ChongqingTransportation Guide

Chongqing’s light rail and subway aren’t just transportation—they’re attractions in their own right!Line 2 runs along the Jialing River and offers the most beautiful scenery (including the spectacular sight of the train passing through a building at Liziba Station). Line 1 goes to Xiaoshizi (Jiefangbei/Hongyadong/Yangtze River Cable Car) and Ciqikou. Line 6 goes to Xiaoshizi and the Grand Theater. Get the “Chongqing Transit Card” via Alipay or WeChat to enjoy a 10% discount. Navigation apps may fail—a 500-meter walk could involve climbing 20 stories vertically, so be sure to wear sneakers.

Base fare: 10 yuan (3 km). Chongqing’s yellow “Tuoche” taxis are the city’s calling card. Using Didi is more reliable than hailing a cab on the street. Short trips within the city cost 15–25 yuan; a ride to Jiangbei Airport costs 60–80 yuan (Line 3 of the light rail is a direct and cheaper option). Most hot pot restaurants recommended by taxi drivers offer kickbacks—don’t trust them!

Jiangbei International Airport (CKG): Take Light Rail Line 3 directly to the city center (about 50 minutes, 7 yuan); Line 10 is also an option. A taxi ride costs about 60–80 yuan (about 40 minutes). The airport is about 30 kilometers from the city center; allow 1.5 hours for the trip.

Chongqing has two high-speed rail stations. Chongqing North Station: serves the Yu-Wan, Yu-Li, and Cheng-Yu high-speed rail lines; takes 30 minutes to reach the city center via Lines 3 and 10, and is closer to the city center. Chongqing West Station: serves the Yu-Gui and Yu-Kun high-speed rail lines; takes 40 minutes to reach the city center via Line 5. The moment you step out of the high-speed rail station, you’re immersed in the 8D magic—taking a taxi might involve navigating through several “layers.”