Artists' Village

» Chongqing, Si Chuan

Artists' Village Overview & Map Weather Transportation Information

Located in Ciqikou Old Town, Chongqing, the Artists' Village (Painters' Village) is one of the three notable attractions here. Seventeen state-sponsored artists - some of them renowned - live in this complex of cottages overlooking the Jialing River. This sight is a favorite with tour groups who roll in for a quick buying frenzy before or after their Three Gorges tour.

What is "Ciqikou Old Town"

With a history of more than 1,800 years, Ciqikou Old Town has some typical traditional and cultural characteristics featured in mountainous areas, where mountains and rivers cross with each other, and the buildings are in a picturesque disorder. It was Chongqing's old harbor and was once the home of many of Chongqing's rich merchants, where you can still see lots of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. The three notable attractions of the village are the tea bars, the Artists' Village and the Shu Embroidery workshops.

Artists in the Village

These state-sponsored artists came from all over China and included members of minority nationalities. The colony dates from the days when the function of art was to serve the state. They are mostly elderly now and enjoy what, for China, are excellent conditions. They have their own studios and produce an impressive range of work. Since China embarked on economic reforms, however, they have had to become commercial, since the government no longer buys all their work.

Amazing Painting work

The Artists' Village, where you may see the work of the local artists will be of great interest. It has been said that the more beautiful a place may be, the more artists it will attract. You are sure to be amazed by the quality of the work on show and in progress as the many artists record the local scenes with skill and dedication. With so many artists working in Ciqikou Old Town, you will be spoiled for choice when seeking a souvenir of your visit.

Strolling around

Seventeen state-sponsored artists - some of them renowned - live in this complex of cottages overlooking the Jialing River. This sight is a favorite with tour groups who roll in for a quick buying frenzy before or after their Three Gorges tour. Even if you're not prepared to spend lots of money, the vine-covered studios and residences, connected by stone walkways and surrounded by small gardens, provide a more interesting respite from the traffic than just another city park. Each artist has a small studio, and visitors roam the grounds from one to the next.

Attractions around » Chongqing, Si Chuan

Natural Scene

• Qutang Gorge
• Wu Gorge
• Eling Park
• Port Chaotianmen
• Mt. Geleshan

Historical Site

• Kuimen
• Baidicheng
• Fengdu
• Dazu Rock Carvings
• Shibaozhai Temple
• Chongqing People's Assembly Hall
• Ciqikou Old Town

Cultural Site

• Eling Park
• Chongqing Zoo
• Chongqing Three Gorges Museum
• Wanzhou
• Artists' Village

Artists' Village Highlights

Arts Community in Great China

• 798 Art Zone
• Songzhuang Art Community
• Artists' Village

Artists' Village FAQ & Travelers's Tips

  Weather

1. Is Chongqing's weather very hot? What to notice?

  Shopping

1. What sourvenirs should I buy and where?

  Travel

1. Can I tour around Chonqing by bike?

  Customs

1. Could I get to know something about minority cultures in Chongqing?

  Other Hints

1. Notice this if you tend to drink beer in a bar
2. Emergency numbers
3. Mind this customs rule

• Is Chongqing's weather very hot? What to notice?

  Chongqing is located in the transition area between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Middle-lower Yangtze Plain. Which is famous for its hot summers and it is known as one of 'the three furnace cities'. The other two are Nanjing and Wuhan. Bring light clothing such as T-shirts, shorts and sandals if you come in summer. Also, remember to bring your umbrella, sunglasses, and suntan lotion to avoid the heat of the 'burning furnace'. The best season to visit Chongqing is in spring, autumn and winter.

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• Could i get to know something about minority cultures in Chongqing?

  Chongqing is a multi-cultural city, with about 23 distinct minority cultures. The Tujia and the Miao are the largest two minorities in Chongqing and mainly inhabit the Qianjiang Development District and the Fuling District. Every January 3 to 15 of the lunar calendar, Tujia people hold grand activities of worship, praying and dancing. The Miao people express themselves through singing.

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• Can i tour around Chonqing by bike?

  The bike is the worst choice for people who understand the structure of the mountain city. First timers to Chongqing should be warned it is very easy to get lost. The bus system and monorail are advised as the best forms of transportation.

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• What sourvenirs should I buy and where?

  The local "Tan Mu Jiang" (Carpenter Tan) carpentry shop is worth a visit for its fine wood artwares
  

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• Notice this if you tend to drink beer in a bar

  There are many bars in Chongqing, but most are underpopulated. Several branches of the Newcastle Arms offer the closest thing to proper beer, but be sure they get your beer from the pump and not the slop tray.

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• Emergency numbers

  • Ambulance: 120
    
  • Emergencies: 110
    
  • Fire: 119
    
  • Tel No. Enquiry: 114
    
  • Police: 110



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• Mind this customs rule

  Customs rules require an accounting of all valuables including watches, jewellery, cameras and currency that you are taking in. A copy of this is surrendered on departure and anything missing may well be treated as imported and duty required accordingly. Therefore make sure you obtain a police report for any goods stolen during your stay.
  Recorded video-tapes must be declared and may be viewed by the Authorities on arrival.

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