Ciqikou

Ciqikou, also known as Ciqikou Town or Porcelain Port, is a historic town in Shapingba District, Chongqing, China. Located along a river corridor on the edge of the modern city, it preserves a streetscape dating to the Ming and Qing dynasties, with gray brick walls, tiled roofs, and narrow lanes that wind between traditional residences.

The name Ciqikou means “porcelain mouth” or “porcelain port” in Chinese and reflects the area’s historical role as a major transfer point for ceramics. For centuries, porcelain produced in southern China moved through Ciqikou on its way to inland markets, making the town a bustling commercial hub.

Today Ciqikou is a popular tourist destination within Chongqing. The old town retains traditional shops, teahouses, and stalls selling pottery, crafts, and local snacks. Visitors can walk the stone-paved streets, observe craft techniques, and experience a sense of historical life along the riverfront.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Ciqikou has been preserved and adapted for tourism, balancing heritage conservation with modern amenities. The site is widely recognized for its historical architecture and its enduring association with China’s ceramic trade.