China train guide · checked October 2026
Xi'an to Chongqing by train
From the terracotta warriors to the neon canyons of Chongqing: the train crosses the Qinling Mountains into the Sichuan basin.
- Journey timeabout 5–6 hours
- Fastest train5 h
- Second classfrom ¥350 (about 203 PLN) – up to ¥450
- How oftendirect high-speed trains several times a day
Stations
Show the Chinese name to your taxi driver.
Metro line 2 from the Bell Tower takes about 30 minutes.
Trains arrive at Chongqing West (重庆西站) or Chongqing North (重庆北站) – two stations far apart, so check which one is on your ticket.
Good to know
- Pick the arrival station closest to your hotel – Chongqing West and Chongqing North are far apart.
- Chongqing is hilly and built in layers: a taxi from the station is often easier than the metro with a suitcase.
Other ways: Flights Xi'an (XIY) – Chongqing (CKG) take about 1.5 hours.
On the way
South of Xi'an the train enters the Qinling Mountains – the climatic divide between northern and southern China – and runs mostly through tunnels before descending into the green Sichuan Basin.
When you arrive
Stay in Yuzhong, near Jiefangbei or Hongyadong; from either station it's a metro ride or a taxi. In the evening walk to Hongyadong, the stilt-house complex lit up above the Jialing River (the best view is from Qiansimen Bridge), and finish the day with your first Chongqing hotpot.
How to book
- Buy on Trip.com (English, foreign cards) or in the official 12306 app – tickets go on sale 15 days before departure.
- Your passport is your ticket: you book with its number and scan it at the gates. Bring the same passport you booked with.
- Be at the station 40–60 minutes early: there is a security check at the entrance, and gates close a few minutes before departure.
- Big suitcases fit at the end of each carriage or on the racks above the seats.
Times and fares are typical values for second class, checked in October 2026. Fares are dynamic (peak trains cost more) and timetables change – check the live timetable on Trip.com or 12306 before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see the Terracotta Army on the day I leave Xi'an?
Only if you take an afternoon train: the army is about an hour from Xi'an North by taxi, and you need about 3 hours there. It's more relaxed to see it the day before.
Can I stop in Chengdu on the way?
Yes. Xi'an – Chengdu takes about 3–4 hours and Chengdu – Chongqing 1–1.5 hours, which adds pandas and teahouses to the trip.
