How to get to Chongqing

When planning a trip to Chongqing, you are embarking on a journey to one of the most populous and impressive metropolises in China, situated in a picturesque region at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. This "Mountain City" is open to travellers, and figuring out how to get to Chongqing is straightforward: you can arrive by plane, high-speed train, bus, or car. A developed transport network connects the city with the rest of the world, making the journey comfortable and accessible for every tourist.

For air travel, the main point of arrival is Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG). This is one of the region's most vital aviation hubs, connecting Chongqing with the majority of the country's major cities and many international destinations.

The airport is located approximately 20 kilometres north of the metropolis's central area. Transport accessibility here is excellent: the terminals are integrated into the city's metro system, allowing tourists to reach major attractions and hotels quickly and without traffic congestion. Additionally, taxis and comfortable shuttle buses are always available for travellers.

Travelling by train is one of the most popular and convenient ways to get to Chongqing. The city is a powerful railway hub connecting the southwestern provinces with the rest of China. Due to the complex mountainous terrain, the approach to the metropolis by rail is often accompanied by scenic views, and the route itself passes through numerous tunnels and over high bridges.

The metropolis is served by several large modern stations, with Chongqing North and Chongqing West being the key terminals. This is where the majority of high-speed trains (categories G and D) arrive from Chengdu, Xi'an, Guiyang, Beijing, and other major centres. The high-speed rail network allows you to get here quickly and with maximum comfort: for example, the journey from neighbouring Chengdu takes only about 1.5–2 hours.

Upon arriving at the station, tourists can easily continue their journey: railway terminals are closely integrated with the city's metro system and bus routes. This ensures excellent transport accessibility and allows you to reach your hotel or attractions effortlessly immediately after stepping off the train.

Bus services connect the "Mountain City" with its picturesque surroundings and neighbouring regions, allowing travellers to enjoy views of the Sichuan landscapes right from the window. A popular tourist route from Wulong, famous for its karst nature reserves, covers a distance of about 170 kilometres in approximately 2.5–3 hours via high-quality expressways.

Regular services are also established from the city of Neijiang, from where the trip takes about 2 hours, and from the Dazu district, known for its ancient rock carvings. Intercity buses in China are generally noted for their comfort and punctuality, arriving at large bus terminals that are integrated with the urban metro system.

Travelling by car to Chongqing allows you to appreciate the scale of the local road network with its impressive multi-level overpasses and tunnels. A short drive from the Dadukou district takes just 30–40 minutes, covering a distance of about 20 kilometres, while the journey from the city of Neijiang requires about 2–2.5 hours to cover 170 kilometres on a quality high-speed highway.

For lovers of natural landscapes, the route from Wulong will be a true discovery: the road, 180 kilometres long, takes approximately 3 hours and passes through picturesque mountain ranges. You can also arrive by taxi, however, for such intercity trips, the cost can vary from 500 to 800 RMB, so many travellers prefer to book a transfer in advance or use ride-hailing apps popular in China.

Preparing for a trip to Chongqing requires attention to detail, as this metropolis is distinguished by its unique mountainous terrain and specific climate. To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled a list of the most important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Footwear. Chongqing is often called the "Mountain City," so there are many stairs and steep ascents. The most important thing is to bring extremely comfortable, broken-in shoes for long walks. The climate here is humid: summers are hot and muggy (choose light, breathable natural fabrics), while winters are damp and cool (you will need a waterproof jacket and warm clothes, as central heating is often absent).
2. Transport. Due to the complex terrain and frequent traffic jams, the metro and monorail are the fastest ways to get around. Taxis are inexpensive, but drivers rarely speak English. Note that bicycles are practically not used here due to the hilly landscape.
3. Finances. In China, mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are used almost everywhere and can now be linked to international cards. Cash is not accepted everywhere, and international plastic cards work only in large hotels and expensive restaurants. It is best to set up payment apps on your smartphone in advance.
4. Health and Safety. Chongqing is the home of the famous spicy hotpot. If you are not accustomed to very spicy food, please be cautious and ask for the "non-spicy" option (though even this may be slightly pungent). It is recommended to carry digestion aids. The city is safe, but it is advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.
5. Communication. The English language is not widely spoken here. Be sure to download an offline translator to your phone with voice input and photo translation functions. It is also useful to have a hotel card with the name and address in Chinese to show to taxi drivers.
6. Local Etiquette. In conversation, locals may seem loud and emotional — this is a feature of the local temperament, not aggression. Tipping is not customary. Greetings are usually limited to a nod or a slight bow; handshakes are used less frequently.
7. What to Avoid. Do not rely solely on online maps for walking: due to the multi-level nature of the city, GPS often makes mistakes, showing a straight route where there may actually be a cliff or a wall. Navigate using signs and metro stations.
8. Navigating the "8D City". Remember Chongqing's unique feature: the entrance to a building might be on the first floor, while the exit to another street is on the tenth. Always check which level you are on, and do not be surprised if an elevator takes you to a city square located on the roof of another building.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday difficulties and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing futuristic city. Chongqing is ready to surprise you at every step; the main thing is to be ready for its dynamic rhythm and unusual geography.