The ancient city of Pingyao in China is a fascinating place located in the province of Shanxi. As well as it impress you with its ancient architecture, this place has an enormous wall around it. Among all of this, you will be able to discover all the temples and secrets that this city holds.
Things to do
In this way, in every corner, you will be able to enjoy its culture and the particular life of its inhabitants. Enjoy the rhythmic chopping sounds, its itinerant peach sellers but among all of this: the ancient city, the Shuanglin Temple and Zhenguo Temple are among the main places you can not miss.
Ancient City
You’ll access it through the various doors behind the charming walls with elaborate canopies of carved wood and brick. If you are a lover of different cultures, you can appreciate its particular restaurants and shops for tourists.
In the same way, this city preserves its details without falling into artificial antiquity. You’ll be able to admire the magical City Tower in The South Street and take some beautiful photos.
Shuanglin Temple
Right in Zhongdu City southwest of Pingyao County, you will find the Shuanglin Temple. This is one of the most important places in Pingyao, full of beautiful and stunning sculptures.
Also, this site is known to have a history of over 1400 years. You can tour its ten halls: the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Skya Hall, Great Buddha Hall, and Goddess Niangniang Hall. Inside them, you can enjoy magnificent sculptures, religious shrines and impressive architecture that will teach you all the secrets you want to discover.
Zhenguo Temple
Known as the Civil Forbidden City, this place is located northeast of Pingyao, in the village of Hadongcun. Thus, this is the oldest Buddhist temple in China. If you’re a history lover, you’ll be enchanted with this place. It also
shows the only examples of Buddhist sculpture of the tenth century in China.
Also, within it, you will find the Wanfo Hall, with eleven sculptures of the Northern Han dynasty, the only survivors of their time. You’ll love the history of this place.
How to get there
Pingyao has no airport, so the easiest way to get there is by train. This place has two railway stations.
You can take this train from the imperial China capitals of Beijing an Xi’an.
- From Beijing West Station: is a journey of 8 hours and 55 minutes to Tongren South and over there you can grab a taxi to Pingyao.
- From Shi Tushuguan Station: you’ll have to make some transfers. First one in Bei Kezhan to Xian North, then change train in Zunyi and finally take your taxi in Tongren South to Pingyao. It is 12-hours and 30 minutes travel.
When to go
Late in spring through early fall are the best times to visit Pingyao. You can also go in winter while you avoid Chinese New Year because the transportation gets hard to come by.
How long
To get to know this city and truly enjoy its secrets and magnificent temples around 2-3 days will be enough. Likewise, you will be able to rest from the long journey of arrival and calmly enjoy the culture of Pingyao.
Opening and Closing hours
- Ancient City: the Old city opens all day. If you want to visit specific spots inside the city they open from March to November from 8 a.m until 6 p.m. Also, from December to February they open from 8 a.m until 5:30 p.m.
- Shuanglin Temple: Opens from 8 a.m to 7 p.m everyday. Zhenguo Temple: Opens from 8 a.m to 5:30 p.m
Planning
To get to Pingyao you can’t book your bus tickets in advance by yourself. It is necessary to talk to someone in the hotel or the travel agency so they can help you.
Take your precautions on holidays because of the high demand for bus tickets, at this time, it is easier to get train tickets.
The local hotels will give you a unique experience with their decorations. You can book them easily about five minutes away from South Street. On the other hand, to visit the temples you don’t need book in advance.
Don’t forget to look for a tour guide to help you with the language barrier. At the same time, he will be able to explain you all the history of the city and its buildings.
Inside Information
Pingyao has a continental climate, featuring moderate and arid climate. The temperature can drop to 10ºC. So remember to bring your coats and your best walking shoes. This city has about 2.6 km2 of distance to travel.
Also, this is a very famous tourist spot among the Chinese, be prepared for the crowds.
History
In 1370, during the Ming dynasty, the city of Pingyao seized strength to defend China from the Mongols. This reinforcement consisted of building 33 feet (10 meters) walls, fortified gates, and corner towers.
Today, these constructions are still standing surrounding the city. Over there, you can admire the Ming-era mansions, once the home of merchants and bankers.
Websites
- whc.unesco.org/en/list/812
- www.worldheritagesite.org/sites/pingyao.html
Other nearby attractions
Take advantage of the high-speed train transfer so you can get to know other cities that are just as fascinating. For example, beyond Pingyao on the way to Taijuan, you will be able to explore much more of Shanxi history. On the other hand, to the north in Datong, you can admire the grottoes arts.
Pingyao is a city with many historical and cultural connections with other cities. In all of them, you will be able to have a greater knowledge of all that China is and its secrets.
Likewise, if you go to Pingyao do not forget to visit the residences of the Wang and Qjao Families, both great and impressive and are only an hour away from the city.
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