On January 1, 2026, the entire 153-kilometer waterway of the Chongqing section of the Jialing River officially commenced nighttime navigation, helping vessels improve transit efficiency and reduce transportation costs.
The Chongqing section of the Jialing River flows through Hechuan, Beibei, Shapingba, Liangjiang New Area, Yuzhong, and other areas, converging with the Yangtze River at Chaotianmen. It is a crucial waterway connecting the Sichuan-Chongqing region to the Yangtze River.
Recently, with the successful completion of the optimization of navigation aid facilities and practical vessel seaworthiness trials on the 85-kilometer waterway in the Hechuan section of the Jialing River, combined with the 68-kilometer section downstream from Caojie which had already opened for night navigation by the end of 2006, the entire 153-kilometer waterway of the Chongqing section of the Jialing River is now fully equipped for nighttime navigation.
According to the seaworthiness trial results, the daily sailing time for vessels can be extended from the original approximately 12 hours to around 20 hours. The full-journey sailing time for the 153-kilometer waterway in the Chongqing section of the Jialing River is expected to be shortened from about 2 days to 1 day.
The captain of the «Chuanhang 777,» who regularly navigates the Sichuan-Chongqing section of the Jialing River transporting bean products and construction materials between Chongqing and Guangyuan, Sichuan, stated that the opening of nighttime navigation will help reduce costs and increase efficiency in vessel transportation, benefiting both ship operators and cargo owners.
A relevant official from the Chongqing Municipal Transportation Commission stated that the full opening of nighttime navigation on the Chongqing section of the Jialing River can enhance the stability and timeliness of energy transportation, such as «moving coal from north to south,» and also aids in the outbound shipment of products like automobiles and equipment from Chongqing.
Moving forward, Chongqing will continue to advance the intelligent construction of waterways and the remediation of hazardous shoals, striving to develop the Jialing River into a safer, more efficient, and smoother «golden waterway.»
Jialing River
The Jialing River is a major tributary of the Yangtze River, flowing through the Sichuan Basin in southwestern China. Historically, it has been a vital transportation and trade route for centuries, playing a significant role in the development of the Ba and Shu cultures. Today, it is notable for its scenic gorges and the modern city of Chongqing, which sits at its confluence with the Yangtze.
Chongqing section of the Jialing River
The Chongqing section of the Jialing River is a vital waterway where the Jialing River flows into the Yangtze River at the city’s iconic Chaotianmen dock. Historically, it has served as a crucial transportation and trade route for centuries, shaping Chongqing’s development as a major inland port. Today, its banks are lined with the city’s dramatic modern skyline, creating a striking contrast between its historical role and its present-day urban setting.
Hechuan
Hechiao is a district of Chongqing, China, historically significant as the site where the Jialing, Qu, and Fu Rivers converge. It is best known for the ancient Diaoyu Fortress, a stronghold that withstood a prolonged Mongol siege during the 13th century. This strategic location has made it an important military and cultural site in Chinese history.
Beibei
Beibei is a district of Chongqing, China, located at the scenic confluence of the Jialing and Yangtze Rivers. Historically, it was a separate city known for its educational institutions and as a summer retreat due to its cooler climate and lush surroundings. Today, it is a key urban area within Chongqing, preserving historical sites like the former wartime capital buildings and the lush Beibei Park.
Shapingba
Shapingba is a major district in Chongqing, China, historically known as an important cultural and educational center. Its name, meaning «Sandy Flat Dam,» originates from its geographical formation along the Jialing River, and it became famous in the 20th century for its pivotal role during the Second Sino-Japanese War as a site for key wartime institutions and industries. Today, it is a vibrant urban area renowned for its universities, shopping districts, and as a hub of modern development.
Liangjiang New Area
Liangjiang New Area is a state-level development zone established in 2010 in Chongqing, China, as part of a national strategy to boost economic growth in the western region. It serves as a major hub for advanced manufacturing, logistics, and finance, built upon the area’s historical role as a transportation and industrial center along the Yangtze River.
Yuzhong
Yuzhong is the central urban district of Chongqing, China, serving as the city’s historical, political, and commercial core. Historically, it was the site of the ancient Ba-Yu city and later became the capital of the Republic of China during WWII. Today, it is a bustling area known for landmarks like the Liberation Monument and its role as a major transportation and business hub.
Chaotianmen
Chaotianmen is a historic gate and major public square located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers in Chongqing, China. Its name, meaning «Gate Facing Heaven,» dates back to its original construction in 314 BC when it served as the ceremonial entrance for receiving imperial edicts. Today, it is a bustling transportation hub and popular tourist viewpoint offering dramatic vistas of the city’s rivers and skyline.
