Pingyao Ancient City

The Pingyao Ancient City is a 2,700-year-old historic and cultural town constructed in 827-782 BC. Ever since the system of prefectures and counties was established in 221 BC, Pingyao has been where the county government is located. The old town walls are still preserved today as they were built in 1370 during the Ming Dynasty, so are the six temple complexes, as well as county courts and other architectures. There are more than 100 streets in the city, still looking exactly as they were hundreds of years ago. In 19th century, Pingyao City was the most financially flourishing place, most notably being the founding of the exchange shop named Rishengchang, a milestone in China’s history of finance business. During the 100 years of financial prosperity, Pingyao made significant contributions to China’s economic development.