Nestled along the banks of the Jialing River in Chongqing’s Shapingba District, Ciqikou Ancient Town is a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant street life. Known as “Little Chongqing,” this 1,000-year-old town, originally called Longyin Town, earned its name “Porcelain Port” during the Ming and Qing Dynasties as a bustling hub for porcelain trade. Today, its cobblestone alleys, traditional architecture, and lively markets make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into Chongqing’s past. This guide will help you plan a memorable trip to Ciqikou.
A Travel Guide to Ciqikou Ancient Town
Why Visit Ciqikou Ancient Town?
Ciqikou offers a living museum of Chongqing’s heritage, with well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings, ancient temples, and a thriving food scene. Often described as a microcosm of old Chongqing, the town is famous for its spicy street food, traditional teahouses, and cultural performances like Sichuan Opera. Its scenic riverside setting and blend of Bayu, Buddhist, and folk cultures make it a unique stop for history buffs, foodies, and photographers alike. As a national AAAA-level scenic spot, Ciqikou is both accessible and rich in experiences, perfect for a half-day or full-day adventure.
How to Get There
Ciqikou is conveniently located just 14 km from downtown Chongqing, making it easily accessible:
By Metro: Take Chongqing Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station. The station is a 5–10-minute walk from the town’s main entrance (Southwest Gate). Travel time from central Chongqing (e.g., Jiefangbei) is about 20–30 minutes, with a fare of ¥2–4.
By Bus: Buses such as 202, 220, 224, 237, 261, 467, 503, 808, or 843 stop at Ciqikou Main Entrance. The fare is around ¥2. From Shapingba District, a minibus or bus takes about 10 minutes (¥1–2).
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Didi): A taxi from Chongqing’s city center (e.g., Yuzhong District) takes 15–25 minutes and costs ¥18–30. From Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, expect a 40-minute ride for about ¥-Chongqing’s city center (e.g., Yuzhong District) takes 15–25 minutes and costs ¥18–30. From Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, expect a 40-minute ride for about ¥60. Set your destination to “Ciqikou Ancient Town (Southwest Gate)” for the most direct route.
By Car: Drive via the Inner Ring Expressway to Shapingba District. Parking is available near the main entrance, with fees around ¥5–10/hour.
Accessibility Note: The town’s cobblestone streets and steps can be challenging for strollers or wheelchairs. Consider foldable strollers or portable wheelchairs, and store luggage at the Ciqikou Tourist Center (free, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM).
Best Time to Visit
Seasons: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather (18–25°C), ideal for exploring the town’s outdoor alleys and riverside. Summer (July–August) is hot and humid (up to 35°C), while winter (December–February) can be chilly (5–10°C).
Time of Day: Visit in the early morning (8:00–10:00 AM) for a quieter experience before crowds arrive. Dusk and evening bring a magical atmosphere with lanterns illuminating the town, perfect for photography.
Festivals: The Spring Festival Temple Fair (January or February) is a highlight, featuring dragon dances, Sichuan Opera, and bustling markets, though it draws large crowds.
Weather Tip: Chongqing’s nickname, “Furnace City,” reflects its scorching summers. Bring sunscreen, hats, and water for summer visits, and light layers for spring or autumn.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: The town is open 24 hours, but most shops, restaurants, and teahouses operate from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Temples like Baolun Temple may close earlier (around 5:00 PM).
Admission: Entry to Ciqikou is free. Some attractions, such as Baolun Temple or specific exhibits, may charge a small fee (¥5–10).
Booking: No advance tickets are needed for the town, but guided tours or special performances (e.g., Sichuan Opera) can be booked via platforms like Trip.com or China Discovery.
What to See and Do
Ciqikou’s 12 streets are packed with historical sites, cultural experiences, and culinary delights:
Explore Historic Architecture: Wander the cobblestone alleys lined with Ming and Qing-style buildings, including iconic stilted houses (diaojiao lou) that blend with the hilly landscape. The Yinglong Gate, a Qing Dynasty landmark, was once the “Throat into Southwest China” and a key trade portal. Visit the Zhong Family House (circa 1890), showcasing Qing Dynasty furniture and a blend of Beijing quadrangle and southern Chinese architectural styles.
Visit Baolun Temple: Also known as Longyin Temple, this 1,500-year-old Buddhist temple on Baiyan Hill dates to the Tang Dynasty. It’s famous for its nail-free Ming Dynasty main hall and as a rumored hideout for the Jianwen Emperor. With over 300 monks and vibrant Buddhist activities, it’s a spiritual highlight. Admission: ~¥5.
Experience Teahouse Culture: Ciqikou once had over 100 teahouses, a legacy that continues in riverside venues offering Chongqing-style tea and cultural performances like Sichuan Opera (face-changing shows) or pingshu (storytelling). Try a traditional ear-cleaning service for a unique experience.
Savor Street Food: Ciqikou is a foodie’s paradise, known for spicy Chongqing specialties: Chen Mahua: Crispy, savory twisted pastries, a must-try at Cheng Jianping’s shop (expect queues). Maoxuewang: A spicy hotpot with blood tofu and offal, perfect for winter. Chongqing Noodles (Xiaomian): Spicy, numbing noodles for ¥10–15. Jiaoyan Peanuts and Qianzhangpi (tofu skin) are local favorites. Avoid street hawkers selling “Jinximei” fruit, as it’s often overpriced and subpar.
Shop for Souvenirs: Browse shops selling porcelain, handmade jewelry, shadow puppets, and spices. Bargain for vintage items like old cameras or books at antique stores. Look for folk art, calligraphy, or sugar painting demonstrations by local artisans.
Enjoy Riverside Views: Stroll along the Jialing River for scenic views, especially at the Lotus Pond Ancient Ferry area, where lanterns create a magical evening ambiance. Climb to upper levels of buildings for panoramic shots of the town and river.
Where to Eat
Street Food Stalls: Most dining in Ciqikou is casual, with stalls and small eateries offering affordable dishes (¥5–20). Try hotpot, grilled skewers, or tofu pudding for authentic flavors.
Teahouses and Restaurants: Riverside teahouses serve snacks and meals alongside tea, with some offering opera performances. For a sit-down meal, look for restaurants near Jinrongzhen Street specializing in Chongqing cuisine.
Nearby Options: For more variety, head to Shapingba District (10-minute drive) for chain restaurants or international fare.
Tip: Bring cash or use WeChat Pay/Alipay, as some stalls may not accept cards.
Where to Stay
Most visitors explore Ciqikou in 3–4 hours, making it a day trip from central Chongqing. However, staying nearby or in the town offers a slower-paced experience:
In Ciqikou: Youth hostels and guesthouses in the town, decorated in antique styles, cost ¥100–200/night. They’re cozy but basic, ideal for immersive stays.
Shapingba District: Wyndham Chongqing Shapingba (4-star, ~10-minute drive): Modern comfort, ¥400–600/night. Holiday Inn Express (3-star, ~15-minute drive): Budget-friendly, ¥200–350/night.
Downtown Chongqing (Yuzhong District): For urban convenience, stay near Jiefangbei or Hongyadong (20–30 minutes away). Budget hotels start at ¥100/night, while mid-range options like Hilton Chongqing cost ¥300–500/night.
Booking Tip: Use Trip.com or Ctrip for deals, and book early during holidays like Spring Festival.
Tips for a Great Visit
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Cobblestone streets and slopes require sturdy footwear.
Arrive Early or Stay Late: Mornings are less crowded, while evenings offer a festive vibe with lights.
Bargain Smartly: Haggling is common in shops, but stay respectful.
Combine Your Trip: Pair Ciqikou with nearby attractions like the General Stilwell Museum (12 km away), Geleshan National Forest Park (7 km), or Three Gorges Museum in downtown Chongqing.
Cultural Respect: Follow temple etiquette (e.g., no loud noises at Baolun Temple) and avoid littering to preserve the town’s heritage.
Language Tip: Download a translation app (e.g., Baidu Translate) or learn basic phrases, as English signage is limited.
Final Thoughts
Ciqikou Ancient Town is more than a tourist spot—it’s a vibrant journey into Chongqing’s soul. From savoring spicy noodles to exploring ancient temples and teahouses, every step through its narrow alleys tells a story of history and tradition. Whether you’re chasing cultural immersion, culinary adventures, or simply a break from Chongqing’s modern sprawl, Ciqikou delivers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit for spring or autumn, embrace the lively atmosphere, and let this “Porcelain Port” charm you with its timeless allure.
Happy travels!
