Chongqing (Chongqingbei Rail Stn.)

It is critical for passengers to understand the station's structure: it is divided into the North Square and the South Square. These two parts function almost as separate terminals and are located at a significant distance from each other. Carefully check your ticket: it indicates from which square your train departs. Public transport operates between the squares, but walking can take a considerable amount of time.

• Official Website: www.12306.cn (China's unified railway portal)
• Inquiry Phone: +86 12306 (National hotline, English support available)
• Address: Kunlun Avenue, Yubei District, Chongqing, China
• Opening Hours: 24 hours (ticket offices and waiting halls may have technical breaks during the night)
• Luggage Storage: Available at both squares (North and South Squares), look for Left Luggage signs
• Accessibility: The station is equipped with elevators, escalators, and dedicated washrooms for passengers with reduced mobility; escort services are available upon prior request.

Reaching Chongqingbei station is easy via several convenient methods, thanks to the city's developed transport system.

Metro (CRT): This is the most reliable option to avoid traffic. The station is served by Lines 3, 4, 10 and the Loop Line.
Please note: The metro stations Chongqing North Station South Square and Chongqing North Station North Square are different stops. Ensure you know exactly which one you need by checking your ticket.

Taxi: A trip from the city centre (Jiefangbei district) will take about 20–30 minutes without traffic and cost approximately 30–40 RMB. Drop-off zones are available at each terminal.

Buses: Numerous city routes connect the station with various districts, but for tourists with luggage, this may be a less comfortable option due to the city's hilly terrain.

Chongqingbei station offers a full range of services for a comfortable wait. There are spacious waiting halls, designated by train numbers, where you can always find a seat.

Key amenities include:

• Ticket Offices and Machines: For international tourists, there are special windows (Ticket Window) with English-speaking staff for purchasing and exchanging tickets using a passport.
• Hot Water Dispensers: Free hot water is available in the waiting halls — essential for preparing tea or instant noodles while travelling.
• Connectivity and Charging: The area has Wi-Fi (a Chinese mobile number is often required for registration) and charging stations for mobile devices (sometimes paid).
• Sanitary Zones: Clean washrooms (predominantly squatting type) and mother-and-child rooms are available.

It is impossible to stay hungry at Chongqingbei station. Inside the building, especially on the mezzanine and in the waiting areas, there is a food court with a wide selection of dishes.

Quick Bites: Well-known international chains such as KFC, McDonald's, and Starbucks are present here, where you can grab familiar food and coffee. The average bill is around 30–50 RMB.

Local Flavour: Be sure to try the famous Chongqing noodles (Chongqing Xiaomian) at one of the local eateries within the station. It is quick, filling, and very spicy. Fast food restaurants serving rice and meat sets are also popular.

If you have time, there are also many small cafes and shops selling travel snacks on the squares in front of the station.

The history of Chongqingbei station reflects the rapid development of China's railway network. It opened in October 2006 and initially served only regular trains via the South Square.

With the arrival of the high-speed rail (CRH) era, the need for expansion arose. In 2015, the North Square was launched, becoming the main terminal for high-speed trains. This transformed the station into a gigantic transport hub.

In recent years, the station has undergone several stages of reconstruction, including a major renovation of the South Square in 2021–2023 to improve integration with the metro and enhance passenger comfort. Today, it connects Chongqing with Chengdu, Beijing, Shanghai, and other major metropolises.

To ensure your journey goes smoothly, follow these tips when departing from Chongqingbei station:

• Arrive Early: It is recommended to arrive at the station 1.5–2 hours before departure. Security checks and identity verification procedures may take time due to large crowds.
• Passport Control: International tourists must go through manual ticket checks (Manual Lane), as automatic gates often only accept Chinese ID cards.
• Navigation: The most important thing is not to confuse the North and South Squares. If you make a mistake, use the metro (Line 10) or the special shuttle to transfer to the correct side.
• Luggage: Carrying knives, flammable sprays, and alcohol is prohibited. Be prepared for all bags to be scanned at the entrance.