Pingyao is located in the east coast of Fenhe River, the southwestern tip of the Taiyuan Basin. Consists of 5 towns and 9 villages, covering an area of 1,260 square kilometers, with a history more than 2,700 years, Pingyao is a national historical and cultural city, which is regarded as the first ancient capital of China. On December 3rd, 1997, Pingyao was formally identified as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Well-preserved Ming and Qing ancient walls, streets, shops, residential areas and historical sites in Pingyao are unique and rare in China. Also as the birthplace of the Jin Businessmen, it played an important role in the economic development of Shanxi during ancient periods.

Pingyao Ancient City, Qiao Courtyard, Ming Qing Street and Rishengchang Exchange Shop are the landmarks. Pingyao Ancient City is the only ancient city in China completely reserved as it was hundreds of years ago. Qiao Courtyard is the home of a powerful trading family with significant commercial influence. Ming Qing Street shows best-preserved Ming and Qing architectures, various kinds of restaurants and souvenir shops and rich culture of ancient China. Rishengchang Exchange Shop, established in 1643, was the first bank in China. A visit to Pingyao just like read a history book of China.