The Old Town of Pingyao is an outstanding example of well-preserved Chinese history, spanning two great periods, the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and the Qing Dynast (1644-1911).
There is a Chinese saying: “If you want to see the 30-year-old China, you should go to Shenzhen. For the 100-year-old China, go to Shanghai. Visit Beijing for 1,000 years of history. But to witness 5,000 years of history, go to Shanxi province.”
Mountains, rivers, waterfalls, ancient history and wonderful food are what Shanxi province in China can boast of, and I was lucky to become a part of this fairytale for five days, having been granted the opportunity to participate in the China Daily program “Shanxi in the Eyes of Foreigners”.
As one of the cradles of Chinese civilization, Shanxi can count on its history to anchor its future.It includes the remarkable Old Town of Pingyao, the impressive Jinci Temple and the majestic Residence of the Former Prime Minister Chen.
Drown them in abundant tomato sauce or dip them in soy sauce. Top them with chives or sprinkle them with parmesan cheese. Eat them with chopsticks or handle a fork and spoon. Call them spaghetti or miantiao.
Shanxi is not only the birthplace of the Chinese financial industry but also the cradle of nation’s 5,000-year history. It holds a plethora of rivers, mountains and unique natural landscapes. Shanxi has rich tourism resources that I’m sure an increasing number of visitors will be enjoying in the coming years.
A common greeting in China is the question, "Have you eaten?" It shows the importance of food in the Middle Kingdom. The Chinese are rightfully proud of their cuisine.
What kind of mansion was worth a personal visit by Emperor Kangxi three centuries ago and the chancellor of Germany in modern times? The Royal Residence of the Prime Minister, well-deserving of its 5-A tourism designation in China.
