Wang Mansion
Located in the suburbs of Pingyao, the Wang Mansion is a luxurious residential compound built during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The mansion occupies an area of 150,000 square meters and has 231 courtyards and over 2,000 buildings. The architecture of the mansion is a work of art in its own right with every inch covered with exquisite carvings, many of them gilt.
The East Courtyard was built during the reign of Emperor Jiaqing (1796-1820). The courtyard is labyrinthine and it is easy to feel as though you are lost in a world of art. The architecture in this area is remarkable. Each cluster of courtyards in the East Courtyard has its own kitchen and private school. There are many artifacts that belonged to the Wang Family on display in the East Courtyard.
The West Courtyard has 27 courtyards, each with its own unique style. The buildings here, like in the rest of the building are works of art and no expense was spared in their construction.