Pingyao

Pingyao, located in the central part of Shanxi Province, is the capital of Jin’s merchant culture. In 1997, the 3,000-year-old ancient city was named a World Cultural Heritage site, adding another important element to this famous historical and cultural city.

World Heritage – Ancient City of Pingyao

The ancient city of Pingyao was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997 for its long history, well-protected walls and streets, and numerous historical buildings inside and outside the city.

Jinshang Compound and Banking Business

During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Jin merchants rose to prominence. With Pingyao as their center, they relied on the traditional banking business to become the most influential local power in China, with Rishengchang (日升昌), Wei Taihou (蔚泰厚), Wei Fenghou (蔚丰厚), and Wei Shengchang (蔚盛长) being the best known. These Jin merchants were so wealthy that many of their mansions, such as the Qiao Family Courtyard and the Wang Family Courtyard, were located in the vicinity of Pingyao, covering such a vast area that most first-time visitors would be confused.

The Religious Culture of Pingyao

Inside and outside the ancient city of Pingyao, a number of Buddhist temples and Taoist temples remain, which played a key part as World Heritage sites in Pingyao. The colored sculptures at Pingyao Shuanglin Temple are famous, while the Hall of Ten-Thousand Buddha at Zhenguo Temple, built during the Five Dynasties, has a unique style. There are also Confucian and Taoist buildings in the old city, such as the Qingxuguan Temple, the Confucius Temple and the City God Temple.

Attractions in Pingyao