Nestled along the Jialing River in Chongqing, Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇) is a 1,000-year-old labyrinth of Ming-Qing architecture, fiery Sichuan flavors, and porcelain lore. Dubbed “Little Chongqing,” this UNESCO-listed gem merges cliffside alleys with buzzing markets, making it a top-rated cultural hotspot Here’s why it’s a must-visit for travelers craving authentic China.
A Porcelain Legacy Carved in Time
Born as Baiyanchang in 998 CE, Ciqikou evolved from a Song Dynasty trade hub to a Ming-era refuge for Emperor Jianwen, who hid in its Baolun Temple after a royal coup
Must-See Treasures
1.Baolun Temple & Dragon’s Hideaway
This Tang-era temple, rebuilt in 1650, hides a secret: its main hall uses zero nails, supported by 600-year-old masang wood pillars
Spot the “龙隐禅院” plaque marking Emperor Jianwen’s hideout and the mythical “Dragon’s Well,” where he allegedly summoned spring water to survive
2.Cliffside Alleys & Stairway Wonders
Wander cobblestone lanes like Zhengyu Street, where Qing-era guildhouses now host teahouses and embroidery studios. Don’t miss the Skyline Walkways—steep staircases offering panoramic views of tiled rooftops and the misty Jialing River
3.Time Capsules: Hanlin Academy & Zhong Family Courtyard
The Hanlin Academy, a Qing scholar’s retreat, birthed three imperial exam champions
Nearby, the Zhong Family Courtyard blends northern and southern architectural styles, once home to a Qing royal steward
Taste the “Spicy Soul of Chongqing”
Ciqikou is a foodie’s paradise:
- Mao Xue Wang: Dive into Chongqing’s iconic spicy blood curd stew, best sampled at Chen’s Old Street Eatery
- Handmade Noodles: Watch artisans pull dough into silky threads at Ancient Well Noodle House
- Ciqikou Twist: Crunch into sweet-and-salty sesame twists from Chen Jianping’s 80-year-old shop—a local obsession
For quieter moments, sip Mingqing Tea in a riverside teahouse while listening to Sichuan opera’s hypnotic “face-changing” acts
Cultural Gems & Hidden Stories
- Porcelain DIY: Mold clay at Shaping Kiln Workshop, reviving techniques from the 1918 Shu Porcelain Factory
- War Relics: Explore WWII bunkers beneath the town, once used by the 25th Armory Factory to resist Japanese bombings
- Artistic Legacy: Nobel laureate Samuel C.C. Ting studied here, while poets like Guo Moruo found inspiration in its misty vistas
Smart Travel Tips
- Best Time: Spring (March-May) for mild weather; avoid weekends to dodge crowds.
- Transport: Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station, then a 10-minute walk. River cruises to Hongya Cave depart from the Ciqikou Ferry Terminal
- Photo Ops: Capture golden-hour hues at Riverside Promenade or the Nine Palaces & Eighteen Temples complex
- Local Secret: Find the hidden Loft Café near Baolun Temple for rooftop views sans tourists
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