Ciqikou (Porcelain Port)
Last updated on
Introducing the Ciqikou (Porcelain Port)
Ciqikou, often referred to as Porcelain Port, is a town steeped in history situated in the Shapingba District of Chongqing. With a rich history that spans over a millennium, Ciqikou was once a thriving port on the western bank of the Jialing River. Ciqikou earned its moniker from its fame as a hub for porcelain production during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. At its peak, the town was home to more than 70 porcelain factories.
Today, Ciqikou serves as a major tourist hotspot. It has been preserved as a pedestrian-friendly zone for shopping and dining, offering visitors a window into Chongqing’s past. The town boasts numerous shops selling porcelain and other handicrafts, eateries offering local cuisine, and tea shops. Despite Chongqing’s swift modernization, Ciqikou stands as a testament to “Old Chongqing”, continuing to reflect the city’s abundant cultural heritage.
The Ciqikou (Porcelain Port) Fast Facts
• Name in Chinese: 磁器口
• Chinese Pinyin: Ci Qi Kou
• AKA: Ciqikou Ancient Town
• Location: Shapingba District, Chongqing
• Area: Approximately 1.18 square kilometers or 291.6 acres.
• Visiting Time: 2 – 4 x hours
Reasons to Visit the Ciqikou (Porcelain Port)
To experience traditional Chinese culture: Ciqikou is a great place to experience traditional Chinese culture. The town is home to a number of well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, as well as traditional Chinese shops and restaurants. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Chinese performances, such as Sichuan opera and face changing.
To try delicious local cuisine: Ciqikou is known for its delicious local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include Mao Xuewang (spicy blood duck hotpot), Qianzhangpi (thinly sliced bean curd), and Salt Peanuts. Visitors can also find a variety of other Chinese dishes, such as dumplings, noodles, and stir-fries.
To enjoy a lively atmosphere: Ciqikou is a very lively town, especially at night. The streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, stopping to shop, eat, or drink. There are also a number of street performers who entertain the crowds.
What to Expect at the Ciqikou (Porcelain Port)
Located on the shores of the Jialing River, near its confluence with the mighty Yangtze River, lies the ancient town of Ciqikou. This town is a blend of both authentic and restored structures, inhabited by locals who continue to uphold traditional lifestyles. A millennium after its establishment, Ciqikou stands as a beacon of old Chongqing, preserving its ancient streets teeming with tea houses, eateries, craftwork shops, and souvenir stores.
Ciqikou Wharf
In the era of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the wharf at Ciqikou played a crucial role in transporting goods along the Jialing River. Its origins can be traced back to the Tang and Song Dynasties, and it flourished in tandem with the rest of the ancient town when porcelain production began to thrive. Although the old wharf in Ciqikou has given way to more contemporary developments, one can still stroll down the ancient streets leading to what was once the gateway to the old town from the wharf.
Teahouses
During its peak, Ciqikou was home to more than 100 teahouses. These establishments were not just for relaxation, but also served as venues for business transactions. Given the abundance of porcelain factories and merchants in the area, teahouses became popular meeting spots for business discussions. The larger teahouses, some of which are still in operation today, even hosted performances of Sichuan Opera.
Imperial Academy
The Imperial Academy, an ancient private institution, is tucked away in a narrow alley off a main thoroughfare. During Emperor Qianlong’s rule in the Qing Dynasty, the Sun Family operated a private school known locally as the Lishi Thatched Cottage or simply the Lishi School. As the Qing Dynasty progressed, the school gained renown when several of its students passed the provincial-level imperial examinations to gain admission into the imperial academy. This led to the small school earning the nickname “The Imperial Academy”.
Baolun Temple
Constructed during the Western Wei Dynasty between 535 – 556 AD, Baolun Temple, originally known as Baiya Temple, boasts a history spanning approximately 1500 years. This architectural gem of China was built without using a single nail. It is believed that the Jianwen Emperor of the Ming Dynasty once sought refuge here, leading locals to refer to it as Longyin Temple. This name signifies the concealed dwelling of the true dragon or the son of heaven in ancient China. Consequently, Ciqikou has also been referred to as Longyin Town.
Zhong Family Courtyard
Constructed around 1890, Zhong’s Courtyard is the creation of Mr. Zhong, a native of Ciqikou. The courtyard beautifully blends the allure of northern courtyards with the refined elegance of southern homes. It also serves as a showcase for ancient cultural artifacts from the Ming and Qing dynasties, including porcelain, beds, traditional round tables, and other household items.
Pedestrian Street
Ciqikou’s bustling pedestrian street, steeped in a thousand years of history, is the heart of this ancient area. The traditional buildings lining the street house an array of shops offering snacks, souvenirs, and costumes. The area is a blend of the modern and the traditional, with trendy bars featuring live music from young artists, alongside traditional teahouses where opera performances are held. For those seeking tranquility, serene gardens tucked away in the alleys offer a peaceful retreat.
The Ciqikou (Porcelain Port) Visitor's Guide
Ticket & Opening Hours
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Opening Hours: 24 hours
How to Get There
• By bus: take a bus to Ciqikou. The buses that go there are 202, 220, 224, 237, 261, 467, 503, 808, or 843.
• By subway: take Subway Line 1 to Ciqikou Station.
Want to Travel Here?
Go tailor-made!
Meticulously Plan
- Plan your tailor-made trip with a Destination Expert.
Personalized Itineraries
- Attentive listening, expert guidance, flawless execution.
Risk-Free Booking
- Book securely with money-back guarantee.
Stress-Free Travel
- Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/4 support.
Why Our Custom Itineraries?
Travel Experts
- Talented expertise, turn your dream trip into reality.
Local Knowledge
- Locals-only experiences, thanks to our local knowledge.
Putting You First
- Every step of your trip, we go above and beyond.
Popular Tours
- Beijing, Xian, Guiln, Shanghai
- Beijing, Xian, Shanghai
