Ming and Qing Street

Situated in the center of Shanxi Province, Ping Yao looks much the same today as it did during the period of the Ming and Qing dynasties, when it was a bustling economic center in feudal China. Beginning in the early 19th century, the city served as an important gathering place for business people in Shanxi Province.

Ming and Qing Street

Ming and Qing Street is the main commercial street in Ping Yao. It is also called "South Street" or "Nan Da Jie." It is said that it was the "Wall Street of China" in the past, and today it keeps the antique charm of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. This ancient street is 440 meters long, running from north to south down the center of the city, directly between the City government building and the Cheng Huang temple. A variety of businesses are located along the street. It is divided into the south street and the north street by the City Building. The styles of the shops are similar but not duplicates. The biggest antique market in Shanxi is located along the street.

Twenty to thirty museums, which reflect the ancient cultures of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, are located along the street. Here, many traditional shops of the Ming and Qing Dynasties are still well preserved. The south street extends about 750 meters, with 78 ancient shops along the street. It's lined with museums, shops, and hostels, yet still keeps its Ming - Qing Dynasty style.

The streets of Pingyao are lined with the tall walls of the homes of the rich people from Pingyao’s heyday. One can get a great panoramic view of Ming-Qing Street by climbing to the top of the three-story Shi Lou (Market Building in the city center.

The ancient town is enclosed by a wall which is 4 miles around and an hour's walk can take one completely around the city. Come stay in a restored courtyard, sleep on a kang (heated brick bed) and experience the quaint old-world charm of Pingyao.