谋生咖啡馆

A cafe on Shaxiang Street in Pingyao Ancient City. When I passed by the scenic area tour bus, I saw the name of "Making a Living Cafe" and was deeply impressed. I turned back and walked along the street, found the shop and went in to check it out. The cafe is indeed decorated with a literary and artistic atmosphere, with simple decoration and rich colors. Most of the customers are young tourists, some chatting and some dozing off. There are also local teenagers who gather together to drink and do homework. I ordered a cup of Dirty to get rid of the summer heat, and then asked for a special osmanthus latte. The rim of the cup was covered with a circle of nut crumbs, which had a unique flavor. The sun slowly set in the west, sipping coffee, browsing the circle of friends, and the leisurely afternoon time was very beautiful.

Don't just visit the sights in Pingyao! This living ancient city from the Ming and Qing dynasties offers countless hidden gems worth savoring. As a Pingyao fan who's been three times, I'd like to share a few of my favorite spots: [Must-Try Recommendations] Spend half a day taking photos! The old courtyards, red lanterns, and blue brick walls scattered throughout the ancient city create natural photo studios. I recommend trying the popular local travel photography spots. The costumes are exquisite, and the photographers are skilled at finding angles. The evening light is perfect for capturing photos, creating a truly time-traveling experience. [Food Spots] Creating authentic Pingyao cuisine? Head to Baishanxi on South Street. This long-established branch serves excellent kuoluoluo and fragrant vinegar eggs, and the yellow rice jelly is refreshing and light. For just 50 or 60 yuan per person, you can enjoy a delicious meal. Lines are often long at mealtimes, so avoid peak hours. [Coffee Time] If you're tired of exploring, head to Mousheng on Shaxiang Street for a drink. This cafe is not only a coffee shop, but also transforms into a bistro at night. In addition to their signature gaiwan coffee, their specially blended drinks are also creative and adventurous. There's even a cute puppy in the shop, creating a relaxed atmosphere and perfect for a relaxing break. [Specialty Shopping] If you're looking for a meaningful souvenir, visit Yonglonghao to see the lacquerware. These handmade jewelry boxes and screens are both beautiful and practical, and you can watch a live demonstration of the craftsmanship. While a bit pricey, these are truly timeless artifacts. [Special Experiences] If you're visiting during the Pingyao Film Festival or Photography Exhibition, be sure to visit the Film Palace. Frequent exhibitions and screenings here add a touch of artistic flair to your visit to the ancient city. [Helpful Tips] The ancient city is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes. The pass includes access to 22 attractions and is valid for three days. Be sure to book tickets in advance for the "See You Again Pingyao" performance. Pingyao is best enjoyed by strolling through the alleys, enjoying snacks, and snapping photos to truly experience the charm of this ancient city.

Pingyao Ancient City, a living city reminiscent of the Ming and Qing dynasties, is no longer just about banknote exchanges and the aroma of vinegar. Every autumn, it transforms into a pilgrimage destination for artistically inclined people—the venue for the Pingyao International Film Festival. Strolling through its ancient streets, you never know whether you'll stumble upon a "Movie Palace" festooned with posters or a renowned director or actor quietly passing by. Movie Palace: The Cultural Heart of the Ancient City The main venue for the film festival, the "Movie Palace," was renovated from a former diesel engine factory. Its red brick buildings, steel structures, and light and shadow art seamlessly blend together, creating a unique charm where industrial style meets the city's heritage. Even outside the film festival, the area hosts year-round photography and art exhibitions, perfect for photo opportunities. Step inside and experience a unique atmosphere of dialogue between tradition and modernity. A Stroll Through the Ancient City and a Respite in Art If you're tired of strolling around, I highly recommend stopping by the "Mousheng Coffee and Bistro" on Shaxiang Street. This three-year-old establishment is a gathering place for local art enthusiasts. Order a cup of Pingyao's iconic coffee served in a covered bowl, pet the shop's adorable black dog, "Ears." In the evening, try their homemade green plum wine, brewed with Fenjiu liquor, and experience the slowed-down rhythm of the ancient city amidst the sounds of folk music. Enjoy authentic Shanxi cuisine For a meal, don't miss Baishanxi Restaurant on South Street. It's a branch of Juguangju, a 40-year-old Pingyao restaurant with a strong reputation. The signature dish, Potato and Eggplant Rolls with Luoluo, is a must-try: chewy oat noodle rolls smothered in a sweet and sour broth, a truly appetizing dish. Pair it with Pingyao cold-cut beef and yellow rice jelly for an authentic and satisfying Shanxi-style meal. Take home a souvenir to inherit If you're looking for a souvenir, don't just buy vinegar jars. Yonglonghao on South Street is worth a visit. This is the heritage site for Pingyao polished lacquerware, where you can watch master craftsmen meticulously polish it. Lacquer jewelry boxes, as polished as a mirror and as smooth as jade, are not only exquisite but also symbolize the beautiful meaning of "a beautiful box that fits beautifully." They are a refined gift that will last a lifetime. Capture memories of the ancient city. If you happen to be at a film festival, the city's movie posters and art installations provide the perfect photo backdrop. Practical Tips Film Festival Information: The Pingyao International Film Festival will be held from September 24th to 30th this year. Ancient City Tour: We recommend purchasing a scenic pass, which includes access to 22 attractions, including the County Government Office and the Rishengchang Bank. Transportation: The ancient city is easily accessible on foot, so comfortable shoes are essential. This isn't so much a journey as it is an exploration of film, history, and self. When visiting Pingyao, you might encounter more than just celebrities; you might also encounter the inner self who loves life.

As one of China's best-preserved ancient cities from the Ming and Qing dynasties, Pingyao captivates travelers with its magical fusion of time and space. Besides the must-see city walls, county government offices, and Rishengchang Bank, don't miss these attractions! [Artistic Check-in] Mousheng Coffee and Tavern (Shaxiang Street) When you're tired of strolling around, stop by this hidden gem tucked away in an alleyway! Order a cup of coffee from a covered bowl emblazoned with "Pingyao" and pet the shop's adorable black dog. In the evening, the place transforms into a tavern, offering a refreshingly sweet and sour homemade plum wine and occasional folk music performances, creating a truly captivating atmosphere. [Food Recommendation] Baishanxi Restaurant (Nan Dajie) This long-established restaurant, frequented by locals, offers authentic Pingyao cuisine for just over 50 yuan per person! Must-try the yellow rice jelly and stir-fried beef kuoluoluo. The deep-fried pork with rice is simply divine. Expect lines at mealtimes, so avoid peak times. [Immersive Experience] In addition to the classic "See Pingyao Again," the "See Pingyao Again" performance at the former site of the Xietongqing Piaohao is even more exciting! This 60-minute immersive performance takes you back to the heyday of Shanxi merchants, where you'll experience the legendary story of "Silver Casting with Loyalty" in the underground vault. The lighting effects and interactive experiences are fantastic! [Intangible Cultural Heritage Handicrafts] Yonglonghao Lacquerware (South Street) You must come and see the millennia-old polished lacquerware craft! Master craftsmen demonstrate the polishing techniques live, and the gleaming lacquer jewelry boxes are so beautiful they're irresistible. The shop also features Guinness World Record-breaking 6-meter-long lacquer chopsticks—touch them for good fortune! [Special Easter Egg] At the end of September, there's the Pingyao International Film Festival or Photography Exhibition (held at the Cinema Palace in the ancient city), where you'll also encounter even more artistic surprises! During the exhibition, the ancient city will feature numerous contemporary art installations, creating a fascinating fusion of past and present. This living ancient city always gives you surprises around every corner - it could be a courtyard filled with the aroma of wine, or the focused figure of a lacquerware craftsman, waiting for you to slowly discover.

September is truly a delightful time to visit Pingyao! The summer heat has faded, and the ancient city is blessed with a gentle breeze. Plus, the Pingyao International Photography Exhibition and Film Festival are underway, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Save this easy guide to exploring and dining! Three Must-Dos 1. See an Exhibition September is a paradise for art lovers! The Cinema Palace (formerly the Diesel Engine Factory) in the ancient city hosts photography exhibitions and film festival screenings. The fusion of old factory buildings and cutting-edge art creates a unique and captivating experience. Be sure to check exhibition information in advance! 2. Experience the legend of Shanxi merchants' finance The immersive play "Seeing the Piaohao Again" produced by the Xietongqing Piaohao is a must-see! Travel back in time to the late Qing Dynasty's Piaohao for 60 minutes, touch the "blood silver chest" in the underground vault, and uncover the story of the trustworthiness of Shanxi merchants. 3. Enjoy authentic Shanxi cuisine. Baishanxi Restaurant (South Street) This branch of a long-established Pingyao restaurant offers a sweet and sour chewy potato and eggplant pudding, and the yellow rice jelly dipped in osmanthus sauce is divine! Special Recommendation: Mousheng Coffee and Tavern (Shaxiang Street) During the day, the gaiwan coffee shop, emblazoned with "Pingyao," is perfect for a quick check-in. At night, it transforms into a pub—the homemade plum wine is sweet and sour, and there's a little black dog named "Ear" to pet! Take home a unique souvenir: Yonglonghao Lacquerware Shop (South Street) Watch master craftsmen hand-polish lacquerware, creating jewelry boxes with a jade-like sheen. The shop has a pair of 6-meter-long Guinness record-breaking lacquer chopsticks. Touch them for some good luck! Tips The Ancient City Attraction Pass includes access to 22 attractions. We recommend the County Government Office, Rishengchang, and the Confucian Temple. Accommodation is in high demand during the film festival, so booking in advance is recommended. South Street is at its most beautiful at night when the red lanterns are lit, making for a pleasant stroll. September in Pingyao is a blend of the millennia-old history of Shanxi merchants and the vibrant energy of contemporary art. Come discover it!