Ciqikou Ancient Town
Ciqikou is an ancient town known for its historical buildings and local snacks.
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Location
1 Cinan St, Shapingba District, Chongqing, China
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Ciqikou Ancient Town: Chongqing's Historic Porcelain Port
Ciqikou Ancient Town, located on the Jialing River in Chongqing, is a well-preserved historic district with a history dating back over 1,000 years. Once a bustling porcelain production and transportation hub, it retains much of its traditional charm with ancient buildings, stone-paved streets, and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of old Chongqing.
What to See and Do
Explore Ancient Streets: Wander through the narrow, winding streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, teahouses, and shops. The architecture reflects the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Porcelain and Handicrafts: Discover shops selling traditional porcelain, local handicrafts, and souvenirs. You can often see artisans at work, demonstrating traditional crafts.
Local Snacks and Food: Ciqikou is famous for its wide array of Chongqing snacks and street food. Don't miss trying local specialties like Maoxuewang (spicy duck blood curd), Chen Mahua (fried dough twists), and various spicy noodles. The aroma of hotpot and spices fills the air.
Teahouses: Experience the traditional teahouse culture. Many teahouses offer performances of Sichuan opera, shadow puppetry, or storytelling, providing a glimpse into local entertainment.
Temples: Visit the various temples within the town, such as the Baolun Temple, which add to the historical and cultural ambiance.
Jialing River Views: Enjoy views of the Jialing River, which was once the lifeline of the town's porcelain trade.
Best Time to Visit
Ciqikou is lively throughout the day. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays. Evenings offer a different charm with illuminated streets and a bustling atmosphere.
How to Get There
Take Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station (磁器口站), Exit 1. The ancient town is a short walk from the station.
Travel Tips
Wear comfortable shoes: The streets are paved with stone, and you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Come hungry: There's an endless array of food options to try.
Be aware of crowds: The town can get very busy, especially during peak hours and holidays.
Bargain: In smaller shops, especially for souvenirs, bargaining might be possible.
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