Ciqikou Ancient Town

Location: No. 1, Ci'nan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing 

Opening Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours a day.

Reason to visit: One of the most famous historical and cultural towns in Chongqing

Ciqikou Ancient Town is one of the most famous historical and cultural towns in Chongqing. Located on the banks of the Jialing River in Shapingba District, about 14 kilometers from Chongqing's city center, Ciqikou is renowned for its well-preserved ancient streets, rich history, and vibrant local culture. With a history spanning over 1,700 years, this town, often referred to as "Mini Chongqing," serves as a microcosm of Chongqing's heritage and is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the city's past and present.

A Glimpse into History and Culture

The history of Ciqikou can be traced back to the Song Dynasty when it was an important hub for both land and water transportation, earning its name from the porcelain manufacturing and trade that flourished in the area. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Ciqikou became a bustling commercial center, with thriving dock trade and numerous shops lining its streets. Despite the passage of time, the town has retained many of its ancient buildings and alleys, showcasing the unique charm of traditional Chongqing's urban culture.

Ciqikou is steeped in cultural heritage and is an integral part of Chongqing's historical and cultural landscape. The town is a melting pot of Bayu culture, religious culture, sand and magnetic culture, and folk culture, each with its own distinctive characteristics. Visitors can experience the rustic legacy of Bayu, explore traditional teahouses, and witness the historic dock culture. The town is home to the coexistence of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism in its numerous temples and shrines, adding to its rich cultural tapestry. Performances of Sichuan Opera and fire dragon shows add to the lively atmosphere.

Must-Visit Attractions in Ciqikou Ancient Town

Baolun Temple (宝轮寺 Baolun Shi)  
Also known as Longyin Temple, Baolun Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Chongqing. Located at 76 Heng Street, its key structures include the Daxiong Hall, Guanyin Pavilion, Chuanzhu Hall, Heavenly King Hall, Medicine King Hall, Sutra Library, and Zen Room. The main hall, constructed without a single iron nail, features a magnificent statue of Buddha that exudes a sense of tranquility.

Wenchang Palace（文昌宫 Wenchang Gong）
As the most lively Taoist temple in Ciqikou, Wenchang Palace has a rich history. Legend has it that the exiled Emperor Jianwen frequented this temple to pray to the deity Wenchang Emperor, ultimately deciding to renounce his claim to the throne to prevent further conflict. This historical narrative has made Wenchang Palace a popular place of worship, known for its vibrant incense rituals.

Zhong Family Courtyard（钟家院 Zhongjia Yuan）
Constructed around 1890 by the steward of Empress Dowager Cixi, Zhong Family Courtyard offers a glimpse into the lives of affluent families during the late Qing Dynasty. The courtyard houses antique furniture from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, offering visitors a chance to experience the lifestyle of affluent families from late Qing Dynasty.

Baoshan Palace（宝善宫 Baoshan Gong）
Originally a popular site for believers to pray for blessings, Baoshan Palace was repurposed as a school during the Republican era. It has since transformed into a ceramics museum, illustrating the evolution of porcelain art and the cultural significance of Ciqikou’s ceramics industry.

Deep Well（深水井 Shenshui Jing）
This ancient well from the Ming Dynasty carries historical significance. Legend suggests that Emperor Jianwen of the Ming Dynasty hid here during his exile to evade capture. Visitors can immerse themselves in this piece of history while enjoying tea at nearby teahouses, experiencing the timeless charm of the ancient town.

Stilted Buildings（吊脚楼 Diaojiao Lou）  
Ciqikou's unique stilted buildings are iconic, harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding mountainous landscape. These structures reflect the resilience of the local people, serving as a historical reminder of Chongqing’s architectural ingenuity.

Lotus Pond Ancient Ferry（莲花荡古津渡 Lianhuadang Gujindu）  
This scenic area showcases the historical charm of Ciqikou, featuring traditional shops, Baolun Temple, and local residences that hark back to Chongqing's bustling past. As night falls, the lanterns illuminate the town, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

Must-try Local Delicacies in Ciqikou Ancient Town

Cheng Ma Hua: A famous snack from Ciqikou, known for its crispy and savory texture. Cheng Jianping's shop is a must-visit, often seeing long queues of eager customers.

Mao Xue Wang: This spicy hotpot dish featuring various ingredients like blood tofu and offal is a winter favorite, offering a warm and flavorful experience.

Handmade Rice Cake: Made from glutinous rice, this delicacy is pounded by hand, resulting in a smooth texture that melts in your mouth.

Salt and Pepper Peanuts: These peanuts, flavored with soy sauce and spices, are another local favorite, perfect for snacking while exploring the town.

Soft Braised Bean Curd Skin: A traditional dish made from delicate bean curd skin, stir-fried with meat and vegetables for a flavorful taste.

How to Get There

1. Metro: Take Line 1 to Ciqikou Station（磁器口站）and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the town.
2. Bus: Multiple bus routes (202, 220, 224, 237, 261, 467, 503, 553, 843, and tourist buses T003 and T198) stop at Ciqikou West Gate.