Around Beijing｜A Spontaneous Getaway

Pushing open the weathered city gate The echoes of camel bells from three millennia ago resonate between the ancient bricks Where the moonlight on Ming-Qing merchant guilds' abacuses overlaps with the crenellated walls Pingyao Ancient Town unfolds like an unclosed history book Narrating tales of past splendor and vicissitudes Now, the high-speed rail🚄 from Beijing to Pingyao Ancient Town makes travel incredibly convenient Reaching your destination in just 4 hours Small county, grand scenery—this year is perfect for "county-hopping"! The ancient town boasts several distinctive features: 1️⃣ All ancient city gates remain intact, with vehicles prohibited inside Paid parking lots🅿️ are available outside the gates 2️⃣ Entry to the ancient town is free Access to over 20 attractions inside requires a combo ticket Students get half-price, while seniors and children enjoy discounts The combo ticket is valid for 3 days Each attraction can be entered only once Must-see spots include the County Government Office, Xie Tong Qing Exchange Shop, Rishengchang Draft Bank, etc. 3️⃣ A free light show takes place at the South Gate at 9 PM Stone steps are available for those who prefer sitting For the best view, stand directly opposite the city gate The event is well-organized Arriving a few minutes early on non-holidays still guarantees a good view 4️⃣ The town is filled with courtyard-style homestays Many feature deep, multi-layered compounds Guests should be prepared to carry luggage upstairs (Ground floor rooms require no stairs) 5️⃣ The town is packed with travel photography services Visitors can get styled and freely explore the ancient town Creating a strong time-travel ambiance ⛩️ Core Attractions Route: Enter through Xiaximen Gate → Rishengchang Draft Bank (China's first bank) → Xie Tong Qing Exchange Shop (underground vault) → County Government Office (court performance at 9:30/11:00/15:30) → Confucian Temple (Jin Dynasty architecture) → City God Temple → Ancient City Wall (panoramic views) → Yingxun Gate Light Show (free at 21:00) 🍽️ Dining: ✅ Tian Yuan Kui Restaurant (Flagship) ✅ Tian Yuan Kui Restaurant (South Street Branch) ✅ Hong Wu Ji Restaurant ✅ Jishikou Milk Tea ✅ De Tian Hou Restaurant (breakfast) 🏠 Accommodation: ✅ Hong Yu Yuan Inn ✅ Pingyao Xinghui Guild Hall