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Ask a QuestionChongqing is one of China’s most unusual and exciting cities to explore. Built on steep mountains at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, it is often called a “3D city” because roads, buildings, and transport systems are stacked on multiple levels. For first-time visitors, getting around can feel confusing at the beginning—but once you understand the system, Chongqing is actually one of the most efficient cities in China for tourism travel.
This guide explains in a simple and practical way how to travel around Chongqing using metro, monorail, taxis, walking routes, and other transport options.
The fastest, most reliable, and tourist-friendly way to travel in Chongqing is the metro system, officially called the Chongqing Rail Transit (CRT).
Chongqing Rail Transit is modern, clean, and surprisingly scenic, especially when trains cross rivers or climb steep hills.
Why the metro is best for tourists
Key metro lines for sightseeing
Line 1
Connects: Shapingba – Daping – Jiaochangkou – Ciqikou Ancient Town area
Best for: Ciqikou Ancient Town and old city exploration
Line 2
Famous for: Liziba Station (train passing through a building)
Runs through: central districts along the river
Best for: photography and city landmarks
Line 3
Connects airport and southern districts
Useful for: airport transfers and long-distance travel across the city
How to use the metro
Use QR code via Alipay or WeChat Pay
Or buy tickets at machines (English available)
Follow color-coded signs inside stations
💡 Tip: Metro stations in Chongqing can have multiple exits at different heights. Always check the exit number carefully before leaving.
One of Chongqing’s most iconic transport experiences is the monorail system, especially Line 2, which has become a global internet-famous attraction.
The highlight is Liziba Station, where the train literally passes through a residential building.
Liziba Station
Why it’s special
Unique “train-through-building” architecture
Combines transport and sightseeing
One of the most photographed spots in Chongqing
Best viewing tips
Go to the observation platform near the station
Check train intervals (usually every 5–10 minutes)
Best light: morning or sunset
Even if you are not using Line 2 for transportation, it is worth visiting just for the experience.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available in Chongqing, but they are not always the fastest option due to heavy traffic and complex road layouts.
Taxi basics
Starting fare: around 10–11 RMB (varies slightly)
Easy to find in commercial areas and hotels
Meter-based pricing
Ride-hailing (recommended)
Most tourists prefer using DiDi (China’s Uber equivalent).
Advantages:
App-based booking (English available in Alipay/WeChat versions)
Cashless payment
Easier communication for foreigners
When to use taxis or DiDi
Late-night travel
Short distances between metro stations and hotels
Areas not well connected by metro
💡 Tip: During rush hours (7:30–9:00 and 17:30–19:00), metro is usually faster than car.
Walking in Chongqing is a completely different experience compared to flat cities like Beijing or Shanghai.
Because of the mountainous terrain:
Streets often have steep stairs
Elevation changes can be sudden
Google Maps or Baidu Maps may show confusing vertical routes
Best walking areas
Jiefangbei CBD (city center shopping district)
Hongya Cave scenic area
Riverside promenades
Areas not ideal for walking
Long cross-district distances
Routes with heavy elevation changes
Navigation between different metro exit levels
💡 Tip: Always check whether your destination is on the same “level” before walking. A 10-minute map distance can become a 30-minute uphill climb.
Chongqing is built around two major rivers, so crossing them is part of daily life—and also a great travel experience.
Yangtze River Cableway
One of the most famous attractions in the city, offering panoramic views of the river and skyline.
River ferries
Simple, local boats that cross between riverbanks. They are cheap and offer a slow, scenic view of Chongqing’s skyline.
These transport options are not just practical—they are also part of the sightseeing experience.
Most international visitors arrive via Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport.
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is well connected to the city via metro and express transport.
From the airport to city center
Metro Line 10 → transfer to Line 3 or Line 6
Travel time: 30–50 minutes depending on destination
Taxi: 40–80 RMB depending on traffic
Major railway stations
Chongqing North Railway Station
Main hub for high-speed trains
Direct metro connections
Easy access to most districts
Chongqing Railway Station
Located closer to downtown area
Convenient for city center hotels
💡 Tip: If you are arriving by high-speed train, Chongqing North Station is usually more convenient and better connected.
To move easily around the city, international visitors should use a few essential mobile apps:
Alipay / WeChat Pay
Pay for metro, taxis, food, and attractions
QR code-based transport access
DiDi (via Alipay or WeChat)
Book taxis and private cars
English interface available
Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps)
Most accurate navigation in China
Shows metro exits and walking routes
💡 Tip: Google Maps is not reliable in Chongqing due to local mapping limitations.
Traveling in Chongqing is easy once you understand a few local rules:
1. Use metro as your main transport
It is the fastest way to avoid traffic congestion.
2. Expect vertical movement
You may need to go up or down multiple floors even within a single station.
3. Avoid rush hours when possible
Traffic congestion can significantly slow down taxis and buses.
4. Plan extra time for navigation
Distances are often misleading due to elevation changes.
5. Combine metro + walking + short rides
The best way to explore Chongqing is a combination of all transport methods.
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