A thrilling blend of history, engineering, and urban spectacle, the Chongqing Yangtze River Cableway offers visitors a jaw-dropping aerial journey across one of Asia’s mightiest rivers. Dubbed the “First Aerial Corridor Over the Yangtze,” this iconic attraction isn’t just a ride—it’s a 4-minute plunge into the heart of Chongqing’s past and present.
From Transit Tool to Cultural Icon
Built in 1987 to connect Chongqing’s then-isolated districts, the cableway was China’s first cross-river passenger ropeway and a lifeline for commuters.
Its orange cabins once ferried thousands daily, but today, it’s a AAAA-rated tourist site and a living symbol of the city’s transformation from industrial hub to futuristic marvel. Fun fact: The cableway’s design by engineer Shi Fengqiang used only domestically made parts except for German-made support cables.
Why It’s Unmissable
1.Panoramic Cityscapes:
Glide 1166 meters (3,825 ft) between Yuzhong District (north) and Nan’an District (south) at 6 m/s, peering down at the Yangtze’s churning waters and Chongqing’s vertigo-inducing skyline. By night, the cabins glow like fireflies against the city’s neon-lit “8D” terrain.
2.Cinematic Fame:
Featured in films like Crazy Stone and I Belonged to You, the cableway embodies Chongqing’s cinematic allure. Fans recreate scenes mid-air or snap photos at the viral “bite the cable car” spot near Longmenhao Old Street.
3.Time Capsule Vibes:
The retro-styled cabins (revamped in 2019) retain 1980s charm with enlarged windows for better views. Look for exhibits like the original Jialing River Cableway relics displayed at the north station.
Smart Travel Tips
- Best Times: Sunset (18:00–19:30) for golden-hour photography, or post-21:00 to avoid crowds. Avoid rainy days—fog can obscure views.
- Tickets: Single ride **¥20**, round trip **¥30** (discounts with local transit cards). Book via Ctrip or the official WeChat account to skip queues.
- Nearby Eats: After your ride, head to Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street for fiery hotpot or Nanbin Road for river-view dining.
Hidden Gems & Stories
- Cold War Relics: Beneath the north station lie Cold War-era bunkers, once part of Chongqing’s defense network.
- Celebrity Spotting: In 2025, Olympic champions Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha famously rode the cableway, sparking a social media frenzy.
- Eco-Design: The cabins’ anti-sway technology withstands winds up to 15 m/s (6级风力), ensuring smooth rides even on blustery days
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