how to travel around chongqing

Here’s a guide on how to travel around Chongqing, China’s mountainous megacity, with practical tips and transportation options:

1. Public Transportation

Metro (Subway)

• Coverage: Chongqing’s metro system is the most efficient way to navigate the city, with lines connecting major districts, tourist spots, and transportation hubs.
• Key Lines:
  • Line 2: Passes through the iconic Liziba Station (train “piercing” a building) and connects downtown to Jiefangbei.
  • Line 3: Links the airport, Chongqing North Railway Station, and attractions like Eling Park.
  • Line 6: Crosses the Yangtze River via the Caiyuanba Bridge.
• Tickets: Use single-journey tokens, rechargeable metro cards, or scan QR codes via apps like Alipay/WeChat Pay (enable “Chongqing Metro” in the app).
• Hours: Operates from ~6:30 AM to 10:30 PM (varies by line).

Buses

• Affordable but Complex: Buses cover areas not reached by the metro, but routes can be confusing for non-Chinese speakers.
• Payment: Cash (¥1–5 RMB) or scan QR codes via Alipay/WeChat.
• Tip: Use apps like Baidu Maps or Amap (in Chinese) to check real-time routes.

2. Taxis & Ride-Hailing

• Taxis:
  • Fare: Metered, starting at ¥10 RMB for the first 3 km.
  • Language Barrier: Show drivers your destination’s Chinese name or a map pin.
  • Color Codes: Yellow taxis (citywide) vs. blue taxis (specific districts).
• Ride-Hailing:
  • Use Didi Chuxing (China’s Uber) with an international number. Set up Alipay/WeChat Pay for seamless payment.

3. Walking

• Hilly Terrain: Chongqing is nicknamed the “3D City” due to its steep slopes and staircases. Wear comfortable shoes!
• Pedestrian Paths: Explore areas like Hongya Cave, Ciqikou Ancient Town, or Jiefangbei CBD on foot for an immersive experience.
• Navigation: Use offline maps (Google Maps has limited functionality; Amap/Baidu Maps work best).

4. Unique Local Transport

Yangtze River Cableway

• Iconic Experience: Ride the cable car over the Yangtze River for stunning views (¥20–30 RMB).
• Location: Starts near Xinhua Road Station (Line 1).

Chaotianmen Ferries

• River Cruises: Take a ferry or evening sightseeing cruise to see the city’s skyline and bridges lit up at night.
• Ticket: ¥5–150 RMB (depending on cruise type).

Light Rail (Monorail)

• Line 2 & 3: These elevated lines offer scenic views of mountains and rivers. Don’t miss the “train-in-a-building” at Liziba Station.

5. Bike Rentals & E-Scooters

• Shared Bikes: Apps like Meituan Bike or HelloBike offer short-term rentals. Note: Chongqing’s hills make cycling challenging!
• E-Scooters: Available in flat areas like Nan’an District. Scan QR codes to unlock.

6. Day Trips & Regional Travel

• To Dazu Rock Carvings: Take a bus from Chenjiaping Bus Station (2 hours, ¥50 RMB).
• To Wulong Karst Park: Book a tour or take a bus from Chongqing Long-Distance Bus Station (3 hours).
• High-Speed Trains: From Chongqing North Station, reach Chengdu (2 hours) or Xi’an (5 hours).

Practical Tips

1. Avoid Rush Hour: Traffic jams are common from 7:30–9:30 AM and 5–7 PM.
2. Cash & Mobile Pay: Carry small bills for buses/taxis, but most places accept Alipay/WeChat.
3. Ask Locals: Younger people often speak basic English. Learn phrases like “请问地铁站在哪里?” (Qǐngwèn dìtiě zhàn zài nǎlǐ? – “Where is the metro station?”).
4. Stay Charged: Portable chargers are lifesavers—Chongqing’s terrain drains phone batteries fast!

Top Scenic Routes

• Metro Line 2: From Jiefangbei to Liziba Station.
• Bus 503: Crosses the Yangtze River Bridge for panoramic views.
• Night Cruise: Depart from Chaotianmen Pier.

Chongqing’s mix of modern transport and mountain charm makes every journey an adventure. Enjoy the spicy food, misty vistas, and endless stairs!