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Home > Travel China > China Attractions > Pingyao Ancient City
Pingyao Ancient City
China, an East Asian country is one of the world’s oldest civilizations. It has a vast cultural history of more than five thousand years and an outstanding natural beauty. On the other hand, this country has remained a comparatively isolated and secluded one, and being a land of mystery, this country is not known to the western half of the world. However, China is rapidly developing and has grown in the phase of modernization, with an immense speed and is also welcoming the outer world to interact and do business with them.
Pingyao Ancient City is one of the best preserved examples of a walled city in China and is located 100 kilometer or 62 miles south of Taiyuan. In 1997 it was named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organization.
The city was at its peak during the Ming dynasty, which ruled china from 1368 to1644, and the walls and design of Pingyao are typical of the symmetrical layout of cities of the era. The narrow streets, courtyards and rooftops are particularly attractive and are authentic examples of Ming and Qing dynasty, which ruled China from 1644 to 1911, architecture. If the beautiful streets of Pingyao seem familiar it may be because Zhang Yimou, Raise the Red Lantern, was filmed here.
Pingyao square city walls are in excellent condition and were built in 1370 as a final defence should invaders have overcome the Great Wall. Surrounding the city for 6 kilometer or 4 miles, the walls are 5 meters or 16 feet deep and 12 meters or 40 feet tall and watchtowers located at every corner and at 50 meter or 164 feet intervals ensured the security of the town.
Other sites of interest in the ancient city include the Rishengchang Bank. Established in the early 19th century, it played a key role in the development of China financial system and pioneered the use of paper checks as a form of payment. Pingyao Tian Ji Xiang Museum has a small collection of exhibits illustrating the city history and the Bell Tower is a good example of classic Han northern Chinese architecture.
China is a popular travel destination for visitors and globe trotters from all over the world who appreciate its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, delicious local cuisine, hospitality and safety. Quality is China's top priority.
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