Pingyao, Shanxi

A history of the rise of an ancient city 📜 Pingyao Ancient City was built in the Western Zhou Dynasty, expanded in the third year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, and became a financial center in the Qing Dynasty. It was home to many Jin merchants and the first bank in China, Rishengchang. 🎫Tickets: Free entry to the city + some attractions (Ancient City Pass CNY 125) ⏰Duration: 6–12 hours 🤤Food: Tianyuan Kui (Long Eggplant, Rotten Cabbage, Pingyao Beef, Vinegar Egg, Yellow Rice Cake, Eight Treasures Tea) 🏨Accommodation: Yunjincheng Mansion ⛱️Essentials ID🎫: ID card, student ID Clothing👔: Choose according to the season. In winter, we recommend a down jacket with a hood, scarf, and gloves. Other⚠️: Power bank 💡Tips: 1️⃣ Walk on the main street at night. There are few street lights in the alleys, so bring a flashlight. 2️⃣ The play "Again, Pingyao" (CNY 238, 1.5 hours) is worth seeing. Book tickets in advance. 3️⃣ The sightseeing bus in the ancient city costs CNY 10 for a one-way trip, regardless of the destination. 4️⃣ We recommend doing some research before taking Jin merchant-style photos. 5️⃣ Shuanglin Temple near the ancient city is highly recommended. 6️⃣ Drive safely in winter. The roads may be icy or snowy. 🌈Fun fact: The origin of the name "Turtle City" for Pingyao Ancient City. From above, the south gate (Yingxun Gate) is the turtle's head, the north gate (Gongji Gate) is the turtle's tail, and the four gates in the east and west are the turtle's limbs.