Yangtze River Odyssey: Cultural & Scenic Cruise
Rediscover Qing Dynasty Grandeur Through Private Exploration
Day 1: Time Travel to Ming-Qing Era & 300-Year-Old Courtyard Immersion
Morning: High-Speed Arrival into Ancient Civilization
Begin your temporal journey aboard a 4-hour high-speed train from Beijing to Pingyao. Upon arrival, your private guide welcomes you at Pingyao Railway Station for seamless transfer to the legendary Yide Hotel - a 300-year-old boutique courtyard accommodation that serves as your gateway to authentic Chinese cultural immersion.
Afternoon: Walking Through Living Commercial History
Step directly into the preserved world of Ancient Pingyao City, established 2,700 years ago and remarkably maintained. The highlight unfolds along Ancient Ming-Qing Street (South Street), where original shopfronts and bustling market stalls recreate the vibrant commercial atmosphere of imperial China. Key discoveries include:
- Rishengchang Former Bank - birthplace of China's early banking system
- Temple of the City God - spiritual heart of ancient Pingyao
- Tongxinggong Security Guard Company - historic protection services
- Panoramic city wall walk offering turtle-shell patterned views
Evening: Culinary Heritage in Historic Ambiance
Dine within your hotel's Green Mountain Hall restaurant, surrounded by traditional wooden architecture and cinematic atmosphere. Savor authentic Jinzhong specialties or select Western options, with exquisite tableware enhancing your imperial-era dining experience.
Day 2: Merchant Dynasty Legacy & Architectural Marvels
Morning: Inside the Qiao Family Fortune
Journey one hour to explore the magnificent Qiao Family Compound, the Qing Dynasty residence of China's wealthiest merchant family. This architectural masterpiece features:
- Double "囍" shaped layout symbolizing joy and prosperity
- 5,000+ cultural relics showcasing Jinzhong folk traditions
- Exquisite brick carvings, woodwork, and delicate murals
- Film location of Oscar-nominated "Raise the Red Lantern"
- Iconic red lantern displays throughout the compound
Afternoon: Cultural Reflection & Departure
Following your immersion into merchant dynasty life, enjoy private transfer to Pingyao Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying memories of ancient commercial prosperity, architectural wonders, and living history that continues to breathe within Pingyao's preserved walls.
Accommodation Highlight
Yide Hotel: Experience overnight stay in a genuine 300-year-old Chinese courtyard, featuring handcrafted wood fittings and traditional architecture that transforms accommodation into cultural exploration.