Pingyao Ancient City is an outstanding model of Han cities in China in Ming and Qing Dynasties, and it is one of the most complete ancient cities in existence. Its overall shape is like a turtle, so it is also called turtle city. There are six main doors, namely the south gate of the glans and the north gate of the tail. The four claws are the upper east gate, the lower east gate, the upper west gate and the lower west gate.
Walking into the city, it feels like crossing. The streets are paved with large bluestones, and the houses on both sides of the streets are made of wood, just like in costume dramas. The roof is covered with black tiles, the doors and windows are hollowed out and carved, painted red, and the beams are painted with various paints. Some of the facade houses along the street are selling snacks, and the wooden tables and chairs used are also hollow and full of ancient charm; Some shops are folk handicrafts made of cloth; Some are selling glossy handicrafts, some shops are selling African drums, and shopkeepers are playing music with a strong sense of rhythm. There is also a street full of bars, and the decoration style of each bar is very individual, but it does not lose its ancient charm. Every street here looks similar, and the architectural style of the house is the same. Don't be afraid to find the exit here, because the streets here extend in all directions and you can always turn to the main street.
The houses here are all quadrangles, and we live in a house called Xianda Inn. Follow the wooden stairs to the second floor. The bed in the room is called Dakang, which is made of blue bricks. It is tall and big enough for four people to sleep. The wooden chairs, tables and paper lamps in the room are all antique. If it weren't for the modern bathroom, TV and internet in the room, I really thought it had crossed. You can feel the life of the ancients here.
The scenic spots in the ancient city include Rishengchang, the first bank in China, which is now the bank. There are also famous escort agencies, Confucian temples, county government museums and city walls. Standing on the wall, you can see the whole city.
There are many snacks here, such as bowls, Pingyao cakes, Daoxiao Noodles, oat noodles, etc., all of which are just so-so. But seabuckthorn juice and Sydney juice taste good. They are said to be local specialties and are not sold elsewhere.
The quaint Pingyao City is a very special place, and I think I will come again.