Chongqing Chongqing, China Travel Guide
The Metro (Chongqing Rail Transit - CRT) forms the backbone of Chongqing's public transport. It includes conventional subway lines, elevated monorail lines (like Line 2, famous for passing directly through a residential building at Liziba Station), and an unique aerial tramway (the Yangtze River Cableway, a tourist attraction and practical transport). The underground railway carries on grow, reaching more areas.
A comprehensive system of buses complements the metro, reaching areas not directly covered by rail lines. Bus routes can be more complex for non-Mandarin speakers without a mapping app. Clear and detailed metro route maps are available at all stations, online, and within navigation apps, usually bilingual (Chinese and The english language).
Jiaochangkou (Lines 1 & 2), Lianglukou (Lines 1 & 3), and Hongtudi (Lines 6 & 10) are metro interchange stations.
Metro lines generally operate starting AT 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM with high frequency (every 3-5 minutes during peak hours).
Newer metro stations have elevators/escalators. Older depots and buses can be challenging for mobility needs due to stairs.
Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay for easy scanning.
Download Baidu Maps navigation offline packages in advance of your trip.
A few Chinese phrases assist communication.
Travel during off-peak times for cheaper crowded metros.
Taxis and ride-sharing services give convenient, door-to-door transportation options in Chongqing, specifically useful when carrying luggage or after a long day of sightseeing. Licensed taxis are typically yellow or blue, with a roof sign and meter. You can hail them on the street, but booking through ride-hailing apps is increasingly common and often more user-friendly.
Not feasible for foreign tourists; an International Driving Permit is not recognized. A Chinese driving a permit is necessary.
Not commonly available or recommended for tourists due to strict local regulations and chaotic traffic.
Limited use due to Chongqing's hilly terrain, making city cycling challenging and impractical for most.
While hilly, many areas of Chongqing are highly walkable, especially within specific districts or along designated paths. These areas include Jiefangbei Central Business District, the multi-layered Hongyadong complex, Ciqikou Ancient Town with its narrow lanes, E'ling Park for panoramic city views, and riverside parks along the Jialing and Yangtze rivers for leisurely strolls.
Always wear comfortable, Supportive walking shoes for Chongqing's a lot of stairs and inclines.
Wear good shoes!
Major highways, tunnels, and elevated expressways are not suitable for pedestrians or cyclists.
Avoid restricted zones.
Exercise caution when crossing roads, even at designated crosswalks, as traffic may not always yield.
Stay aware!
Chongqing's unique geography calls for creative travel methods. Embrace its efficient metro, convenient ride-sharing, and iconic cable car. Decide on your routes with a good mapping app and enjoy the multi-dimensional city views from various transport options.
Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring on foot. This makes for a great travel experience.
