Temple of the City God

The Temple of the City God of Pingyao is an ancient Taoist temple with deeply religious, historical and cultural value. It is one of the most complete examples of the same kind of buildings in China.

The temple was originally built in the Northern Song Dynasty(960-1127) and was rebuilt many times during the Ming and Qing Dynasties due to the ruins. It now remains the style of the architecture of Qing Dynasty, with an area of about 7,302 square meters (1.8 acres).

The structure of the building is quite spectacular and distinctive. With the Main Hall of the City God in the center, the temple congregates four parts of Hall of Liucao (officials of the nether world), Hall of Tudi (Gnome), Temple of Zaojun (Kitchen God) and Temple of Caishen (God of Wealth). Great gate, opera tower, halls, and bedrooms are arranged into four parallel courtyards, which have taken account of different functions. The whole structure is not only designed in the style of a temple, but also like a government house.

The temple exudes highly aesthetic and architectural values. It stores exquisite statues, murals and various forms of sculptures, where one can not only find the cultures of Taoism and Confucianism, but also those of the public. The design of double eaves, cloisters, pavilions and the glazed components is also most worth appreciating.

Travel Tips: The Temple of the City God is located in the east of Pingyao County , the middle part of Cheng Huang Miao Street. An all-inclusive ticket of the scenic spots of Pingyao costs CNY 120, which includes the Temple of the City God, Rishengchang Exchange Shop , City Wall of Pingyao, Ancient Ming and Qing Street, and almost 20 other famous ancient cultural relics in the county.