckthorn Juice: A local specialty drink.