The old city of Pingyao is simply enchanting – well it certainly was when I visited there during 2001 and 2002.
As with most towns and cities the best time to be out and about with a camera was from 6am onwards as this was the best time to catch a real glimpse of local life.
Bursting with charm this age-old enclave’s intact ancient city wall is quite possibly the best in China and offers fantastic views across the old town, which is great for the contrast between the well touristed and not-often-visited areas of town.
One of my memories from being on the wall in Pingyao, was a farmer walking a small herd of sheep into the back streets of the old town, a fantastic photographic moment but as yet I haven’t come across the images amongst the many thousands I am currently wading through.
The traditional architecture is fabulous, with Pingyao definitely worth a visit. I imagine that transportation links will have improved as it used to be a long bus ride from Xian or a slow train from Taiyuan.
