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In 1997 Pingyao became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient city is extremely well preserved and the only city in China to be surrounded by completely intact city walls.

It was a former financial centre during the Ming and Qing dynasties and is home to China’s earliest banks.

Many of the old courtyard houses along the main streets have been opened up as museums or even guesthouses, while the bustling backstreets are a hub of local activity.

Paper cutting

Pingyao is famous for paper cutting, a skill that has been passed down through the generations. Paper cuttings of various colours and sizes can be bought from traditional shops on Ming Qing Jie, Pingyao's central street.

There are also many antique shops and restaurants along this bustling street.

Speak to someone
who's been there
Audley Travel specialist Chris

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Pingyao by contacting one of our China specialists

Map of Pingyao

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    Places near Pingyao

    Our expert guides to exploring Pingyao

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Pingyao, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Pingyao at its best.

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      Songtsam Hotel, Shangri-la

      Characterful stays in China

      Characterful stays in China

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    Accommodation choices for Pingyao

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Pingyao. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    Price range

    We create trips as individual as you, so you won't find any set prices on our website. Your specialist will design your journey from scratch, selecting every element around your passions and preferences. The result is a unique itinerary with a unique price. This itinerary is just an idea, and our guide pricing is an indication of how much this kind of trip might cost, depending on factors like when you travel, how far in advance you plan, where you stay, and what you choose to experience.