The character of “sheng” in its name is the old version. Located in the prosperous section of the West Street, the “first street of finance in the Qing Dynasty”, in the Ancient City of Pingyao, Rishengchang is known as the first exchange shop and the forerunner of modern banks in China. During over a century from its establishment in the early years of Daoguang era in the Qing Dynasty to closure, Rishengchang was famed for “connecting the world” as it once “led China’s finance” with subsidiaries in 35 large and medium-sized cities in China and sprawling presence in Europe, America, and Southeast Asia. It was this small courtyard that pioneered China’s national banking and once dominated the economic lifeline of the entire Qing Dynasty in the 19th century. As an outstanding representative of Shanxi merchant culture, its architectural style and scale are typical yet unique. The exchange shop adopts a triple-entry hallway courtyard with the traditional features of Jinzhong residences as well as the style of local shops, which achieved the harmonious blend of architectural art and practical function.