Shanxi to add one more 5A scenic spot

North China’s Shanxi province will welcome its sixth 5A-level scenic spot, as the Ancient City of Pingyao was included in the list of 5A scenic spots by the National Tourism Administration.

In order to get a 5A level, a scenic spot must pass a standardized evaluation covering 12 categories, including transportation, safety, sanitation and environmental protection. A public notification period for one week will follow for public’s feedback, before the top tourism authority releases the final list.

The Ancient City is now in the public notification period. The 2,700-year old ancient city in central Shanxi is an exceptionally well-preserved example of the traditional Chinese city of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. It provides a complete picture of cultural, social, economic and religious development during these periods, according to UNESCO, who listed the ancient city as a World Cultural Heritage in 1997.

After the public notification period concludes, Shanxi will have six 5A level scenic spots, including Mount Wutai, Yungang Grottoes and Qiao Family Compound.