Chengdu to Chongqing
Linking two of Southwest China's greatest cities, this route connects the land of pandas with the mountain hot pot capital along the new high-speed rail line.
Travel Options
High-Speed Rail
High-Speed Rail
Every 15-20 minutes
Flight
Flight
15+ flights daily
Bus
Bus
Every 30 minutes
Route Comparison
| Type | Duration | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Speed Rail | 1-1.5 hours | $15-$30 | Speed, comfort, and city-centre arrival |
| Flight | 1 hour | $40-$100 | Long distances over 1,000 km |
| Bus | 3-4 hours | $12-$20 | Budget travel and rural destinations |
Booking Tips
Book train tickets on Trip.com or the official 12306 app, both of which accept foreign passports.
Tickets for popular routes sell out quickly during holidays — book at least two weeks in advance for Golden Week and Chinese New Year.
Second-class seats on high-speed trains are spacious and comfortable for journeys under five hours.
For overnight trains, soft sleeper berths offer the best comfort with a private four-bed compartment.
Domestic flights are often cheaper than trains for distances over 1,500 km, especially with budget carriers like Spring Airlines.
Download the Didi app for in-city rides — it works like Uber and supports English.
At train stations, arrive at least 30 minutes early as security screening and ID checks can be time-consuming.
Keep your passport handy — it is required for all train ticket purchases and boarding in China.
About Chengdu
The laid-back capital of Sichuan Province is famous worldwide for its giant panda breeding centers and fiery Sichuan cuisine. Chengdu is known as the land of abundance, offering a slower pace of life with its teahouse culture, mahjong traditions, and proximity to stunning natural landscapes including Jiuzhaigou Valley.
Explore Chengdu city guideAbout Chongqing
Built dramatically across steep hills at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, Chongqing is one of China's most visually striking cities. Famous for its mouth-numbing hot pot, neon-lit night skyline, and serving as the starting point for Yangtze River cruises through the Three Gorges, this mountainous megacity offers an unforgettable urban experience unlike anywhere else in China.
Explore Chongqing city guide