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Ciqikou is a historic area offering a glimpse into Chongqing's ancient culture. Stroll through the cobblestone streets lined with traditional architecture, visit tea houses for a traditional tea ceremony, and shop for local crafts such as pottery and silk. A boat ride along the Jialing River provides scenic views of the city from a different perspective.
Ciqikou Ancient Town: a National AAAA-level Scenic Area, a Famous Historical and Cultural Street in China, a Key Traditional Street Protected by Chongqing Municipality, one of Chongqing's "New Twelve Scenic Spots of Bayu," and a Bayu Folk Culture Tourism Circle. Located on the banks of the Jialing River in Shapingba District, Chongqing, Ciqikou Ancient Town, founded during the Song Dynasty, boasts a unique topography of "one river, two streams, three mountains, and four streets," forming a natural harbor and serving as a key water and land port on the Jialing River. Once a bustling place with "thousands of people clasping their hands during the day and thousands of bright lights at night," Ciqikou Ancient Town is rich in Bayu culture, religious traditions, Shaci culture, Hongyan culture, and folk culture, each with its own distinct characteristics. Ciqikou, with its cobblestone streets and millennia-old history, epitomizes and symbolizes Chongqing's ancient city, earning it the nickname "Little Chongqing."
Ciqikou is an ancient town dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It was once a vital port for trade and a thriving cultural center. Today, it is a preserved historical district that showcases Chongqing’s ancient charm and plays an essential role in the city's cultural tourism.
Ciqikou is located in the Shapingba District of Chongqing, about 15 km from the city center. You can get there by metro (Line 1, Ciqikou Station), bus, or taxi. Walking from nearby areas is also possible for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
Ciqikou is open year-round, with most shops and attractions open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. It is also less crowded in the early mornings or late afternoons, especially on weekdays.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the general Ciqikou area. However, some specific attractions, like museums or performances, may require a fee of around 20 CNY to 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, or some attractions may offer online booking through local platforms like WeChat or Alipay.
Booking in advance is not necessary for most of Ciqikou, as entry to the historic streets is free. However, for specific attractions or activities, such as tea ceremonies or river cruises, booking a few days in advance is recommended, particularly during peak seasons.
A visit to Ciqikou typically takes 2-3 hours. If you want to explore the tea houses, try local snacks, and shop for souvenirs, you may need up to 4 hours. For a more relaxed visit, plan to spend the entire afternoon.
Key highlights include the ancient streets lined with traditional wooden houses, the local handicraft shops, and the famous Temple of the Lord of the City. The Jialing River offers a beautiful backdrop for photos, and don’t miss the traditional tea houses where you can enjoy a cultural tea ceremony.
Guided tours are available, with some local guides offering services in Mandarin. English-speaking guides can be found at some major attractions. Audio guides may be available at select attractions, but it’s recommended to arrange a guide in advance if you prefer English explanations.
The best photography spots include the panoramic views of the ancient streets from the hilltops, the picturesque Jialing River with boats in the background, and the traditional architecture that lines the narrow alleys. Sunset views from the riverbanks also offer a great photo opportunity.
Start at the main entrance of Ciqikou and wander through the narrow alleys to explore traditional architecture and shops. Visit the Temple of the Lord of the City for a bit of history, and then enjoy a tea ceremony at one of the local tea houses. Finish with a boat ride along the Jialing River for scenic views of the area.
Ciqikou is open in the evening, and while it doesn’t feature large-scale light shows, the area is beautifully lit at night, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Some tea houses may offer evening performances of traditional music and dance. A river cruise at night offers a romantic way to see the city lit up.
Ciqikou can be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays, particularly from Monday to Thursday.
Ciqikou has public restrooms available throughout the area. There are numerous food stalls, restaurants, and tea houses serving local dishes and snacks. Shops sell souvenirs, local crafts, and specialty foods. Rest areas are also available for visitors to relax.
Ciqikou is a historic area with cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, which may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. However, it is generally accessible for children. Some parts of the area have ramps, but for a more comfortable experience, it’s best to take it slow or consider using a stroller for children.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at most locations in Ciqikou. Credit cards are not commonly accepted, and it's advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller purchases or in more remote areas.
Inside Ciqikou, you’ll find several traditional tea houses, offering local snacks and tea ceremonies. Nearby, there are a variety of local restaurants serving Chongqing hotpot, noodle dishes, and river fish.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many local restaurants, especially in the form of tofu and vegetable dishes. Halal food options may be more limited, but there are some Muslim-friendly restaurants in the area.
Several hotels are located near Ciqikou, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For more luxurious options, you can stay in the city center of Chongqing and take a short metro ride to the site.
Nearby attractions include the Three Gorges Museum, the Dazu Rock Carvings, and the Hongya Cave. These are all easily accessible by public transport and make for great additions to a day trip from Ciqikou.
Souvenir shops in Ciqikou sell traditional Chinese crafts such as pottery, silk products, paper fans, and embroidered textiles. You can also buy locally made snacks, such as Chongqing hotpot spices or preserved fruits.
After visiting Ciqikou, you can take a metro or bus to other parts of Chongqing. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi are also available for more direct transport to nearby attractions or the city center.
