Meet your private guide in central Pingyao to begin your walking tour. Hear about the Old Town’s history, culture, and architecture from your guide. Founded during the Western Zhou dynasty more than 2,700 years ago, and rebuilt in 1370, this quaint, walled enclave is one of China’s best-preserved Ming-dynasty old towns.

Each sight in the UNESCO-listed town has a story, so follow your guide around the atmospheric streets to learn about the events and people who shaped their past. Swing by the 200-year-old Rishengchang Draft Bank, China’s first-ever bank. This building was the headquarters of a 19th-century security company that hired guards to protect cash belonging to Pingyao’s merchants.

Amble along Ming-Qing Street, the Old Town’s commercial hub. Admire the elaborate Ming and Qing pavilions, houses, and courtyards, and observe Pingyao’s residents going about their daily routines. Peruse the antique, calligraphy, souvenir, and food shops, and stop to watch vendors and artisans making handicrafts for sale. The tour comes to an end.