Pingyao is China's most intact ancient walled city — UNESCO World Heritage since 1997, with 6km of Ming-dynasty city wall, 3,797 historic buildings, and the original 14th-century street grid. Walking circuit covers the City Tower, Confucius Temple, Rishengchang (China's first banking house, founded 1823), Mingqing Old Street, and the Ancient Government Office (Yamen) where you can watch a re-enacted Ming court session. Half-day format perfect for travelers passing through. English-speaking guide explains the merchant-banker culture that made Pingyao the Wall Street of late-imperial China. Pickup at hotels inside the old city.
