How to Get from Chengdu to Chongqing: Best Transportation Guide

Planning a trip from Chengdu to Chongqing? You’ve got options, but efficiency is key. From the lightning-fast 90-minute high-speed train to the flexibility of a scenic road trip, this guide breaks down the best ways to travel.

Chengdu to Chongqing: 4 Best Ways Overview

Here’s a quick, clear comparison of all travel options (rates may fluctuate):

Option 1: Chengdu to Chongqing by High-Speed Train

The high-speed train (bullet train) from Chengdu to Chongqing is the top choice for traveling between Chengdu and Chongqing—fast, reliable, and well-connected to city centers.

• Route & Stations: Main routes connect Chengdu East Railway Station (primary departure) and Chongqing North Railway Station (primary arrival). Secondary routes include Chengdu South → Chongqing West, but East/North stations are most convenient (close to downtown).
• Frequency: 70+ daily trains, with departures every 15–30 minutes during peak hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 PM).
• Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (fastest) to 2 hours (slower routes with stops).
• Ticket Prices:
• • Second Class (Economy): ¥130 – ¥160 ($19 – $24)
  • First Class: ¥210 – ¥250 ($31 – $37)
  • Business Class: ¥430 – ¥830 ($63 – $122)
• Booking: Book online via Trip.com, 12306.cn (official app), or on-site ticket counters. Book 3–7 days in advance for peak seasons (holidays, weekends).

Option 2: Chengdu to Chongqing by Direct Flight

Book direct flights between Chengdu and Chongqing (suspended temporarily in the past but now fully restored). It’s the quickest way to travel, ideal for travelers short on time.

• Airports:
• • Departure: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) or Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
  • Arrival: Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG)
• Travel Time: ~1 hour (gate-to-gate; total time including airport transfers: 3–4 hours).
• Frequency: 10+ daily direct flights (airlines: Air China, China Southern, Sichuan Airlines, Hainan Airlines).
• Ticket Prices: CNY 300 – 800 ($44 – $117) (varies by season; budget fares available 2–4 weeks in advance).

Option 3: Chengdu to Chongqing by Long-Distance Bus

Long-distance buses are a cheap alternative, though slower than trains/flights. They’re best for travelers on a tight budget who don’t mind a longer ride.

Buses are air-conditioned with adjustable seats and offer more luggage space than trains, but they’re vulnerable to traffic jams—especially on weekends.

If you choose the bus, bring snacks and water (on-board amenities are basic) and book tickets online or directly at the station. Look for buses labeled “air-conditioned” for a more comfortable ride.

• Departure Stations (Chengdu): Chengdu East Railway Station Bus Terminal, Chengdu North Passenger Transport Center, Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station.
• Arrival Stations (Chongqing): Chongqing Longtousi Bus Station, Chongqing Chenjiaping Bus Station, Chongqing Sigongli Transport Hub.
• Travel Time: 4 – 5 hours (depends on traffic; no toll roads may take 6 hours).
• Ticket Prices: CNY 80 – 120 ($12 – $18).
• Frequency: Hourly departures (6:00 AM – 8:00 PM).

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Option 4: Chengdu to Chongqing by Road Trip

A self-drive trip from Chengdu to Chongqing offers freedom to explore hidden gems en route. The journey covers ~300km via the Chengdu-Chongqing Expressway (G85), with scenic stops along the way.

• Route: Chengdu → Neijiang → Yongchuan → Chongqing (3.5 – 4 hours without stops; 5–6 hours with sightseeing).
• Cost:
• • Car Rental: $44 – $73 / day (economy car; includes insurance).
  • Fuel & Tolls: ~$44 (one-way; tolls: $22, fuel: $22).
• Driving Tips:
• • Expressways are well-maintained; drive on the right side of the road.
  • Carry a valid international driver’s license (IDP) or Chinese driver’s license.
  • Use navigation apps like Gaode Map (Amap) or Baidu Maps (English version available).

Top En Route Attractions (Sightseeing Stops)

• 1. Zhang Daqian’s Former Residence (Neijiang)
• • 2-hour drive from Chengdu; 1.5-hour drive to Chongqing.
  • Highlights: Former home of legendary Chinese painter Zhang Daqian, traditional Sichuan-style courtyards, art exhibitions, and personal artifacts.
  • Address: Downtown Neijiang, Sichuan Province.
  • Stay Time: 1.5 – 2 hours.
• 2. Yongchuan Bamboo Sea (Yongchuan District, Chongqing)
• • 3-hour drive from Chengdu; 1-hour drive to Chongqing.
  • Highlights: 120 sq.km of bamboo forests (filming location for House of Flying Daggers), cable car rides, hiking trails, and local tea tastings.
  • Address: Yongchuan District, Chongqing.
  • Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
  • Stay Time: 2 – 3 hours.

Must-See Attractions in Chongqing

After arriving in Chongqing, don’t miss these iconic spots with coupon:

1. Yangtze River Cableway

• Highlight: “Sky corridor” spanning the Yangtze River, offering panoramic views of Chongqing’s skyline (featured in movies like Crazy Stone).
• Address: 151 Xinhua Road, Yuzhong District.
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Transport: Metro Line 2 to Xiaoshizi Station (5-minute walk).
• Ticket: about $3 (one-way); $4.5 (round-trip).

2. Jinfo Mountain

• Highlight: Karst mountain with dramatic cliffs, glass skywalk, ancient temples, and seasonal scenery (cherry blossoms in spring, snow in winter).
• Address: Nanchuan District, Chongqing.
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Transport: Train from Chongqing West Station to Nanchuan East Station → transfer to scenic area bus.
• Ticket: about $12 (adult); free for kids ≤1.2m.

3. Ciqikou Ancient Town

• Highlight: 1,000-year-old town with traditional wooden buildings, street food (spicy tofu, sesame candy), and riverside views.
• Address: Shapingba District, Chongqing.
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Transport: Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station.
• Ticket: Free (some small museums charge about $1.5-$3).

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