The real Pingyao is found away from the main streets of the ancient city

The four main streets of Pingyao Ancient City are where most tourists gather and are also the places where it's least necessary to spend much time. Apart from some chargeable attractions, only the City Tower at the intersection of South and North Main Streets is somewhat more attractive. Beyond that, there are just low-quality shops everywhere, and even buying a bottle of vinegar requires haggling, giving me a feeling reminiscent of traveling a decade ago. Entering the ancient city of Pingyao doesn't even compare to the experience at the completely newly built Xinzhou Ancient City. However, when you move away from these four main streets and wander along other small paths, you may see the true Pingyao Ancient City, with its sparse tourists, dilapidated walls, protruding bricks and stones, and messy wires, all of which together record the rise and fall of this city. About other aspects of the ancient city Near the north gate of the ancient city, the road is under construction, making the drive to the ancient city extremely congested and parking difficult. There is also no one directing traffic, so if you plan to stay near the ancient city, it's recommended to choose a hotel that offers parking. The ancient city is quite large, and staying inside is actually not convenient. Previous guides mentioned that tickets for small attractions in the ancient city could be bought separately, but upon arrival, I found that only a combined ticket is available. If you want to go up on the city wall, you must also buy the combined ticket. Many small roads in the ancient city are under construction, with dirt everywhere and wires held up by unsightly iron frames. Now is not the best time to visit the ancient city.