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Rishengchang Exchange Shop

The Rishengchang Exchange Shop was established in 1823 during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), and had about 35 branches in Pingyao City, Shanxi Province. 65 meters (71 yards) long and 20 meters (22 yards) wide, the compound is listed as a key cultural relic by the provincial government. The Rishengchang Exchange Shop had a tremendous influence on the Chinese economy during its 108 years of existence. Generally speaking, the exchange shops traded in bills, making the shop one of the earliest forms of banking. Though the main currency during the Qing Dynasty was the silver coin, the exchange shops could alleviate the traders' problems of carrying large sums of money through cash deposits and transfer of funds from one businessman to the other. The shop is within a compound with three courtyards.
The five rooms facing the street serve as the gate of the shop, with the name sign hanging in the central position above the rooms. Near the first courtyard are the cashiers' offices, which are situated on either side of the passage. In the second courtyard, the three halls were used for money and trade exchange. The third courtyard served as accommodation for the senior staff and due to its location away from the noise of the road also provided a resting place for important customers. Here's some guide information in your travel of the Rishengchang Exchange Shop below: Location: within the Pingyao Ancient City  Admission Fee: CNY120/Person (included in the Pingyao Ancient City) Opening hours: 08:00-17:00

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