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

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Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
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- Mr David Wallace, North India
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Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
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