Pingyao, an ancient walled city famed for its economic history as well as its well-maintained Ming and Qing layout, was named a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1997. Located in Shanxi province just 715 kilometers southwest of Beijing, it represents the best-preserved county-level city of ancient China. Nowadays, the ancient city appeals to increasing numbers of tourists with its time-honored handicrafts, old folk traditions and historical residences.[Photo/Xinhua]