Chongqing Metro Guide 2026: English Map, Tickets & Liziba

Navigating Chongqing's 8D magic city? A complete English guide to the Chongqing Metro (CRT) covering Alipay, Airport Line 10, and the Liziba train building.

Chongqing, China’s legendary "8D Magic City," is a sensory explosion unlike any other. Famous for its mouth-watering spicy hotpot, shimmering neon nightscapes, and the world-renowned Liziba Station where monorails glide through residential high-rises, this mountain metropolis is a dream for explorers. With a mind-bending vertical topography where "ground level" is a relative term, navigating this urban labyrinth requires a strategy.

By 2026, the Chongqing Rail Transit (CRT) has become the ultimate golden ticket for navigating the city. This manual covers everything from the deepest stations in the world to the famous "train through a building" experience.

Fast Facts for 2026 Travelers:

• Iconic Sight: Liziba Station (Line 2) - The train passes through a building.

• Deepest Station: Hongtudi Station (Line 6/10) - 94 meters underground.

• Fastest Airport Link: Line 10 (Rapid Express) from CKG T2/T3.

• Top Payment Method: Alipay/WeChat Transport Code or NFC.

• Must-have App: Amap (Gaode) for 3D elevation maps.

1. Seamless Travel: Payments, Fares & Ticketing Guide

In 2026, the era of fumbling for coins is long gone. While physical tokens still exist, they are the slowest way to travel.

1.1 Understanding Fares

Chongqing Metro uses a distance-based fare system. As of 2026, the general pricing is as follows:

• Starting Fare: 2 RMB (covers the first 6 km).

• Incremental Increase: 1 RMB added for every subsequent 10-14 km depending on the total distance.

• Capped Fare: Most cross-city journeys will not exceed 7-10 RMB.

• Transfer Rule: Transfers between lines within the gated area are free.

1.2 Types of Tickets

• Single Journey Token: A green plastic coin purchased at vending machines. Ideal for one-time use. Must be tapped to enter and inserted into the slot to exit.

• 1-Day, 3-Day & 5-Day Passes: Available at Customer Service Centers at almost every metro stations or you can purchase via Chongqing metro official app: Yuchangxing. 

• 1-Day Pass (approx. 18 RMB): Unlimited rides for 24 hours.

• 3-Day Pass (approx. 45 RMB): Unlimited rides for 72 hours. Perfect for heavy sightseeing.

• 5-Day Pass (approx. 70 RMB): Unlimited rides for 120 hours. Perfect for deep-diving city tour.

• Standard Transit Card (畅通卡, physical card): Rechargeable. Best for long-term stays (over a week). Provides a 10% discount on every ride.

1.3 Comprehensive Guide to Riding Methods

Depending on your stay duration and tech preference, here are the four ways to pay in 2026:

A. Physical Tickets & Cards (The Traditional Choice)：purchase at metro stations

B. Official App: Yu Chang Xing (The Local Professional)

Image from 图片来源, Copyright by 作者, 补充说明

• Advantages: This is the official CRT App. Works for Metro and bus both. In 2026, it offers real-time carriage crowd density, car temperature, and precise arrival countdowns. 

• Flexible Payments: It supports binding Alipay and WeChat Pay as payment sources, making it convenient for those who don't want to link a bank card directly.

• Best for: Travelers who want the most accurate system information alongside their transit code.

• Cumulative Monthly Discounts: Offers the best tiered rewards for frequent riders:

  • Under 100 RMB spent: Enjoy a 10% discount (90% of original fare).

  • 100 RMB - 200 RMB spent: Enjoy a 30% discount (70% of original fare) starting from the next ride.

  • Over 200 RMB spent: Enjoy a 50% discount (Half price!) starting from the next ride.

C. Third-Party: Alipay & WeChat (The Easiest for Travelers)

• Advantages: No need to download new apps. Highly recommended for international travelers since they support linked foreign credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

• Setup: Search for "Transport Code" (乘车码) in Alipay or WeChat, select Chongqing, and complete identity verification. Alipay👇Wechat👇: Search Chongqing Metro, then click "重庆轨道渝畅行”→use translate function to finish sign up

• Note: One person per code; you cannot scan the same phone for multiple people.

D. NFC & Mobile Payments (The Fastest "Tap & Go")

• Advantages: No need to open any app or wake your screen. Just tap your phone or smartwatch against the gate sensor.

• Compatibility: Supports Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and major international contactless transit cards compatible with China's T-Union system.

2. Overview of Chongqing Metro Lines (2026 Update)

【Click to view the high-definition version】

Before diving into the scenery, it helps to understand the "spine" of the city. Chongqing uses both traditional Heavy Rail (Metro) and the famous Monorail (Straddle Type) which is designed to handle steep hills and sharp curves. Chongqing Metro currently operates around 13 lines, with the total network exceeding 570 km as of 2025. With several new lines and extensions opening, the rail network is expected to grow to about 700 km by 2026.

Upcoming Lines & Extensions (Opening Throughout 2026)：

The network is rapidly expanding. The following sections are scheduled to commence operations by the end of 2026:

• Line 15 (Express Line Phase 1 & 2): A high-speed east-west corridor (140km/h) connecting Zengjia to Liangjiang Movie City via the Airport.

• Line 27 (Express Line): Linking major railway hubs (Chongqing West, Shapingba, Chongqing North) across the city center.

• Line 4 (Western Extension): Connecting Min'an Avenue further into the Panshiban and Guanyinqiao areas.

• Line 6 (Eastern Extension): Extending from Liujiaping to the new Chongqing East Railway Station.

• Line 18 (Northern Extension): Connecting the current terminus at Fuhualu to the Xiaoshizi (Jiefangbei) area.

3. Highlight Lines: Liziba, Airport & Key Routes

Chongqing’s rail system is more than a utility—it is a series of "cinematic" journeys. Here is a detailed breakdown of the routes that define the city's visual identity.

🚇Chongqing Metro Line 2 (Liziba Station & Iconic Monorail Line)

Chongqing Metro Line 2 is the city’s most famous sightseeing line, known worldwide for Liziba Station, where the monorail passes directly through a residential building.

Major Transfers:
Jiaochangkou: Lines 1 & Loop Line (Downtown interchange).
Niujiaotuo: Lines 3 & Loop Line (River crossing hub).
Daping: Line 1 (Access to shopping malls and cinemas).

Things to Do:
Watch the train pass through a residential building at Liziba Station, one of Chongqing’s most iconic photo spots.
Enjoy riverside views and night scenery along the route from Daxigou to Huanghuayuan.
Explore downtown shopping and dining areas near Jiaochangkou and Jiefangbei.

Liziba Station on Line 2 is hands-down one of Chongqing's coolest spots – it's that famous "train through the building" scene where the monorail zooms right through floors 6 to 8 of a 19-story residential block. It's a total mind-blower and a must-snap for anyone visiting the city.

To catch the best views, head straight to the Liziba Viewing Platform (it's right across the street from Exit A or Exit 1/2 – you literally can't miss it, just follow the crowds). This spot is built specifically for tourists, with plenty of space and killer angles to watch the train emerge or disappear into the building. It's wide open, safe, and gives you that perfect full-on shot with the city's layered skyline in the background.

If you want something a bit less crowded, try the streets nearby – like walking down from Exit 2 along the road for a closer, side-on perspective, or even spots overlooking the Jialing River for a wider scenic vibe.

🚇 Chongqing Metro Line 10 (Airport Express Line to Jiangbei International Airport)

A fast and modern line connecting central Chongqing with Jiangbei International Airport and major business zones.

Major Transfers:
Jiangbei Airport T2 & T3: Direct access to flights (Look for the "Rapid" signs).
Hongtudi: Line 6 (The deepest station in China, descending over 94 meters).
Chongqing North Railway Station: Lines 3, 4 & Loop Line.

Things to Do:
Experience the "Journey to the Center of the Earth" on the massive series of escalators at Hongtudi Station.
Visit the Houbao Station park for a breathtaking panorama of Raffles City and the river confluence.
Ideal for travelers with luggage due to spacious trains.

🚇 Chongqing Metro Line 3 (Airport Line & Major Tourist Corridor)

Chongqing Metro Line 3 is one of the busiest and longest metro lines, connecting the airport with major tourist attractions and commercial areas.

Major Transfers:

Jiangbei Airport: Lines 3 & 10 (Airport interchange).
Lianglukuo: Line 1 (Access to the historic Crown Escalator).
Niujiaotuo: Line 2 (Famous for the elevated glass transfer corridor).
Chongqing North Railway Station: Lines 10, 4 & Loop Line.

Things to Do:

Visit Hongyadong and Jiefangbei via downtown stations.
Explore Ciqikou Ancient Town with a short transfer.
Take the train across the Yangtze River Bridge for a dizzying view of the river from 100 meters above.
Shop at Guanyinqiao Station to see the "Giant 3D Cat" LED screen and modern commercial heart.

🚇 Chongqing Metro Line 6 (The Night View Masterpiece)

Connecting the northern and southern districts, this line offers the best access to Chongqing's cyberpunk nightscapes and riverside parks.

Major Transfers:

Hongtudi: Line 10 (Airport access).
Xiaoshizi: Line 1 (Close to Chaotianmen).
Xiaoshizi: Line 1 (The primary gateway to Hongyadong, Chaotianmen, and Raffles City).
Grand Theater: Line 9 (Direct access to the Jiangbeizui riverside business district).

Things to Do:

Visit Chaotianmen Dock and enjoy river cruises.
Exit at Grand Theater Station at sunset for the ultimate "Cyberpunk" photo of the glowing Hongyadong complex.
Explore the historic Longmenhao Old Street and local stilt-house food stalls near Shanghao Station.

🚇Chongqing Metro Line 1 (Jiefangbei & Historic Downtown Line)

Chongqing Metro Line 1 is a key east–west route linking historic districts with Chongqing’s main commercial areas.

Major Transfers:

Xiaoshizi: Line 6 (Access to the Raffles City and Chaotianmen).
Shapingba: Lines 9 & Loop Line (Major shopping and high-speed rail hub).
Jiaochangkou: Line 2 & Loop Line.

Things to Do:

Visit the Ciqikou Old Town (Ciqikou Stn) to taste local snacks and explore traditional architecture.
Shop at Jiefangbei CBD and see the Liberation Monument via Xiaoshizi or Jiaochangkou Stn.

🚇Chongqing Metro Loop Line (Best Line for Transfers & City Exploration)

A circular metro line that links the four major districts and all main railway stations, perfect for bypassing the city center.

Major Transfers:

Chongqing North/West Stations: Direct connections to high-speed rail.
Danzishi: Access to the Nan'an District riverfront.
Ranjiaba: Lines 5 & 6.
Liyuchi: Line 10.
Shapingba: Lines 1 & 9.

Things to Do:

Visit Danzishi Old Street (Danzishi Stn) for a unique blend of Victorian-style architecture and traditional Chinese gardens.
Easily hop between the city's railway hubs when catching trains to Chengdu or other provinces.
Enjoy seamless connections to almost all major metro lines.

4. How to Ride the Metro: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Navigating the Entrance & Security

Finding a station entrance in Chongqing can be tricky as they are often tucked into shopping malls or hidden behind hills. Look for CRT (Chongqing Rail Transit) logos.

• Strict Security: Every bag, including small purses, must pass through the X-ray scanner.

• Prohibited Items: High-pressure aerosols (like large cans of spray sunscreen or hairspray >700ml) are often confiscated. Power banks over 20,000mAh or 100Wh may also be restricted.

• Liquid Check: If you have a drink, the guard will ask you to place it on a dedicated liquid scanner or take a sip.

Step 2: Fare Payment & The Gate

• The "Wait" Rule: Do not lean over the gate sensor before scanning. Wait for the green arrow, then pass through.

• Single Journey Tokens: If you use a green round token, tap it on the sensor to enter, and keep it safe—you must insert it into the slot to exit.

Step 3: Platform Level & Directional Awareness

• Terminal Guide: Look for the terminal station name on the platform screen doors. For example, follow signs for "Towards Yudong" (往鱼洞方向).

• Elevation Insight: Some stations have platforms on different floors. Check the floor guide near the elevators.

Step 4: Onboard Conduct & Transfers

• Transfer Labyrinths: In stations like Lianglukuo, transfers involve long escalators. Follow the colored lines on the floor: Red for Line 1, Blue for Line 3.

• The "Transfer Buffer" (Critical): Due to the massive size of interchange hubs, it can take 10-15 minutes to walk from one line to another. If you are catching a connecting train near the end of service, ensure you reach the interchange station well before the last train's scheduled arrival.

Step 5: Exiting to the Correct Elevation

• Check the Exit Map: Exit A might lead to a riverside road, while Exit B (just 20 meters away on the map) might lead to a bridge 50 meters above you. Always check the destination list posted near the fare gates.

5. Navigating Chongqing: Airport & Top Attractions

Traveling from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) to the city center is fast and efficient by metro. In 2026, the network is optimized for seamless "Airport-to-Sightseeing" transitions, with the most recommended routes taking only 40–60 minutes to reach major landmarks.

✈️ Route Master: CKG Airport to Downtown (Jiefangbei/Hongyadong)

🚀 Quickest Route to Center: Line 10 (Rapid) → Hongtudi (Transfer) → Line 6 → Xiaoshizi. (45 mins).

The Line 10 "Rapid Express" is the quickest way to reach the city center. 

1. Board: Follow signs for Line 10 at T3 or T2.

2. Catch the "Rapid": Look for Orange headers on platform screens. These trains skip minor stops, saving 20 minutes.

3. Transfer: Get off at Hongtudi Station and switch to Line 6 (towards Chayuan).

4. Arrive: Exit at Xiaoshizi Station.

   • Exit 9: Best for Hongyadong.

   • Exit 2/6: Best for Jiefangbei.

• Total Time: ~45 mins | Cost: ~7 RMB.

🗺️ Getting to Top Attractions

From the downtown hub (Xiaoshizi/Jiefangbei), use these direct connections to reach the city's must-see spots:

• Hongyadong (The Sprawling Stilt Houses)

  • Station: Xiaoshizi (Line 1/6), Exit 9.

  • Quick Tip: Visit after 7:30 PM for the lights. The best photo spot is actually the sidewalk on Qiansimen Bridge.

• Ciqikou Old Town (Traditional Heritage)

  • Station: Ciqikou (Line 1), Exit 1.

  • Quick Tip: Avoid weekends if possible. Follow the smaller side alleys to escape the main tourist crowds.

• Liziba "Train Through Building"

  • Station: Liziba (Line 2).

  • Quick Tip: Stay on the train for one stop to feel the curve, then go down to the street-level platform for the "money shot."

• Grand Theater (Cyberpunk Skyline)

  • Station: Grand Theater (Line 6), Exit 2.

  • Quick Tip: This is the premier spot for the "city across the river" view. Perfect for long-exposure photography.

• Huangjueping Graffiti Street

  • Station: 18梯 (Line 18).

  • Quick Tip: Once hard to reach, this art district is now a direct ride away. Check out the "501 Art Storage" while you're there.

6. Essential Pro-Tips & Etiquette: Navigating Like a Local

6.1 Peak Hours & Crowded Navigation

• The "Rush" Schedule: Avoid traveling during 07:30–09:30 and 17:30–19:30.

• Interchange Congestion: Stations like Xiaoshizi (Line 1/6) and Ranjiaba (Line 5/6/Loop) can get extremely packed. If you see a massive line at an escalator, look for a second one often located at the other end of the platform.

6.2 Luggage Logistics & "Empty Hand" Travel

• Priority Line 10: If you have large suitcases, only use Line 10. Its cars are designed with 100% flat floors and wider gangways.

• Baggage Delivery: Look for "Airport Express" (机场快线) luggage service counters at major hubs. You can check your bags at the station to be delivered directly to your hotel or the airport for a small fee.

6.3 Vertical Challenges & 3D Navigation

• 3D Maps & Apps: Use Amap (Gaode) or Baidu Maps. By 2026, they offer precise 3D indoor navigation that shows you which elevator to take to reach the specific "street level" you need.

• The "Dianti" (Lift) Hunt: Look for the international disability symbol. If lost, ask staff: "Dianti zai nali?" (Where is the lift?).

• ⚠️ Survival Warning: The "8D" Mapping Illusion In Chongqing, a 2D map might show a metro station entrance is only "50 meters away." However, in reality, that entrance might be 15 stories directly beneath your feet at the bottom of a cliff! Always use the 3D mode on local Chinese mapping apps like Amap (Gaode) to check if you need to find a public elevator to reach the correct street level before walking.

6.4 Digital Connectivity & Real-Time Info

• Network Coverage: Chongqing's deep stations have full 5G/6G coverage. Your translation apps will work even at the bottom of the 100-meter-deep Hongtudi Station.

• The "Yu Chang Xing" App: This is the official CRT App. In 2026, it shows the real-time "crowd density" of each upcoming carriage and the exact temperature of the car.

6.5 Last Train Caution

• The Nighttime Buffer: While lines may officially close at 22:30 or 23:00, the last entry at specific station gates may be slightly earlier. Never wait for the very last minute. Plan to be at the interchange hub at least 20 minutes before the last train departs.

6.6 Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) Line 3 & Line 10

• Line 3 only goes directly to Terminal 2 (T2) – it stops at Jiangbei Airport T2 Station. If your flight is from Terminal 3 (T3) (which handles most international and many domestic flights these days), you'll need to switch to Line 10 at T2 or take the free airport shuttle bus (runs often, but adds 10-15 minutes). Line 10 is way more convenient: it stops at both T2 and T3 (separate stations: Jiangbei Airport T2 and T3). If you're heading to T3, hop on Line 10 and you're there without any hassle. Use Line 10 instead of Line 3 when traveling with luggage.

Related guide: Chengdu Metro Guide

7. FAQ

We’ve gathered the most frequent questions from Reddit's travel communities (r/Chongqing, r/TravelChina) to help you navigate like a pro.

Q: "I heard GPS is useless in Chongqing. How do I find the right metro exit?"

A: True! Standard GPS can't tell if you are on the 1st floor or the 22nd.

Reddit Tip: Look at the "Exit Information" signs before you tap out. They list landmarks and their elevations. Use Amap (Gaode) instead of Google Maps—its 3D mode is much more accurate for Chongqing's layered terrain.

Q: "Alipay says 'Invalid Code' when I try to enter the gate. Help!"

A: This is a common pain point for foreigners.

Reddit Tip: Ensure you have authorized the "Chongqing Public Transport Code" (重庆公共交通乘车码) specifically. If it still fails, it’s usually because your linked foreign card needs a quick 3D-Secure verification. Have a backup 1-day pass or some cash just in case for the first ride.

Q: "Is the transfer at Hongtudi Station really that long?"

A: Yes, it’s a workout! You are descending/ascending nearly 30 stories.

Reddit Tip: If you have heavy luggage, avoid transferring between Line 6 and Line 10 at Hongtudi if possible. Use Line 10 directly from the airport to Yubei/Jiangbei districts to minimize deep-level transfers.

Q: "What happens if I miss the last metro after seeing the night view?"

A: "Chongqing's night view lights usually turn off at 10:00 PM - 10:30 PM. The metro also closes around 11:00 PM.

Reddit Tip: If you miss it, use 'Didi' (China's Uber). It's integrated into Alipay/WeChat and is very affordable at night." 

Q: "What's the 'Cyberpunk' photo spot everyone talks about?"

A: It’s Grand Theater Station (Line 6).

Reddit Tip: Don't just stay in the station. Take Exit 2 and walk toward the riverside. At 7:30 PM, when the lights on the Qiansimen Bridge and Hongyadong turn on, it looks exactly like a scene from Blade Runner.

Q: "Can I use one phone to scan for my partner and me?"

A: No. Each passenger needs their own QR code/device for entry and exit.

Reddit Tip: If your travel partner doesn't have a local SIM/App setup, buy them a physical 3-Day Pass at the airport station service desk. It saves the headache of tethering data.

Q: "Is Chongqing Metro easy to use for first-time visitors?"

A: Yes. Chongqing Metro is modern, clean, and tourist-friendly. Most stations have English signage, bilingual announcements, and clear line colors. Ticket machines support English, and mobile payments make entry quick even if you don’t speak Chinese.

Q: "Which metro line goes to Liziba Station?"

A: Chongqing Metro Line 2 serves Liziba Station, where the train famously passes through a residential building. It is one of the most photographed metro stations in China and a must-see attraction.

Q: "Does Chongqing Metro accept Alipay or WeChat Pay?"

A: Yes. Chongqing Metro supports Alipay, WeChat Pay, and the official metro app via QR code scanning.