Your browser does not support the running script, you cannot get a perfect browsing
HOTTake China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy a 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price! Learn more >>

How to Get to Chaotianmen Dock for the Yangtze River Cruise

Written by Felicia|Updated: 2025-01-10

Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing serves as the embarkation point for Yangtze River Cruise traveling from Chongqing to Yichang. Located at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River in the heart of the city, Chaotianmen Dock has become one of Chongqing's most iconic landmarks. Thanks to its central location, accessing the dock is highly convenient. Whether you're arriving from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, one of the city’s major train stations, or nearby tourist attractions, you can easily reach the dock by taxi or metro. For the most efficient and accurate way to get to your specific embarkation point, taking a taxi is recommended.

This article provides a detailed guide on the distance, transportation options, travel time, and costs for getting to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing’s airport and two major train stations. This will help you select the best travel option, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to the dock, and making your boarding experience for the Yangtze River Cruise as seamless as possible, setting the stage for an unforgettable voyage along the Three Gorges.

Visa-free Travel to China:

Starting December 2024, transit travelers from 54 countries can stay for up to 10 days without a visa. Better yet, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and several Asian countries enjoy 30-day visa-free stays through 2025.

US, UK, and Canadian passport holders can visit for 6 days visa-free. Learn more details about How to Visit China Without a Visa in 2025>>

Content Preview

  • triangleWhere is Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing?
  • triangleGet to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
  • triangleGet to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing North Railway Station
  • triangleGet to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing West Railway Station
  • triangleBoarding Access at Chaotianmen Dock
  • triangleTips When Heading to Chaotianmen Dock
  • triangleHow to Plan a Chongqing Tour Before Getting to Chaotianmen Dock
  • triangleEnjoy Your Yangtze River Cruise Journey with Asia Odyssey Travel

How to Get to Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock?

Chongqing Chaotianmen Port for Yangtze River
Chongqing Chaotianmen Port for Yangtze River
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing

Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing serves as the embarkation point for Yangtze River Cruises traveling from Chongqing to Yichang. Located at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River in the heart of the city, Chaotianmen Dock has become one of Chongqing's most iconic landmarks. Thanks to its central location, accessing the dock is highly convenient. Whether you're arriving from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, one of the city’s major train stations, or nearby tourist attractions, you can easily reach the dock by taxi or metro. For the most efficient and accurate way to get to your specific embarkation point, taking a taxi is recommended.

This article provides a detailed guide on the distance, transportation options, travel time, and costs for getting to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing’s airport and two major train stations. This will help you select the best travel option, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to the dock, and making your boarding experience for the Yangtze River Cruise as seamless as possible, setting the stage for an unforgettable voyage along the Three Gorges.

Where is Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing?

The Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing is located at the heart of the city, where the Jialing River and Yangtze River meet. The dock is shaped like the bow of a ship, with a total of 18 docking points along both riverbanks. Odd-numbered docks are situated on the Yangtze River side (e.g., Docks 5, 7, 11), while even-numbered docks are on the Jialing River side (e.g., Docks 2, 6, 8).

Among them, the most commonly used docks for Yangtze River cruises are located at:

  • Docks 6 and 8 on the Jialing River side (northwest side).
  • Docks 11, 15, and 17 on the Yangtze River side (southeast side).

To take a Yangtze River Cruise from Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing, you would first need to travel to Chongqing by either plane or high-speed train, depending on your starting location.

Get to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) is the main airport serving the city, and it’s 25 kilometers north away from Chaotianmen Dock. It is well connected to major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, and some international destinations such as Bangkok, Tokyo, Singapore.

To get to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG), you have several transportation options depending on your preference for convenience, cost, and time.

Chaotianmen Port
Chaotianmen Port
Cruise at the Chaotianmen Port
Cruise at the Chaotianmen Port

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (DiDi) - Highly Recommended

  • Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Cost: Taxi fare usually ranges between ¥50-70 (around $7-10 USD).

Once you arrive at the airport, you can find taxis at the Taxi Stand (usually outside the arrival halls). Alternatively, you can use a ride-hailing service like DiDi. Just input your destination as Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头). This is the most direct and comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or if you are unfamiliar with the area.

By Private Car or Hotel Shuttle

  • Time: Around 40-50 minutes.
  • Cost: Prices vary depending on the service, but it’s usually higher than a taxi, typically ranging from ¥100-150 (around $15-22 USD).

Some hotels or cruise lines may offer private transfers from the airport to Chaotianmen Dock, especially if you're taking a river cruise. This is the most comfortable and hassle-free option, especially if you're traveling in a group or with heavy luggage.

Contact us if you need further details or help with booking any transport!

Related Article:Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock | 4 Options from Chongqing Jiangbei to Chaotianmen

By Metro

  • Time: Approximately 1 hour.
  • Cost: Around ¥10-15 (about $1-2 USD).

This is the most cost-effective option, but it can be less comfortable and a little complex if you're carrying heavy luggage.

Step 1: From Jiangbei Airport, take Chongqing Metro Line 10 (Blue Line) from Airport Station (重庆机场站) to Qixinggang Station (七星岗站)

Step 2: Take Chongqing Metro Line 1 (Red Line) from Qixinggang Station (七星岗站) to Chaotianmen Station (朝天门站)

Step 3: After exiting at Chaotianmen Station, it’s about a 5-10 minute walk to Chaotianmen Dock.

Chongqing Chaotianmen
Chongqing Chaotianmen
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing

Get to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing North Railway Station

Chongqing North Railway Station (重庆北站) is one of the main train station and it’s 12 kilometers north away from Chaotianmen Dock. It is well connected to major cities in China such as Chengdu, Beijing, Shanghai.

To get to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing North Railway Station (重庆北站), there are a few transportation options depending on your preferences:

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (DiDi): Fastest and most Convenient way

  • Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Cost: Taxi fare is around ¥30-50 (about $5-7 USD).

Once you exit Chongqing North Railway Station, you can easily find taxis at the taxi stand or use a ride-hailing service like DiDi. Simply input Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头) as your destination. This is the most direct and comfortable option, especially if you have luggage.

Chongqing West Railway Station
Chongqing West Railway Station
Chongqing North Railway Station
Chongqing North Railway Station

By Private Car or Hotel Shuttle:

If you're staying in a hotel or booked a cruise that offers a private transfer, this can be a convenient way to travel from Chongqing North Railway Station to Chaotianmen Dock.

  • Time: Around 20-30 minutes.
  • Cost: Prices vary depending on the service, but typically between ¥100-150 (about $15-22 USD).

This is the most comfortable and hassle-free option if you’re carrying luggage or prefer convenience.

Contact us if you'd like further details on any of these options or if you'd like help with planning your route!

By Metro:

  • Time: About 25-30 minutes.
  • Cost: Around ¥3-5 (about $0.50-1 USD).

This is a cost-effective option, though the transfer between metro lines might be slightly inconvenient if you’re carrying luggage.

Step 1: From Chongqing North Railway Station, take Chongqing Metro Line 10 (Blue Line) from Chongqing North Railway Station South Square Station (重庆北站南广场站) to Qixinggang Station (七星岗站).

Step 2: Take Chongqing Metro Line 1 (Red Line) from Qixinggang Station (七星岗站) to Chaotianmen Station (朝天门站), which is the station closest to the dock.

Step 3: After exiting at Chaotianmen Station, you need to walk for about 5-10 minute to Chaotianmen Dock.

Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing

Get to Chaotianmen Dock from Chongqing West Railway Station

Chongqing West Railway Station (重庆西站) is 20 kilometers west away from Chaotianmen Dock. It is well connected to major cities in China such as Xi’an, Guangzhou, Kunming, Guiyang.

To get from Chongqing West Railway Station (重庆西站) to Chaotianmen Dock, here are the most common transportation options:

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (DiDi):

  • Time: Approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Cost: Around ¥30-50 (about $5-7 USD).

Once you exit Chongqing West Railway Station, you can easily find taxis at the station's taxi stand. Alternatively, use a ride-hailing app like DiDi and set Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头) as your destination.

This is the most direct and comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or want to avoid transfers.

Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing

By Private Car or Hotel Shuttle:

  • Time: About 25-35 minutes.
  • Cost: Private transfers typically cost between ¥100-150 (about $15-22 USD), depending on the service.

If you’re staying at a hotel or have pre-arranged a cruise with a private transfer, this is the most comfortable and direct option. It saves you time and effort, especially if you have luggage.

Contact us if you need further help with the details or if you’d like assistance with any bookings!

Related Article:Chongqing Train Stations to Chaotianmen Dock | Car, Metro or Taxi to Chaotianmen Dock

By Metro:

  • Time: Approximately 35-45 minutes.
  • Cost: Around ¥5-8 (about $0.70-1.10 USD).

Step 1: From Chongqing West Railway Station, take Chongqing Metro Line 5 (Light Blue Line) to Shiqiaopu Station (石桥铺站)

Step 2: Take Chongqing Metro Line 1 (Red Line) from Shiqiaopu Station (石桥铺站) to Chaotianmen Station (朝天门站)

Step 3: After exiting at Chaotianmen Station, it’s about a 5-10 minute walk to Chaotianmen Dock.

The metro is affordable and relatively easy, but requires a transfer between two lines. It's a good option if you're traveling with lighter luggage.

Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing

Boarding Access at Chaotianmen Dock

Chaotianmen Dock, a major embarkation point for Yangtze River Cruises in Chongqing, provides convenient and efficient boarding access for travelers.

Check-in Process:

  • Upon arrival, proceed to the designated check-in counter where you’ll present your cruise ticket and travel documents.
  • Staff will guide you through the boarding process, including checking your documents and directing you to the waiting area if necessary.

Boarding Gate:

  • After check-in, you'll be escorted to the boarding gate. Keep an eye out for announcements and signs to ensure you’re at the correct gate for your ship.
  • Boarding typically starts in the afternoon (usually between 4 PM and 8 PM), so arrive on time to avoid any last-minute stress.

Luggage Handling:

  • If available, drop off your luggage at the designated area so the Bang Bang Porters can deliver it to your cruise ship once onboard.
  • For passengers traveling in luxury cabins or suites, your luggage will be delivered directly to your room for added convenience.

Onboard Orientation:

  • Upon boarding, you’ll attend a safety briefing and a brief ship orientation, which includes essential information about emergency procedures, ship amenities, and the cruise itinerary.

Chaotianmen Dock is well-equipped to handle cruise passengers smoothly, ensuring that your journey begins with ease and convenience.

Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing

Tips When Heading to Chaotianmen Dock

  1. Taxis are the most convenient way to reach Chaotianmen Dock, especially for those with luggage. Be sure to specify your dock number to the driver, as there are 12 docks at Chaotianmen, and different Yangtze River cruise ships dock at different locations. If you're unsure of your dock number, you can contact your sales consultant for assistance.
  2. While the subway can take you directly to Chaotianmen Station, there is still a relatively complicated underground and surface passage that you'll need to navigate to reach the correct boarding dock. This may cause you to lose your way or walk extra distance, which can be inconvenient, particularly for travelers with a lot of luggage.
  3. If you’ve booked a Chongqing Day Tour or other Chongqing tour packages with Asia Odyssey Travel before your cruise, our driver and guide will ensure you are dropped off at the correct boarding dock at the scheduled time, making your journey hassle-free.

How to Plan a Chongqing Tour Before Getting to Chaotianmen Dock

If you are short on time with only half a day to spare, you can still explore key highlights near Chaotianmen Dock. Experience the iconic night view of Chongqing at Hongya Cave (洪崖洞), witness the meeting point of the Turbid Yangtze River and Clear Jialing River at Chaotianmen Square (朝天门广场), take a ride on the aerial Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道), and savor the picturesque scenery along both riverbanks.

For a full day of exploration, venture a bit farther. Visit Liziba Station to witness the spectacle of the light rail passing through a building, delve into the history and culture of the Three Gorges region at the Three Gorges Museum, or immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Chongqing at Ciqikou Ancient Town.

With two or more days at your disposal, you can deeply immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the city's diverse attractions. Explore the Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site featuring exquisite Buddhist sculptures, or journey to Wulong, another UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, for further exploration and discovery.

Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing
Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing

Enjoy Your Yangtze River Cruise Journey with Asia Odyssey Travel

Start a captivating voyage through the heart of China with Asia Odyssey Travel. Our expert team specializes in crafting unforgettable Yangtze River cruise experiences, ensuring you witness the breathtaking scenery, delve into rich history, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this majestic waterway.

Asia Odyssey Travel Benefits for Your Journey:

Tour Packages: Yangtze River Tours, Beijing Yangtze Tours, Shanghai Yangtze Tours, China Cruise Tours

Our Yangtze Cruise Partners & Ships: Century Cruises, Victoria Cruises, Changjiang Cruises, Yangtze Gold Cruises, 20+Yangtze River Cruise Ships

How to Chosse a Ship: Family-friendly, Luxury, Largest, Best-value, New, Cheap

Cruise Lines: Yichang to Chongqing, Chongqing to Yichang, Chongqing to Shanghai, Upsteam or Downstream

Attractions: Yangtze River Attractions, Three Gorges, Three Gorges Dam

Travel Guide: Yangtze River Facts, How to Plan, Itinerary, Cost, How to Book, Best Time to Visit, Reviews

Transportation: Cruise Ports, Chaotianmen Dock, Chongqing Airport, Chongqing Train Stations, Yichang Airport, Yichang East Station

Let Asia Odyssey Travel guide you through the enchanting world of Yangtze River cruising. Create lasting memories as you explore this iconic waterway and uncover the hidden gems of China.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

Ask Us for More Information

icon
icon
loadingData in submission...
Why with Asia Odyssey Travel
  • icon
    Find Inspiration and ​Information for Your Next Trip
  • icon
    Get a Local Travel Consultant to ​Plan Your Personalized Trip
  • icon
    Book & Travel Securely with ​Our Money-back Guarantee
  • icon
    24/7 Customer Support to ​Help Every Traveler
  • icon
    Offering 500+ Customized ​Trips in China & Asia
Customize Your Own China Trip
user
email
phone
loadingData in submission...
close
travel guide
china group tours 2025
close
Contact Us
top