A historical and cultural city of immense charm and value.
From a historical perspective, it stands as an outstanding example of a Han Chinese city during the Ming and Qing dynasties, boasting nearly 2,800 years of history. Its city walls, streets, and residential buildings are well-preserved, forming a vast architectural complex that showcases the feudal ritual system. These include Shuanglin Temple, hailed as a "treasure house of oriental colored sculptures," and Zhenguo Temple, considered a "Chinese treasure."
It is also the birthplace of Shanxi merchants, with institutions like the Rishengchang Bank bearing witness to the development of modern banking.
From a tourist perspective, strolling through the ancient city offers a glimpse into the prosperity of the Ming and Qing dynasties and admiring the exquisite ancient architecture and traditional dwellings.
Furthermore, Pingyao specialties such as beef and polished lacquerware, as well as a rich variety of local snacks, add to the city's unique charm.
However, there are some shortcomings in tourism management, such as tourist overcharging, inadequate traffic order, and high prices within the scenic area, which may affect the visitor experience. But overall, it is a historical and cultural sanctuary worth visiting.