Chongqing North Railway Station: Square Tips & Transfers

As the primary transport hub for the region, Chongqing North Railway Station (重庆北站) serves as the definitive introduction to the city’s unique topography. Characterized by its massive scale and complex dual-plaza layout (North and South). This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the station’s structure, smooth transfer, and practical advice to ensure a seamless start to your Chongqing travel experience.

❗The two squares are now fully linked. To minimize walking, please check your ticket for the designated Check Gate and choose the plaza closest to that location.

🧭 Distinguishing North and South Squares

Understanding the operational distinction between the two plazas is critical for departure. Please verify your ticket information against the following classification:

Feature	North Square	South Square
Trains Served	High-speed (G/D/C series)	Long-distance/ordinary (Z/T/K series)
Nearby Ticket Gates	1–2 (small numbers)	24-25 (large numbers)
Metro Access	Lines 4 & 10	Lines 3, 10, & Loop Line

🛂 Identity Verification for International Passengers

Please be aware that the station’s automated facial recognition gates are primarily designed for domestic ID cards. Consequently, travelers holding international passports must undergo a manual verification process.

• Entry Procedure: Instead of queuing at the automated turnstiles, please proceed directly to the “Manual ticket-checking lane” (人工通道 / Rén Gōng Tōng Dào). These staffed counters are typically situated at the far left or far right of the security checkpoint.

💡 Hand your passport to the staff. Simply present your physical passport to the officer for verification. This dedicated channel often offers a more expedited entry due to lower passenger volume.

Heading to Popular Destinations from Chongqing North Railway Station

Chongqing North Railway Station offers convenient connections to major attractions and nearby cities. Here are the most efficient transfer options:

🚇 Metro Connection

• North Square: Line 4 or 10 is steps from the exit. This is the optimal starting point for travelers heading to Jiangbei International Airport or Hongya Cave, offering streamlined connections with minimal transfers.
• South Square: Line 3, 10, or Loop Line are right here. Easily accessible to Liberation Monument.

➡️How to Get to Hongya Cave from Chongqing North Railway Station?

• Take Line 10 to Hongtudi Station(红土地) from north square, and transfer to Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station(小什字). It takes Approximately 40 minutes to reach Hongya Cave.

If you’re hauling suitcases or traveling with kids/elders, book a private transfer—worth every penny to skip stairs.

➡️How to Get to Jiefangbei from Chongqing North Railway Station?

• Take Line 10 to Zengjiayan Station(曾家岩)from south square, transfer to Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station(临江门). It will take about 30 minutes.
• Taxi alternative: A taxi ride takes 25–35 minutes with an estimated fare of ¥40–60.

➡️How to Get to Guanyinqiao from Chongqing North Railway Station?

• Take Line 3 to Guanyinqiao Station(观音桥) from south square. It will take approximately 30 minutes.
• Taxi: A taxi ride requires 15–25 minutes and costs approximately ¥20–30.

Tips: Please take licensed taxis or use ride-hailing apps to avoid travel scams.

➡️How to Get to Chongqing West Railway Station from Chongqing North Railway Station

1. Take the Chengdu-Chongqing high-speed rail (about 30 minutes) or transfer to the Metro Ring Line.
2. Metro Loop Line: Convenient if you’re already on the metro.

Convenient Access to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

⚠️Two easy ways to get to Jiangbei International Airport (or to travel from there).

1. Metro Line 10 (North Square → Terminal 2/Terminal 3): Runs 06:30–23:00, ~1 hour ride (Cheapest but time-consuming).
2. High-speed rail: Faster but fewer departures—check schedules in advance if you’re tight on time.

📍 Essential Bilingual Cheat Sheet

For assistance, show this to staff:

“Where is the manual ticket check channel?” — 人工检票通道在哪里? (Rén gōng jiǎn piào tōng dào zài nǎ lǐ?)

“Where is the Metro?” — 地铁站在哪里? (Dìtiě zhàn zài nǎlǐ?)

“North Square” — 北广场 (Běi guǎngchǎng)

“South Square” — 南广场 (Nán guǎngchǎng)

Bullet Train Travel from Chongqing North Railway Station

Below is an overview of the most popular high-speed rail routes departing from this station:

Destination	Details	Price
Chengdu(成都)	Approximately 1-2.5 hours via high-speed train.	Second class start at CNY 96.5. First-class seats start at CNY 155.
Xi’an North(西安北)	Around 5-6 hours.	Second class start at CNY 279.5. First-class seats start at CNY 447.
Beijing(北京)	High-speed connections take between 7-9 hours.	Second-class seats start at CNY 941. First-class seats start at CNY 1505.
Wulong South(武隆)	Approximately 40 minutes.	Second class start at CNY 71. First-class seats start at CNY 114.

📝Essential Tips for A Smooth Travel Experience

For your convenience, this section outlines essential practical information regarding station facilities.

• The commercial facilities in the North Square are newer and more comprehensive than those in the South Square. Head to the mezzanine level of the waiting hall on the second floor of the North Square, where you can find fast food (McDonald’s/Dicos) and authentic Chongqing noodles.
• Official luggage storage is available near the entrances of both the North and South Squares; avoid private street shops, which are often overpriced and unreliable.
• The high-speed train makes several stops. Please confirm your destination and follow the onboard announcements and display signs.
• The station has elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms—no need to carry luggage up stairs.

Chongqing North Railway Station serves as a reliable gateway for travelers exploring the city and the greater Southwest China region. Whether you are setting out to experience Chongqing’s dramatic mountain scenery, sample its famous hotpot, or simply transferring to your next destination, Chongqing North Railway Station offers efficient services and convenient connections, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

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