Yangtze River Cableway
The Chongqing Yangtze River Cable Car, the world’s longest urban aerial tramway, spans 1,166 meters across the Yangtze River. Originally built in 1986 as public transport, it now offers breathtaking cityscape views and a nostalgic journey between Yuzhong District and Nan’an District, immortalized in films like Crazy Stone
Historical Overview
Constructed in 1986, the cable car revolutionized Chongqing’s transport, ferrying 26,000 passengers daily during its peak. After the city’s metro expansion, it reopened in 2013 as a tourist attraction, preserving its retro red cabins and vintage charm. Key events include hosting the 2006 Asian Film Awards and inspiring global urban transit designs.
Structural Layout
1. The system includes two terminals:North Station (Xinhua Road): Overlooking Jiefangbei CBD and Hongya Cave.
2. South Station (Shangxinjie): Linked to Nanbin Road’s riverside promenade.
The 10-minute ride features 360° glass-bottomed cabins (introduced 2020) and a mid-river support tower, ensuring stability despite Chongqing’s foggy “3D city” terrain.
Major Attractions
1. Riverside View: Gaze at Chaotianmen’s Yangtze-Jialing River confluence and Lizeba’s cliff-hung train station.
2. Night Lights: Witness Chongqing’s neon-lit skyline after sunset, dubbed “Little Hong Kong”.
3. Hongya Cave: A 12-story traditional market complex accessible via the north station.
4. Nanbin Road: Stroll riverside cafes and sculptures near the south station.
Suggested Itineraries
1. Express Ride (30 mins): North → South Station (or vice versa) for photo ops + Hongya Cave visit.
2. Cultural Loop (2 hrs): North Station → Cable Car → Nanbin Road → E’ling Park sunset.
3. Evening Tour (1.5 hrs): 7 PM ride for nightscapes + hotpot dinner at Ciqikou Ancient Town.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via WeChat mini-program “Chongqing Cable Car” (up to 7 days ahead).
On-Site: Scan QR codes at terminals for instant tickets.
Prices: ¥20 one-way (¥18 for seniors/students), ¥30 round-trip.
Transportation
Subway: North Station: Line 1/2, Xiaoshizi Station (Exit 1), 5-min walk. South Station: Line 6, Shangxinjie Station (Exit 6), 10-min walk.
Bus: Routes 0491/0321/0301 to Xiaoshizi or Shangxinjie stops.
Taxi: Direct to terminals; avoid rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM).
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Ride before 9 AM or after 8 PM.
Weather: Clear days offer maximum visibility; fog adds drama (but may obscure views).
- Essentials:
Use cashless payment (Alipay/WeChat).
Hold onto belongings in open-air cabins.
Combine with a trip to Chongqing’s “Light Hill” observation deck for panoramic views.
Yangtze River Cableway Scenic Spots Guide
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