What to buy:

Polished Lacquerware
Polished lacquerware from Pingyao is well-known for its elegant finish and graceful designs. The wood is given several coats of paint and polished after each coat, a process that makes the craftwork endure heat and moisture and maintains its rich color. Famous lacquer items include jewelry boxes, wardrobes, large and small screens, bowls, and plates. Taiyuan Gold Lacquerware Factory and Pingyao Polished Lacquerware Factory produce popular items including screens and ornaments

Chinese Yam
Chinese yam has been used in China as a kind of tonic herb for thousands of years. It is said to benefit the spirit, promote fluid metabolism, improve spleen and stomach function, and when taken regularly is said to brighten the intellect and help prolong life. The Chinese have used this herb for centuries to help restore impaired immunological function, stimulate secretions of vital immune hormones and enhance overall immune system response.

Handmade Cloth Shoes
When traveling in Pingyao, you will see a number of middle-aged ladies sitting in front of their homes sewing shoes for themselves. Handmade cloth shoes from Pingyao feature unique designs, elaborate handwork, and elegant appearance. They are often embroidered with figures of animals and natural flowers which not only make the shoes more pretty but are supposed to drive away evil and bring good luck. The handmade shoes have good ventilation and are comfortable to wear.

Where to buy:

Hunqi Zhai
An ancient residence in typical Shanxi style. The lacquerware available here is famous in Pingyao.
Address: 7 Huludu, Shuyuan Street, Pingyao Old City

Liuhetai Pillows
“Liuhetai” refers to the harmony and peace of the world in Chinese. The Liuhetai pillow is different from the traditional solid pillow as it is almost cube shaped with symmetrically placed holes. The design endows the pillow with the ability to breathe that promotes good health. Because of the special holes, people do not feel pressure on their ears during sleep.

Cloth Shoes
Handmade cloth shoes are commonly worn in Pingyao. Cloth shoes are quite absorbent and ventilate the feet. They are not as hard as leather shoes and so are inclined to be much more comfortable. You will find various kinds of cloth shoes sold in Pingyao's streets, some in simple black, some embroidered, and others of damask cloth. All of them are regarded as exquisite handicrafts as well as practical shoes promoting good to health.

Special Touring Regions: