Beijing, Pingyao, Shanxi tour
Experience the timeless charm of ancient China on this private overnight train journey from Beijing to Pingyao, exploring imperial history and traditional Shanxi courtyard architecture.
Discover the rich history of northern China on this unique 4-day private tour combining Beijing's energy with Pingyao's ancient walled city. Your adventure begins with an overnight train from Beijing to Pingyao, traveling in a comfortable 4-bed cabin. Upon arrival, explore the magnificent Wang's Family Courtyard, a sprawling complex showcasing the wealth of a successful Shanxi merchant family. Wander through Pingyao's Ming and Qing Street, a bustling 440-meter lane lined with traditional shops and architecture. Walk atop the ancient city wall, one of China's best-preserved fortifications. Return to Beijing via another overnight train, with transfer services included throughout. This tour offers an authentic glimpse into China's imperial past, perfect for travelers seeking cultural immersion without sacrificing comfort.
The map shows the tour area. The detailed plan below remains the source for stops and timing.
Pick up from your hotel in Beijing and take the evening train train for Pingyao. Overnight night on train ( 4-bed cabin ). Meals: No
Arrival at Pingyao Railway Station in the early morning, met and transferred to your hotel in the walled ancient city of Pingyao. After breakfast, drive south about 60km for Wang's Family Courtyard . Wang's Family Courtyard was once one of the richest family in Shanxi Province, very successful business man. It has hundreds of rooms to meet family needs. People are especially amazed by the architecture of the huge courtyard house from 300 years ago. Also from family city wall, you can see some old cave dwelling under the wall. After Wang's Family Courtyard, continue to drive north 20km to the restaurant by Zhangbi Village. You will have lunch in the local restaurant with yummy local foods on your own. After lunch, walk into Zhangbi Village to visit the ancient tunnels and the old village itself popularly known as Zhangbi Underground Castle . The Village has the oldest and longest tunnels in all China. With three sides facing gullies, one leaning on the mountains, Zhangbi Village was once an military fortified village with esily guided and difficultly attacked. After Zhangbi Underground Castle, back to Pingyao. Hotel: No
After breakfast, visit the Mingqing Street . Ming and Qing Street, also called Nanda Jie (South Avenue). It is one of the busy and interesting streets in which to experience ancient Chinese culture. It is 440 long, Ming and Qing Street used to be the commercial center of Pingyao ancient city. Then visit the Ancient City Wall of Pingyao City . The city of Pingyao is one of the four remaining well-preserved ancient cities in China. The city wall has a perimeter of 6.4 kilometers and is over 12 meters high and 3.5 meters wide. Continue to visit the Rishengchang Exchange Shop . It is the earliest bank in China, first opened in the 18th century. Rishengchang was the first money exchange shop in the history of China. After lunch,visit Armed Escort Company Museum . It offers an eye-opening armed escort in protecting commerce. Cash moving from one area needed the armed escort firm to thwart thieving hands. Finally visit County Government Office , an ancient city hall and law court. After the Pingyao tour, then transfer to Pingyao Railway Station for overnight train K610 (20:42 - next day 6:01 ) to Beijing. Overnight on train ( 4-bed cabin ) Hotel: Yes
Meals: No Hotel: No
| Included | Not included |
|---|---|
| All transfers and city transportation for your own use | Gratuities for your tour guide and driver |
| Beijing - Pingyao - Beijing overnight train ( soft sleepers ) | Lunch and dinner |
| Entrance fees as mentioned | Travel insurance for your coverage of injury or accident |
| Private car or van with English speaking guide | |
| The prices above are based two persons sharing one room | |
| The above private escorted tour is customized for you, your family or your friends exclusively. No other travelers will join in your group. |
English
| Travelling Party | Tour Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 persons | $380 |
| 3-5 persons | $350 |
| 6-9 persons | $320 |
| 10 persons up | $300 |
| Single room supplement | $55 |
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