The Yangtze River Cableway departs from a terminal near Xinhua Road in Yuzhong District, Chongqing, and carries passengers across the Yangtze River to Nan'an District in a cabin suspended from an aerial ropeway, a mode of river crossing that predates several of the bridges now spanning the same stretch of water. Visitors board at the Yuzhong terminal, ride for 10 to 15 minutes suspended above the river, and can either return immediately or explore the Nan'an side before taking a return cabin back. The ride offers uninterrupted views up and down the Yangtze, including passing river traffic, the surrounding bridges and, closer to the Yuzhong side, the dense high-rise skyline of downtown Chongqing rising directly from the riverbank. A single one-way crossing takes 10 to 15 minutes, and most visitors treat it as a short experience rather than a full attraction, riding across and back within about half an hour to an hour including waiting time. The clearest photo opportunities are from inside the cabin itself looking back at the Yuzhong skyline, and from the terminal platforms at both ends. The crossing is scenic at any time of day, but riding between 5:00 and 7:00PM allows passengers to see the skyline in daylight on one leg and under illumination on the return, capturing both the daytime river panorama and Chongqing's night lighting in a single visit.
| Admission | Adult ¥30 one-way (approx $4.20) · Child Discounted rate for children under 1.2m tall |
|---|---|
| Hours | Mar 1-Nov 30: 8:00AM-10:00PM (7:30AM-10:30PM on statutory holidays); Dec 1-end of Feb: 8:00AM-9:00PM |
| Typical visit | 10-15 minutes each way |
| Best time | 5:00-7:00PM to see both daytime and illuminated night views of the Yangtze crossing |
| Getting there | Yuzhong District terminal near Xinhua Road; Metro Line 1 or 6 to Chaotianmen or Xiaoshizi Station, then a short walk |
| Address | 151 Xinhua Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, China |
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Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for China.
Location
151 Xinhua Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, China
29.5560, 106.5790 View on map
Highlights
- Aerial cableway crossing of the Yangtze River between Yuzhong and Nan'an
- Unobstructed views of downtown Chongqing's riverside skyline
- Historic river-crossing mode predating several nearby bridges
- 10-15 minute one-way rides with frequent departures
- Combined daytime and illuminated night views when timed at dusk
Tips for visiting
- Ride between 5:00 and 7:00PM to see both daylight and illuminated night views of the skyline
- A one-way ticket costs less than a round trip if only crossing once; check current fare options at the terminal
- Peak hours and weekends can mean queues at the terminal, so arrive with some buffer time
- Sit or stand near a window for the clearest photos of the skyline
- Children under 1.2m tall receive a discounted rate
When to visit
Between 5:00 and 7:00PM is best, allowing one crossing in daylight and the return trip under the illuminated night skyline.
Accessibility
The terminal buildings have level boarding platforms, but access can involve stairs or ramps depending on the terminal, so mobility-impaired visitors should check conditions at the specific terminal before riding.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a ride on the Yangtze River Cableway take?
Each one-way crossing takes 10 to 15 minutes; a round trip including waiting time typically takes about half an hour to an hour.
Is the Yangtze River Cableway worth doing with children?
Yes, the short ride and river views are generally enjoyable and safe for children, with a discounted fare for those under 1.2m tall.
Is photography allowed on the cableway?
Yes, photography from inside the cabin and from the terminal platforms is permitted and is one of the main draws of the ride.