Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy a 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Basic Facts about Chaotianmen Dock
- Chinese Name: 朝天门码头（Pinyin: Chaotianmen Matou）
- Location: No. 19, Yangtze River Binjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
- Tickets: Free
- Opening Hours: All Day
- Things to Do: Yangtze River cruise, Enjoy a stunning view of Chongqing at night, Enjoy a river view of the Yangtze and Jialing Crossing
Chongqing Jiangbei Airport: the Only International Airport in Chongqing
- Chinese Name: 重庆江北国际机场
- IATA Code: CKG
- Location: Lianglu Street, Yubei District, Chongqing, 19 km from the city center
- Transport: The Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is well connected to rail, metro, airport bus, city shuttle, taxi, and private vehicle.
Distance from Chongqing Jiangbei Airport to Chaotianmen Dock
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, the only international airport in Chongqing, is located in Yubei District, approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Chaotianmen Dock in Yuzhong District.
Travelers have 4 convenient transportation options to reach Chaotianmen Dock from the airport, including private car services, airport buses, the metro, and taxis.
1. Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock by Private Car - Direct to Your Boarding Wharf
Traveling from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport to Chaotianmen Dock by private car offers a stress-free experience. The drive takes approximately 40-50 minutes, making it one of the fastest ways to reach your destination.
With Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT), you can enjoy exclusive private transfer services tailored to your needs. Our experienced local drivers are well-versed in Chongqing’s complex terrain and will take you directly to your specific boarding wharf at Chaotianmen Dock.
In addition to seamless transportation, AOT provides comprehensive travel support, including:
- Luggage Handling: Hassle-free assistance with your belongings.
- Tour Guides: Professional English-speaking guides to enhance your travel experience.
- Itinerary Planning: Customizable plans in Chongqing and other destinations in China to suit your interests and schedule.
- Attraction Ticket Booking: Save time and secure entry to popular sites.
- Meals and Accommodation Arrangements: Ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your trip.
2. Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock by Metro - Not Direct, Need a Transfer
If you plan to take the metro from Chongqing Jiangbei Airport to Chaotianmen Dock, start with Line 10 and transfer to either Line 1 or Line 9. The entire journey takes about one hour. After arriving at the Chaotianmen Dock station, follow the direction signs to locate your boarding pier.
Refer to the table below for metro routes, distances, and approximate travel times.
| Routes | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Metro Line 10 + Line 1 | 27.1 km | 1h 3m |
| Metro Line 10 + Line 9 + Line 6 | 22.6 km | 1h 1m |
3. Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock by Taxi - Potential Language Barrier
Local Chongqing drivers are more familiar with the city’s unique traffic conditions than navigation apps, making taxis another convenient option to travel from Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock. The drive takes about 40-50 minutes and is particularly suitable for travelers with a lot of luggage.
Upon exiting the airport, you’ll see a line of the iconic "yellow Ferraris" (Chongqing taxis). Once onboard, show the driver your destination: Chaotianmen Dock (Chinese: 朝天门码头) and your specific wharf.
However, be prepared to overcome language barriers, as most local taxi drivers do not speak English.
4. Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock by Airport Bus - Requires Transfer, Not Recommended
Airport Shuttle Bus K01 also serves Chongqing Jiangbei Airport. If you’d like to experience Chongqing’s bus system, take Shuttle Bus K01 and transfer to other shuttle buses.
However, the total journey takes 1.5-2 hours, making it the least convenient option discussed here and not highly recommended.
| Routes | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Bus K01 + Shuttle Bus T002 | 33.4 km | 1h 29m |
| Airport Bus K01 + Shuttle Bus 181 | 33.5 km | 1h 54m |
Insider Tips for Getting from Chongqing Jiangbei Airport to Chaotianmen Dock
- Seasonal Transfers to Fengdu Port or Fuling Port
During the low-water season (March to May) and high-water season (July and August), cruise ships may depart from alternate ports such as Fengdu Port (丰都港) or Fuling Port (涪陵港).
Between 18:00 and 19:30, take the free transfer bus provided by the cruise company at:
1. Chongqing Longtousi Tourism Distribution Center (重庆龙头寺旅游集散中心)
2. Chongqing Grand Theater Bus Station (重庆大剧院公交车站)
3. Huguang Huiguan (重庆湖广会馆)
- Luggage Storage for Short Stopovers
If you have only half a day in Chongqing before boarding, consider using luggage storage services at Raffles City or at the Chaotianmen Dock ticket office. This allows you to explore the city without the hassle of carrying your bags.
- Overnight Stays in Chongqing
For travelers spending the night in Chongqing, Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street (解放碑步行街) and Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street (观音桥步行街) are excellent areas to stay. Both offer a bustling city vibe with shopping and dining.
- Navigating the 11 Docks at Chaotianmen
Chaotianmen Dock has 11 boarding points spread across the Jialing River and Yangtze River sides.
>> Jialing River Side: Docks 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 10
>> Yangtze River Side: Docks 7, 9, 11, 15, 17
Finding the correct boarding dock can be confusing due to the size and layout of the port. To avoid delays and confusion, we recommend booking transfer services with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT). AOT ensures you are taken directly to your specific boarding point, saving you time and hassle.
- Navigating the Dock’s Many Steps
Chaotianmen Dock features numerous steps, making it challenging for travelers with heavy luggage. Consider hiring porters or opting for a private transfer service like Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT), which includes luggage handling assistance.
- Boarding Times
Ensure you arrive at the correct dock at least 1–2 hours before departure. This allows time for check-in, boarding, and any unforeseen delays. It’s advised to board between 17:00 and 19:00.
How to Plan a Chongqing Trip before the Yangtze River Cruise?
Chaotianmen Dock, located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, offers a stunning view of the merging waterways. It is also the starting and ending point for Yangtze River cruises. As night falls, the dock transforms into one of Chongqing’s most picturesque spots to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightscape.
In addition to Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing’s city center and nearby areas are rich in attractions. Here's how you can plan your trip:
Half to One Day in Downtown Chongqing
Explore the Chongqing city’s highlights, including:
- Hongya Caves (洪崖洞): A unique multi-level structure showcasing traditional stilted buildings, dining, and shopping, and offers a stunning view at night.
- Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street (解放碑): The bustling heart of downtown, perfect for shopping and soaking in the local vibe.
- Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口): A charming riverside town with narrow streets, traditional architecture, and local snacks.
- Three Gorges Museum (三峡博物馆): Learn about the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Three Gorges region.
- Liziba Station: A quirky metro stop where the train passes through a residential building - an iconic photo spot.
Add Another Day: Dazu Rock Carvings
Dedicate a full day to visit the Dazu Rock Carvings (大足石刻), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient Buddhist sculptures, dating back to the Tang and Song Dynasties, are a testament to China’s rich cultural and artistic history.
Extra Day: Wulong Karst Scenic Areas
For nature enthusiasts, spend an additional day exploring the breathtaking Wulong Karst Scenic Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include:
- Three Natural Bridges (天生三桥): Majestic limestone bridges surrounded by lush greenery.
- Longshuixia Gorge (龙水峡地缝): A stunning canyon with towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Dive into Chongqing & Yangtze River with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)
Exploring the vibrant city of Chongqing and embarking on a Yangtze River cruise becomes effortless with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT).
From Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock, AOT provides seamless private transfer services tailored to your needs, ensuring you reach the exact boarding wharf hassle-free. Our expertise extends beyond transportation, offering comprehensive support like luggage handling, tour guiding, customized itineraries, attraction ticket booking, and accommodation arrangements.
Choose AOT to unlock the best of Chongqing and embark on your Yangtze River adventure with confidence and convenience. Let AOT handle the details while you immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this remarkable destination!
Data in submission...
