If your heart longs for the charm of the past… the sound of footsteps echoing on old stone roads… the faded wooden houses that whisper stories in every corner… then it’s time for a trip to China and you must pin Pingyao Ancient City on your map! This isn’t just another pretty vintage town, it’s the real deal. One of the few ancient cities in China that still preserves the original layout from the Ming and Qing dynasties, Pingyao is a living museum where history breathes through every alley. Today, Traveloka invites you to step back in time with 10 must-visit spots in Pingyao. Soak up the atmosphere until it seeps into your soul, and you’ll understand why they say: “You haven’t truly visited China if you haven’t been to Pingyao.” Ready to travel back in time? Book your flight to China, discover things to do ideas, or find unique hotel in Pingyao, all easily through the Traveloka app. One app, everything covered. Travel easy. Feel the vintage vibe for real no imagination needed!

Let’s kick things off with the No.1 highlight a must-visit attraction in China that feels like you’ve stepped straight into a historical drama. This ancient city wall, over 600 years old, was built during the Ming dynasty and wraps tightly around Pingyao like a treasure chest from the past. Stretching about 6 km long, it features 72 watchtowers (some say they resemble wise elders guarding the city) and 6 grand gates. You can walk along the top for panoramic views and soak up the full vintage vibe from every angle.

This iconic street is the heart and soul of Pingyao Ancient City, a time tunnel of sorts connecting the Ming (1368) and Qing (1644) dynasties. Lined with beautifully preserved old Chinese shops, walking down this street feels like you’ve wandered into a historical novel. You’ll find teahouses, local snack shops, traditional handicrafts, and even boutiques selling authentic Chinese costumes. If you’re into Chinese culture or love vintage vibes, this place will steal your heart.

Before Wall Street, there was Pingyao! This was home to China’s very first private bank, Rishengchang, or the “Prosperous Exchange Shop.” Step into this museum and you’ll be transported to the 19th-century world of ancient Chinese finance. Explore the old money-counting rooms, cheque-issuing chambers, and even a wooden vault that existed long before metal safes were a thing. Perfect for history buffs and economic nerds alike, this spot proves how sophisticated Chinese banking was long before computers came into play.

Ever wondered how ancient Chinese officials handled justice? This place, once Pingyao’s official county office known as Yamen (衙门) is like a mashup of a town hall and a police station from back in the day. Inside, you’ll find courtrooms with judge’s thrones, prison cells, and even secret underground jails. There's also a live courtroom drama reenactment most afternoons. With officials in traditional robes holding bamboo fans, it’s like stepping into an old Chinese period series.

For a quiet yet powerful spiritual experience in Pingyao, head to Qingxu Temple (清虚观), a Taoist temple that's over 1,000 years old! Tucked away in a narrow alley, this underrated gem opens into a wide courtyard filled with tall trees, red lanterns, and ancient stone carvings. It’s the perfect place to pray for good health, inner peace, and safe travels. Inside, you’ll find statues of Taoist gods from wealth and health deities to family guardians. Whether you're spiritual or just seeking good vibes on your China trip, this temple is a must-visit.

Art meets spirituality at this over-1,000-year-old temple, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shuanglin Temple is famous for housing more than 2,000 terracotta and wooden sculptures depicting deities, celestial beings, and vivid scenes from the afterlife, all rooted in ancient Chinese beliefs. Though the colors may have faded slightly over time, the intricate details are still incredibly lifelike. Pro tip: visit in the morning when the soft sunlight casts dramatic shadows on the walls, it’s an atmosphere that’s quiet, sacred, and utterly mesmerizing.

Massive, majestic, and fit for a Chinese period drama! Though located about 40 minutes from Pingyao Old Town, this legendary mansion is well worth the side trip. Once home to a wealthy merchant family during the Qing Dynasty, the courtyard boasts over 300 rooms and was the filming location for the internationally acclaimed movie Raise the Red Lantern. Its classic three-level Chinese architecture surrounds a central courtyard and features ornate carvings on doors and windows. Every corner is a visual delight.

Only 10 kilometers from Pingyao, but centuries apart in atmosphere. Zhenguo Temple is home to the Mahavira Hall, a rare wooden structure built in 963 AD during the Tang Dynasty that has never been destroyed, renovated, or rebuilt. This ancient temple is surrounded by peaceful nature and houses gentle-faced wooden Buddha statues that radiate a quiet power. The scent of aged wood, the stillness of the halls, and the soft breeze create a time-stopping experience as if history has paused just for you.

Often overlooked, this hidden gem just 6 km outside Pingyao is a true sanctuary of serenity and artistry. The highlight? Over 2,000 hand-molded terracotta figures dating from the Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Made from a clay-wood mix and painted in vibrant colors that have stood the test of time, these sculptures reside in various themed halls like the Hall of Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy), the Hall of Birth and Death, and the Hall of the Life Cycle. Each is a visual storybook of ancient beliefs.

Located right within the old town, this museum is the perfect place to begin your Pingyao journey. It tells the story of the city from the Zhou Dynasty all the way to the Qing Dynasty, through ancient maps, miniature models, relics, and traditional clothing. You'll also find exhibits on local crafts, wedding traditions, trade systems, and everyday life in old Pingyao. Start your trip here for context, it will help you appreciate every street and alley in the real city afterward.

If you're into history with a touch of artistic flair, the Longmen Grottoes are the place to be. Though it’s about a 3-hour train ride from Pingyao, every second of the trip is worth it. Imagine this: over 100,000 Buddha statues carved right into the cliffs, stretching for hundreds of meters. Each one is unique different faces, poses, and expressions like a massive, ancient art gallery carved into stone. Set beside the peaceful Yi River, the view is just chef’s kiss. Trust us your camera will thank you.

Calling all nature lovers and adventure seekers! You can’t miss the Hukou Waterfall or “Teapot Mouth Waterfall” (壶口瀑布). The name comes from the way the water gushes down through a narrow opening, like tea pouring from a giant kettle. It’s located on the mighty Yellow River, and it’s actually the largest yellow-colored waterfall in Asia. From Pingyao, it’s about a 3–4 hour drive, perfect for a day trip or a chill overnight stay. Visit between May and October to catch it at full power roaring, thunderous, and absolutely awe-inspiring. It’s the kind of nature that gives you goosebumps (in the best way).

Now this one’s a dream for architecture lovers! The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda holds the title for the oldest and tallest wooden pagoda in the world. Located in Yingxian, about 3 hours from Pingyao, this stunning structure was built in 1056 yes, nearly 1,000 years ago during the Liao Dynasty. It stands over 67 meters tall, made entirely of wood without a single nail! Even after centuries and multiple earthquakes, it’s still standing strong. If you're lucky and it’s open for climbing, head up to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of a classic Chinese town. This is truly a one-of-a-kind sight that you won't find anywhere else in the world.

Hotels in Pingyao ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A true classic in the heart of the ancient city! Staying here feels like stepping straight into the Ming Dynasty. Located just a few minutes' walk from the city gate, Pingyao Hotel offers an authentic Chinese experience, think elevated wooden beds, dragon-patterned curtains, antique décor, and soft red lantern glow at night. It’s one of the oldest and most reputable hotels in the area, with room options ranging from simple charm to full-on imperial Chinese luxury. If you're looking for a vintage stay with a royal twist, this is the spot.

Hotels in Pingyao ⭐⭐⭐⭐

History buffs, this one’s for you! Elsewhere Hotel used to be the home of a traditional draft bank during Pingyao’s economic golden age. Staying here is like living inside a historical time capsule. The building perfectly preserves its Sino-European architecture, blending Chinese woodwork with a hint of old-world European style. It’s elegant yet peaceful, ideal for travelers who want to rest amidst real stories from the past. Expect classic Chinese décor, antique wood furniture, traditional drapes, and warm hospitality that echoes Pingyao’s rich trading legacy.

Hotels in Pingyao ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lights, camera, nostalgia! This cinematic-themed hotel brings together the drama of ancient Chinese inns and the flair of modern design. Located within Pingyao’s old town, Light and Shadow Theme Hotel blends classic red-and-black décor, mood lighting, and traditional wooden arches making every room feel like a movie set. Some rooms even feature canopy beds and curved wood panels, perfect for snapping some insta-worthy vintage shots. If you love the charm of the past with a touch of contemporary cool, this one’s a scene-stealer.

Getting to Pingyao Ancient City is way easier than you think! Even though the city doesn’t have its own airport, China’s epic train system makes traveling here a breeze, fly, ride, connect… everything’s possible.

Fly from Thailand → Land at Taiyuan Wusu International Airport

Hop on a high-speed train: Taiyuan → Pingyao Ancient City Station (平遥古城站)

If you’re touring other popular cities first, adding Pingyao to your trip is simple. There are direct high-speed trains to Pingyao Ancient City Station from:

Cool breeze, golden leaves, soft sunlight — the city turns into a historical drama set! Fewer tourists, amazing photo ops, and the perfect chill stroll through ancient alleys.

Flowers bloom, skies are clear, and Pingyao feels like it’s waking up from a long winter nap. Plus, you can catch local festivals like the Pingyao Culture Festival and fun folk events.

Want to see an ancient Chinese city blanketed in snow? This is your chance. The vibe is straight out of a snow-covered dynasty-era novel — just bundle up, it’s chilly!

Yes, it’s hot and crowded (hello, summer holidays in China), but there are loads of events happening, and nearly all shops and attractions are open.

Exploring China today doesn’t mean you have to stick to the big-name landmarks like the Great Wall or the Forbidden City anymore. If you’re craving a deeper, more authentic cultural vibe, Pingyao Ancient City is your place. Here, the beauty of the past is perfectly preserved from strolling along the ancient city walls and sipping tea in traditional tea houses, to simply watching daily life unfold through a carved wooden window. Every moment feels meaningful, like you’re walking through living history. It’s a hidden gem among China’s travel destinations that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and vintage photo hunters. Want to make it easy? Just download the Traveloka app to book your flights to China, find the perfect hotel in Pingyao Ancient City, or join a local tour all in one place. Let your heart travel back in time with zero stress!