Pingyao Ancient City Aug 2025

Ancient City of Pingyao: It is one of the most intact ancient cities in China with a history of more than 1,500 years. It is also known as the 'Turtle City' suggesting longevity and never declining. The 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) long brick City Wall has wall towers and turrets positioned along its length which would be effective in wartime and have a decorative function on the framework of the wall. The ancient city is made up of four major streets, eight lesser streets and seventy-two lanes. The South Street, also called the Ancient Ming and Qing Street, is the busiest commercial center of Pingyao. Along the street stand stores of Ming and Qing architectural styles.
Qiao's Compound: Located in Qiaojiabao Village 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) northeast of Qixian County, the compound of the Qiao Family was first built during the regime of the Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Going through over 250 years of growth and decline, the Qiao's Compound, together with many other compounds of the big families in Shanxi, tells us vivid stories about Shanxi businessmen.
Cao's Compound: It is also known as Sanduo Hall and is located in the northern part of Beiguang Village, 5 kilometers (3 miles) southwest of Taigu County, and 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province. With a history stretching back more than 400 years, it is remarkable for its noble, simple and unpretentious construction.
Wang's Compound: It is located in Jingsheng Town, Lingshi County, about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Pingyao Ancient City and about 140 kilometers (87 miles) from Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province. This scenic area is a luxurious residence built during 1762-1811 by the descendants of the Wang Family.