Xihe Academy Mansion

This is a cosy hotel converted from a scholar’s academy. It really feels like you’ve gone back in time or stepped onto a Chinese drama set. The staff are wonderful, very friendly, helpful and kind, explaining how to navigate their little town and helping us book tickets to a show. When my payment app couldn’t work upon check in, they let us pay later in the day with a credit card. The breakfast is tasty and fills the tummy, and you can ask for refills. I had the best sleep here, as it’s set on a quiet street, a little off the main drag and the rooms were clean and spacious, with comfortable beds, everything worked and there was attention to details like a snack basket and bottled water in the fridge. And the car was there to pick us up from Pingyao Gu Cheng station and also to send us back to the station. It was a lovely stay.

A magical place with fantastic people and services! I suggest this place to anyone who wants to feel the real Ancient City of Pingyao ❤️

A Step Back in Time: A Flawless Stay at a Historic Pingyao Retreat Our stay at this exceptional traditional hotel in Pingyao was nothing short of magical. Originally an academy, the property has been beautifully restored and transformed into a serene boutique hotel that immerses you in Chinese history and culture without compromising comfort. Location Perfectly situated in a quiet area away from the crowds of the main tourist sites, the hotel offered a peaceful sanctuary after long days of exploring. The silence and calm added to the authenticity of the experience, as if we had truly stepped into another era. Design & Atmosphere The preservation of the original architecture and layout of the academy was breathtaking. Every detail of the hotel—from the wooden beams to the stone pathways—exuded historical charm. The sense of place was so strong that it felt like we were emperors transported back in time. Room We stayed in the Shuyuan Canopy Bed Suite, which was immaculate and exquisitely designed. The amenities were thoughtfully curated, blending modern convenience with traditional elegance. The canopy bed was a highlight, evoking a luxurious, regal atmosphere. We were particularly touched by the high-quality tea sets provided, which allowed us to enjoy our own private tea time in the comfort of the room. Service From the moment we arrived, the staff were exceptional—always smiling, helpful, and genuinely welcoming. Free transportation from the train station was a seamless and much-appreciated touch that set the tone for the rest of our stay. Facilities Every facility was carefully maintained and contributed to the overall harmony of the space. The hotel’s attention to detail extended to every corner, making for a deeply enriching and relaxing experience. Breakfast The only area with room for improvement was the breakfast. Served in a traditional 9-bowl box, it lacked variety and felt more like a school meal than a luxury experience. We would have loved more choices and the ability to select our dishes instead of receiving a pre-chosen set. With an upgraded breakfast service, this hotel would truly be flawless. Final Thoughts This stay was one of the most unique and memorable travel experiences we've ever had. A perfect blend of heritage, hospitality, and comfort. We would return in a heartbeat—and next time, hopefully with a breakfast experience to match the rest of the hotel’s excellence.

Everything was great! The place, the structure, and the people… everyone was so kind and caring. We really loved our stay here! Thank you!!

This is a gorgeous hotel that is centrally-located inside the ancient city with great service. It’s like living in a museum! The hotel is housed in a thoughtfully renovated ancient college with a beautiful courtyard for chatting, eating, and chilling. The rooms are large, clean, and quiet. I really enjoyed the traditional mat style bed. The hotel is a short walk away from the bustling Main Street. It was very convenient to walk to most attractions inside the walled City. The hotel owner also arranged free transport to take me to the high speed rail station. The service was wonderful. No complaints! If you’re staying here, I recommend checking out not just the ancient walled city but also the ancient temples in the area. I would stay here again without hesitation.

We are from overseas and would like to commend that the service is impeccable. They offer pickup and drop off at the high speed rail station. We also went during winter and the room was very warm. No complaints about this hotel and definitely recommend it!