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Pingyao

Picture an archetypal Chinese city 500 hundred years ago with imposing rampart walls, red paper lanterns, gracefully sweeping roofs, grand gates at the compass points and a bustling warren of alleyways. You've just imagined Pingyao today. This small city was the financial centre of China during the Ming and Qing dynasties and dates back to 700BC. At its height in the 19th-century it was home to banks with branches as widespread as Singapore, Russia, Europe, India and America. The first bank in China was established here and the first cheque was issued within the city walls. The 4-mile walls are thought to be the best preserved in china and earned the city UNESCO world heritage site status in 1997. Cars are restricted in the city so bicycles are still the main mode of transport and the geometrical labyrinth of tidy streets and alleyways are great for simply strolling.

Features in the following itineraries

Jings Residence Pingyao China 7
Jings Residence Pingyao China 8
Jings Residence Pingyao China 2
Jings Residence Pingyao China 10
Jings Residence Pingyao China 8
Jings Residence Pingyao China 2
Jings Residence Pingyao China 10
Jings Residence Pingyao China 7
There are no foreign lands. It is the traveller only who is foreign.
Robert Louis Stevenson

Client Testimonials

Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand

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