Pingyao Ming-Qing Street



The Ancient Ming and Qing Street, that is the South Avenue of Pingyao, is an essential cultural relics of the
county. Reputed as the 'Wall Street of China', it used to be the most prosperous part of the county and the
financial center of China.

The Ancient Ming and Qing Street is located in the centre of Pingyao and forms the axis of the county. The
street which stretches for over 750 meters, is unique in its concentration of as many as one hundred shops
and local houses in the style of the ancient Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) architecture. In the
past the businesses that these shops encompassed involved nearly all fields of commerce including
finance, medicine, silk, clothing, fans, lanterns and general merchandise.

Nowadays, although some shops have become museums or have changed the types of business they house, all retain their original appearance,
making this street an excellent location to see historic buildings of the Qing and Ming period. The street is also a place where some local
souvenirs can be purchased and some of the unique local snacks can be sampled.

The cross-street Town House, is the highest building of the city (18.5 meters high). On its top, you can take a whole view of the Ming–Qing Street.

Today, Pingyao looks much the same today as it did when it was the bustling economic center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is one of
China’s cultural and historical landmarks, where both locals and tourists come to discover the antique charm of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Walking along the street, tourists can get the first-hand experience of ancient China. Meanwhile, local people are also quite honest and simple-
minded. Walking or riding along this street is like stepping back in time. The grey of the buildings mixed with the red of the lanterns that hang from
the eaves makes for an exotic, captivating experience.

Other attractions are the 20-30 museums that flank the street, which give visitors a taste of the various cultures
that thrived during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This ancient street runs from north to south down the center of
the city, directly between the City Government Building and the Cheng Huang Temple.