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Ciqikou Ancient Town

Park in Chongqing, China

Travel Tips

Open all day, best to visit all year round except July and August due to heat. It takes 1-3 hours to explore. 1

Best visited in the morning to avoid crowds. 2

Consider visiting the temple if you can manage the 300 steps. Otherwise, enjoy a drink at a local bar. 3

Explore the dozen or so streets and alleys lined with traditional architecture. 4

Explore outside the ancient town for authentic local noodle shops. 5

Explore the street foods and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. 6

Spend a couple of hours wandering the narrow streets and trying local snacks. 7

Avoid visiting in July and August due to the heat. Explore beyond the main streets to discover its ancient charm. 8

Spend half a day to one day exploring the town's traditional architecture and local snacks. 9

Enjoy local snacks and handicraft shopping. 10

Introduction

Overview

• 🏞️ Location: Ciqikou Ancient Town is situated in the Shapingba District of Chongqing, 14km west of Chaotianmen Pier.
• 🏛️ Nickname: Often referred to as 'Little Chongqing' due to its historical significance and preserved architecture.
• 🌳 Geography: Surrounded by three mountains and intersected by one river and two streams, providing a picturesque setting.
• 🛍️ Popularity: A major tourist attraction known for its old-world charm and bustling streets.

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Historical Significance

• 📜 Origins: Established during the Song Dynasty (998-1004) and originally named Baiyachang.
• 🏺 Porcelain: Renamed Ciqikou during the Qing Dynasty due to its thriving porcelain industry.
• 🏯 Temples: Home to numerous historical temples, including the well-preserved Baolun Temple.
• 📚 Cultural Site: Designated as a protected cultural site in 1998.

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Main Attractions

• 🏛️ Zhong Family House: Built around 1890, showcasing Qing Dynasty architecture.
• 🛕 Baolun Temple: A significant Buddhist temple dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
• 🍵 Teahouses: Over 100 teahouses historically, with Shuchang Teahouse being the most famous.
• 🛍️ Pedestrian Street: Bustling with shops, snack stalls, and traditional performances.

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Local Cuisine

• 🍲 Eel with Duck Blood Curd: A local delicacy known for its unique flavor.
• 🍢 Qianzhangpi: Fried sliced bean curd, a popular snack.
• 🥜 Salt Peanuts: One of the 'Three Treasures' of Ciqikou.
• 🍡 Glutinous Rice Cake: Favored for its sweet and soft texture.

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Transportation

• 🚇 Light Rail: Accessible via Light Rail Line 1, with a stop at Ciqikou Station.
• 🚌 Buses: Multiple bus routes including No. 202, 220, 237, 261, 467, 503, 808, and 843.
• 🚖 Taxi: Approximately 50 minutes from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport by taxi.
• 🚆 Train: Direct access from Chongqing Railway Station via Light Rail Line 1.

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Best Time to Visit

• 🌸 Spring: Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time to visit.
• 🍂 Autumn: Comfortable weather and beautiful foliage.
• ☀️ Summer: Can be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 43.8℃.
• ❄️ Winter: Often foggy, which can obscure views.

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Travel Tips

• 🎟️ Tickets: No entrance fee, but Baolun Temple charges ¥5 per person.
• 🚻 Facilities: Limited public toilets; locals may charge ¥1-2 for use.
• 🏨 Accommodation: Youth hostels available for those wishing to stay overnight.
• 📅 Weekdays: Less crowded compared to weekends, making for a more enjoyable visit.

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