Ming-Qing Street (明清一条街), also known as South Street, is a historical commercial hub located in the heart of Pingyao Ancient City, Shanxi Province, China. Spanning approximately 400 meters in length, this street is renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant historical ambiance, offering a vivid glimpse into the economic life of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
The street is a prime example of traditional Chinese commercial architecture, with 78 ancient shops and businesses meticulously preserved. These include a diverse range of establishments such as pawnshops, banks, traditional Chinese medicine shops, butcheries, tobacco stores, grocery stores, and silk shops. This variety reflects the comprehensive nature of commercial activities during the Ming and Qing periods.
Ming-Qing Street was once a focal point for the prosperous Shanxi merchants, known for their financial acumen and influence. Major financial institutions like Bianchuan Tong, Xietongqing, Weishengchang, and Weichanghou were established here, alongside renowned traditional Chinese medicine shops like Yunji Cheng, and prominent silk shops such as Kuichengyu and Yongtaicheng. These businesses were highly esteemed and attracted customers from across the region, making Ming-Qing Street a bustling center of commerce and trade.
The architecture of Ming-Qing Street showcases the grandeur of the period, with intricate wooden carvings, traditional tiled roofs, and stone facades. The layout of the shops, featuring a front shop and a rear courtyard, reflects the commercial practices of the time, where transactions and business dealings were conducted in a compact yet efficient space.
In the heyday of Pingyao’s economic prosperity, this street was a thriving marketplace. It was often referred to as a place where fortunes were made and lost, reflecting the competitive spirit of the merchants who operated here. The street served as a battleground for business competition, where merchants showcased their skills and strategies in the fiercely contested market environment.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 0.5 – 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the eyar |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0354-5690000 |
Location and Transportation
Ming-Qing Street, located in Pingyao Ancient City, is easily accessible by walking once you’re inside the city. The ancient city is compact, making it convenient for visitors to explore on foot. If you prefer not to walk, there are electric rickshaws available throughout the city, with fares ranging from 10 to 30 yuan. Alternatively, renting a bicycle for about 10 yuan per half-day is a great way to enjoy both the ancient city and its surroundings at a leisurely pace.
