Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing: Unforgettable Culture
By Leo
Visiting Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing felt like stepping into a living history book. This 1,000-year-old riverside town once thrived as a porcelain hub during the Ming Dynasty, and its blue-tiled roofs, wooden storefronts, and stone-paved lanes still tell vivid stories. As I wandered the alleys, the aroma of chili oil and the clinking of tea cups brought the town to life. In this article, I share the most authoritative guide to Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing with practical insights to help you explore it with confidence.
Where is Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing?
Ciqikou Ancient Town, also known as “Porcelain Port,” located in Chongqing‘s Shapingba District, is a 1,000-year-old riverside town celebrated as the “Living Fossil of Old Chongqing” and a national AAAA-level cultural attraction. It was once a bustling trade hub, especially during the Ming and Qing dynasties, when it became famous for its porcelain production. The town’s strategic location on the Jialing River made it a key spot for goods to be loaded and unloaded, earning it the name “Little Chongqing.”
Today, Ciqikou is a living museum of Chongqing’s past. Its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and historic temples take visitors back in time. Walking through the town feels like stepping into a bygone era, where the past and present blend seamlessly.
Top Things to Do in Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing
Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing is famous for its rich history as a porcelain production and trading hub, its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences including Sichuan opera. Visitors can enjoy diverse Chongqing cuisine and street food, savor authentic Chongqing hot pot, and experience the lively atmosphere of Chongqing night along its historic streets.
1. Savor Chongqing Cuisine in Ciqikou Ancient Town
Chen Mahua (Twisted Dough): Crunchy, freshly fried twists in sweet or spicy flavors—found along the narrow streets of Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing.
Spicy Tofu Pudding (Dòu Huā): Silken tofu drenched in chili oil, peanuts, and Sichuan pepper at local carts—a must-try for fans of Chongqing cuisine.
Dragon Beard Candy: Hand-pulled malt sugar threads wrapped around nuts, sold by elderly vendors in hidden alleys.
2. Craft Hands-On Heritage in Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing
Porcelain Painting: Paint Ming-style blue-white porcelain at Ciqikou Ancient Town and take your creation home.
Shadow Puppetry: Carve leather puppets depicting heroes like Guan Yu, then watch them perform in backstreet theaters.
Embroidery Workshops: Stitch silk pandas or peonies under masters’ guidance at Shuixiang Workshop, experiencing traditional crafts firsthand.
3. Witness Living Traditions in Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing
Sichuan Opera Face-Changing: Free performances at teahouses—actors flick wrists to swap masks mid-dance.
Storytelling with Kuài Bǎn: Elders narrate river legends with bamboo clappers at Hongxing Pavilion—shout “Hǎo!” with locals.
Baolun Temple Rituals: Light incense at this 1,000-year-old temple where monks chant amid Ming Dynasty architecture.
4. Explore Hidden Alleys & Night Magic in Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing
Heng Street: Escape the crowds in this serene lane lined with Qing-era courtyards.
Stilted House Lanterns: At dusk, lanterns illuminate Diaojiaolou Square, turning buildings into golden cascades—a perfect scene for Chongqing night photography.
Riverside Mahjong: Join locals playing mahjong by the Jialing River as cargo boats drift past.
Tips for Visiting Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing
To make the most of your visit, here are a few tips:
- How to Get to Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing:
Ciqikou is located in the Shapingba District of Chongqing. The easiest way to get there is by taking Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station. From the station, it’s just a short walk to the town’s entrance. - Best Time to Visit Ciqikou Ancient Town:
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to explore Ciqikou. The weather is mild, and the town is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Avoid visiting during peak summer heat or winter fog. - What to Wear in Ciqikou Ancient Town:
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on cobblestone streets and climbing stairs. Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as Chongqing’s weather can be unpredictable. - Opening Hours of Ciqikou Ancient Town:
Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visit during the day to enjoy historic streets, local food, and the lively Chongqing night atmosphere. - Plan Your Day in Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing:
Allow at least 3–4 hours to explore the town. Start your day early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. After visiting Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing, you can easily continue your day at nearby Hongya Cave, enjoying its riverside views and traditional architecture.
Recommended Visitor Flow for Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing
Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing offers a mix of history, culture, spirituality, and food. Visitors can explore ancient gates and old kiln sites, visit temples and shrines, enjoy traditional arts and performances, taste local Chongqing cuisine, and stroll along the Jialing River or through charming cobblestone alleys.
| Activity Focus | Description | Key Sights/Experiences |
| Historical Immersion | Dive into Ciqikou’s ancient past, understanding its role as a trading hub. | Yinglong Gate, Huangjueping Archway, Old Kiln Sites, Historical buildings. |
| Spiritual Exploration | Discover the town’s diverse religious heritage and tranquil spots. | Baolun Temple, Baoshan Palace, Wenchang Pavilion, various shrines. |
| Cultural Engagement | Witness traditional arts, performances, and the daily life of locals. | Traditional Tea Houses, Sichuan Opera shows, Artisan workshops, Local festivals. |
| Culinary Adventure | Taste your way through the town’s famous local dishes and street snacks. | Chen Mahua (fried dough twist), Chongqing Noodles, Mao Xuewang, various street food stalls. |
| Scenic Strolls | Enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the town and picturesque viewpoints. | Jialing Riverfront, views from Baolun Temple, narrow cobblestone alleys. |
Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing offers more than a destination; it delivers a full cultural experience. Its history, traditional architecture, vibrant activities, and local food make it unforgettable. Exploring narrow lanes, tasting local delicacies, or soaking in the lively atmosphere, Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing leaves lasting memories and immerses you in the heart of Chongqing.