Practical Tips for Train Tickets in Chongqing

Practical Tips for Train Tickets in Chongqing

Chongqing’s position as a major transportation hub makes its railway network a vital link for travel across China. Beyond understanding train types and ticket classes, here are additional tips focusing on station navigation and maximizing convenience. Please feel free to contact us if you want to know more about China travel.


Related recommended itineraries:

2-Day Chongqing Citywalk

3-Day Chongqing Trip

4-Day Chongqing four-day Tour


1. Navigating Chongqing’s Train Stations

Chongqing has several railway stations, each serving different routes and train types:

 Chongqing North Railway Station: The busiest station, handling both high-speed and conventional trains. This is a key departure point for popular routes like Chengdu, Xi’an, and Beijing.

 Chongqing West Railway Station: Specializes in high-speed trains, offering a modern and less crowded experience.

 Chongqing East Railway Station: A growing hub, catering to regional and high-speed routes.

 Chongqing Railway Station (Central): The oldest station, mainly serving conventional trains.

Tips:

 Always check your departure and arrival stations when booking, as the stations are far apart.

 Use public transport like the metro or taxis for easy access to these stations. Chongqing North has two separate terminals connected by shuttle buses, so plan your timing carefully.

2. Enhancing Your Travel Experience

 E-Tickets and QR Codes:

 Booking online through the 12306 app or website provides e-tickets that can be used with a QR code and your ID or passport. This eliminates the need to queue for paper tickets.Avoiding Peak Times:

 During holidays like Chinese New Year, Golden Week, or weekends, train stations can be extremely crowded. Opt for midweek travel or book early to secure your preferred ticket.Boarding Tips:

 Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure to clear security, especially at larger stations like Chongqing North. Follow signs in both English and Chinese to find your platform.Amenities and Food:

 High-speed trains offer onboard dining and snacks, while conventional trains may require you to bring your own food. Station shops and convenience stores are available but may be pricier.Special Services:

Travelers with heavy luggage can use station baggage services or porters for a small fee. Elderly or disabled travelers can request priority boarding assistance.By mastering station navigation and leveraging modern conveniences like e-tickets, train travel in Chongqing becomes a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Contact Us

What Our Clients Say?

Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews

...
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s): Shanghai
Date of Experience: May 08,2024
...
...
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories. Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s): Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of Experience: June 02,2025
... ... ...
...
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic! Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale. For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return. A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s): Zhangjiajie
Date of Experience: May 08,2025
... ...

Ask a Question

Question Summary (100 characters)
Details (optional) (2,000 characters)
Name
Country
Email