Pingyao Top activities and best outdoor adventures

Hands-on cultural acitivities

There are many hands-on activities that you can do in Pingyao to fully experience the local culture and history. Here are some ideas:

Try making traditional Chinese handicrafts: Pingyao is known for its long history of handicrafts, including paper cutting, cloth dyeing, and embroidery. You can visit local workshops and learn how to make these crafts with your own hands.

Join a calligraphy class: Calligraphy is a highly respected art form in China, and Pingyao has a rich calligraphy tradition. You can sign up for a class and learn how to write Chinese characters with a brush and ink.

Learn how to make Pingyao beef: Pingyao beef is a famous dish that is cooked in a specific way. You can visit a local restaurant and ask to learn how to make it from the chefs.

Take a Tai Chi class: Tai Chi is a martial art that is also practiced for health benefits. You can find a local instructor who can teach you the basics of Tai Chi, which involves slow, graceful movements and deep breathing.

Explore Pingyao's ancient architecture: Pingyao has many well-preserved ancient buildings and temples that you can visit. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own to learn about the history and significance of each building.

Watch a shadow puppet show: Shadow puppetry is an ancient Chinese art form that originated in Shanxi province. You can watch a traditional shadow puppet show and learn about its history and significance.

Take a bike tour of the city: Rent a bike and explore the narrow streets and alleys of Pingyao. You can stop at local shops and restaurants along the way to experience the local culture and cuisine.

These are just a few ideas for hands-on activities that you can do in Pingyao. With its rich history and culture, there are many opportunities to learn and experience something new.

Outdoor adventures

There are also some outdoor adventures to be had in the surrounding area. Here are a few suggestions:

Hiking on Mount Mian: Mount Mian is located about 60 kilometers from Pingyao and offers a great hiking experience. The mountain has several trails of varying difficulty, and the views from the top are stunning.

Cycling through the countryside: There are many bike rental shops in Pingyao, and cycling through the surrounding countryside is a great way to explore the area. There are many picturesque villages, farms, and fields to see along the way.

Hot air balloon ride: A hot air balloon ride over the Pingyao area is an unforgettable experience. You'll get a bird's-eye view of the city, the surrounding countryside, and even the Great Wall in the distance.

Ziplining at Qiao Family Courtyard: Qiao Family Courtyard is a historic complex located about 40 kilometers from Pingyao. In addition to the cultural attractions, it also has a zipline course that takes you over the scenic valley below.

Horseback riding at Shuanglin Temple: Shuanglin Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 10 kilometers from Pingyao. The temple is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and you can go horseback riding through the fields and hills nearby.

Whitewater rafting: For adrenaline junkies, there are several companies that offer whitewater rafting trips on the nearby Fen River. The rapids range from class II to class IV, so there's something for both beginners and experienced rafters.

Overall, while Pingyao is known for its cultural and historical attractions, there are also many opportunities to explore the great outdoors and have some adventurous fun.