Pingyao County

Pingyao County is a region in Shanxi Province that centers on a walled city, one of the most significant historical towns in the area with intact medieval streets and buildings. The territory includes several temples with ancient religious artworks, a network of traditional courtyards, and remains of institutions that once controlled regional commerce.

The area was first settled around 800 BCE and grew into a major trading hub during the Ming and Qing periods. The walled city was rebuilt in 1370 and became the base for a network of financial institutions that dominated silver distribution across the empire.

The walled city serves as a gathering place where locals and visitors move through courtyards and streets shaped by centuries of commerce and daily life. The temples scattered throughout the county reflect spiritual practices that continue to influence how people mark their seasons and celebrations.

Walking through the old streets is the best way to explore since the alleys are narrow and designed for slow movement through interconnected courtyards. Plan to spend several hours moving between the temples and historic buildings spread throughout the district to see the main sites at a comfortable pace.

Walking the defensive walls from 1370 provides views of the city layout and surrounding lands from the original watchtower positions. The structure has remained remarkably intact over more than 650 years and reveals how medieval planners designed protection and sightlines for the settlement.