Chongqing, a sprawling city known for its steep hills, rapid transit, and unique landscape, offers an extensive public transportation network that can be both convenient and exciting to navigate. From the modern metro system to the scenic cable cars across the Yangtze River, the city provides various ways to explore its vibrant districts and breathtaking views. This guide will take you through Chongqing’s public transportation options, including the metro, buses, cable cars, and escalators, and offer useful tips for both first-time visitors and locals.
Chongqing Metro/Light Rail Guide
Chongqing’s metro system is one of the most efficient ways to navigate the city. With extensive coverage across both urban and suburban areas, it is quick and relatively easy to use. Here’s everything you need to know to get around.
Payment Methods:
- Mobile QR Code Payment:
- App: “Yuchangxing” (渝畅行) is the official app for metro services in Chongqing. You can download this app to easily access real-time schedules, ticketing, and even make payments.
- Alipay: Open Alipay, select the “Pay” option, then click “Transportation Code” at the bottom to retrieve your “Chongqing Public Transportation Code.” This can be used directly to enter and exit the metro gates.
- Traditional Ticket Cards:
- Changtong Card (畅通卡): A rechargeable local transportation card, which can be topped up at metro counters or automatic ticket machines. Use it to directly tap into the gates at the entrance and exit.
- Single Journey Tickets: These are available at the manual ticket booths. Just insert the ticket into the turnstile when entering and exiting the metro. After exiting, the machine will collect the ticket.
- Ticket Machine Payments:
- Choose the number of tickets you want to buy (usually set to 1 as default), and you can pay with cash or card. The machines typically accept 5, 10, 20 yuan bills, and 1-yuan coins.
Metro Riding Tips:
- If you’re sensitive to temperature changes, note that some metro cars have varying air-conditioning settings. There are strong cooling cars set to 25°C and mild cooling cars at 27°C. You can check which car you’re in by looking at the LED screens at either end of the train.
- All passengers must go through security checks at metro stations. Ensure you do not carry prohibited items like flammable liquids, sprays, or items that could be considered dangerous.
- In summer, many locals use the metro to escape the heat. Don’t be surprised to see people playing cards, sleeping, doing homework, or even skipping rope in some stations.
- As some metro exits are confusing, always ask station staff for directions to avoid getting lost.
Chongqing Bus Guide
Buses in Chongqing are another convenient and budget-friendly way to get around the city. The system is vast, connecting both urban areas and suburban regions.
Payment Methods:
- Alipay: Simply use the “Chongqing Public Transportation Code” via the app.
- Cash: Always bring enough change, as bus conductors do not provide change. A typical bus fare is 2 yuan.
Special Buses:
- Alley Buses (小巷公交): These small, cute buses primarily travel through narrow roads. They are ideal for reaching popular tourist spots such as from Liziba to Eling Factory.
- Chongqing Yunba (重庆云巴Cloud Bus): This innovative system operates in Bishan (璧山) and is the world’s first intelligent, multi-dimensional transportation system. Resembling a “piggyback” train, it provides passengers with scenic views of several parks as it travels.
Yangtze River Cable Car Guide
Once a vital means of crossing the Yangtze River for locals, the Chongqing Yangtze Cable Car has now become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. It connects the Yuzhong and Nanan districts and offers an amazing aerial view of the Yangtze River and the cityscape, especially when the lights come on in the evening.
How to Ride:
- Booking Tickets: It’s highly recommended to reserve tickets in advance through WeChat’s official “Chongqing Yangtze Cable Car Reservation” account. If not booked, you may end up waiting for at least an hour.
- Queueing and Boarding:
- After receiving your ticket, wait to be called for entry into the designated area.
- Pass through a security check before queuing for the cable car.
- Be mindful that the cable car can get crowded, and shorter passengers may have difficulty enjoying the view if standing.
- Route Details:
- North Station: Take Metro Line 1 or Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station (小什字站).
- South Station: Take Metro Line 6 to Shangxin Street Station (上新街站).
- Operating Hours: 08:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Ticket Prices: One-way ticket costs 20 yuan; round-trip is 30 yuan.
- Tips for Reducing Waiting Time:
- Book early around 8 AM to avoid rush hours. While a reservation reduces wait times, it doesn’t eliminate them, so you may still experience some queuing.
Crown Escalator (China’s Longest Escalator) Guide
The Crown Escalator in Chongqing is recognized as the longest outdoor escalator in China. This impressive escalator is a vital part of the city’s infrastructure, helping locals and tourists travel between the steep hills in Chongqing’s urban area.
Escalator Details:
- Top Station: Lianglukou (两路口站, Light Rail Lines 1 & 3)
- Bottom Station: Caiyuanba (菜园坝站, Metro Line 1, closer to the bus station)
- Ticket Price: 2 yuan per ride
- Duration: The entire ride lasts around 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
- Operating Hours: 07:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Tips:
- Always ride the escalator both ways (round trip). If you don’t, it will be harder to access the metro station afterward.
Chongqing Travel Tips and Common Pitfalls
While navigating Chongqing’s public transportation system can be exciting and convenient, there are a few common issues and safety tips you should be aware of:
- Avoid Unmetered Yellow “Ferraris” (Yellow Taxis): These are local, unlicensed taxis known for their speed but also their lack of regulation. They’re often fast, but you risk overcharging or unsafe rides.
- Be Cautious with “Fake” Ride-hailing Drivers: Never get into a car if the driver claims to be a licensed ride-hailing driver but doesn’t use the official app. Many of these drivers may overcharge or have unsafe practices.
- Avoid Tourist Traps: After entering a legitimate taxi or ride, be wary of any “suggested stops” for shopping or sightseeing. These are often sales tactics targeting unsuspecting tourists.
- Ticket Scams on Tours: Do not buy tickets for river cruises, light shows, or other attractions from the driver or any vendor they recommend. Always purchase tickets from official sources.
- Always Ask for a Receipt: If you ride in an unlicensed vehicle (like a yellow “Ferrari”), always ask for a ticket to protect yourself from potential disputes.
- Facilities: Many of Chongqing’s bus stations are equipped with fans and wireless charging stations to help passengers stay comfortable while waiting.