Your private guide will meet you at Pingyao railway station or train station, holding a sign with your name. A comfortable private car and experienced driver will transfer you to your hotel in Pingyao Ancient City for check-in.

After a short rest, begin your journey in one of China’s best-preserved ancient walled towns. Start with the Rishengchang Former Bank, widely known as the first draft bank in China. Here, your tour guide will explain how this former bank operated and why Pingyao became such an important financial center during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

To understand more of the city’s merchant culture and social history, continue to related heritage sites in the ancient town, where you can learn how trade, banking, and escort services once worked together in old Shanxi. This part of the visit offers a deeper look into ancient Chinese culture and the commercial strength that shaped Pingyao.

Later in the day, walk up to the Ancient City Wall. From above, you can enjoy a broad view of the old roofs, lanes, and city layout before evening falls. It is one of the best ways to appreciate the scale and character of Pingyao Ancient City.

In the evening, explore Ming Qing Street, the liveliest area of the ancient town. Red lanterns light up the street, local shops stay open late, and the atmosphere becomes especially vivid after dark. Dinner can be arranged in a local restaurant here, where you may also try famous Pingyao beef and other local dishes.

Accommodation:

Hongshanyi Inn (4-star) / Yunjincheng Folk Hotel (5-star)

Good to know:

High speed train arrivals from Beijing, Xi’an, and other cities may be around noon or later in the afternoon. According to your train schedule, your guide may adjust the visiting order to make the itinerary smoother and more comfortable.