Mingqing Street

Introduction to Mingqing Street (明清街)

Mingqing Street is the south street in Pingyao Ancient City. There are many traditional shops here, which sell specialities,calligraphy and paintings. 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. The street is one of the most popular sightseeing attractions of Pingyao.

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, Now, 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.

Location

Inside Pingyao Ancient Town, which locates at Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province

Travel Information

Admission Fee: included in the Pingyao Ancient Town pass, at RMB 130
Opening Hours: all day
Best Time to Visit: Autumn

Transportation 

• By Bus: Take bus from Taiyuan Jiannan Bus Station to Pingyao. Time cost: 2 hours. Fare: RMB 26.
• By Train: Take train from Taiyuan Train Station to Pingyao Train Station. Time: one and half an hour. Fare: RMB 7.5-16.5.
• （Pingyao Train Station is only 500 meters or so to the west gate of the ancient town. It is recommended to go there by foot when out of the train station.）

Travel Tips 

• Better not visiting during Chinese holidays, for it might be very crowded then.
• Mingqing street is inside the ancient town, renting a bike go around the town will be a good choice. Fee: about RMB 10 for half day.