It has been possible to travel between Chongqing and Fenghuang Ancient Town by direct train since the opening of Chongqing East Railway Station (Chongqingdong) on June of 2025. There are 3 direct trains available daily. But if you make a transfer at Zhangjiajie West Station (Zhangjiajiexi), you will find more trains available.
Your Route Options
Choose between direct trains (limited to 3-4 trains daily) or a flexible transfer via Zhangjiajie West:
Option 1: Direct Trains (Simple but Limited Schedule)
There are 3-4 direct trains running between Chongqing and Fenghuanggucheng, using Chongqing East or Chongqing West Station in Chongqing.
| Departure Station | Arrival Station | Daily Trains | Duration | Est. Ticket Price (2nd Class) | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fenghuanggucheng | Chongqing East | 3 | 4-5 hrs | ¥250-300 | Book |
| Fenghuanggucheng | Chongqing West | 1 | 4-5 hrs | ¥250-300 | |
| Check live schedule: https://www.trip.com/trains/china/ | |||||
Live Train Schedule
| Chongqing to Fenghuanggucheng Train | Fenghuanggucheng to Chongqing Train |
| Fenghuanggucheng to Zhangjiajie Train | Zhangjiajie to Chongqing Train |
- Book Early! Direct trains sell out fast. Use Trip.com or the 12306 app (English version available).
Option 2: Transfer via Zhangjiajie West (Highly Recommended for Flexibility)
If you travel via Zhangjiajie West Station (Fenghuanggucheng – Zhangjiajie West – Chongqing), you will find more train options.
| Route Leg | Daily Trains | Duration | Est. Ticket Price (2nd Class) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fenghuanggucheng → Zhangjiajie West | Frequent | ~1 hour | ¥40-60 | Easy connection at Zhangjiajie West Station. |
| Zhangjiajie West → Chongqing | 24 | 2-4.5 hours | ¥215+ | Most frequent & flexible option. Also serves Chongqing North/West. |
| Fenghuanggucheng to Zhangjiajie Train | Zhangjiajie to Chongqing Train |
| Chongqing to Zhangjiajie Train | Zhangjiajie to Fenghuanggucheng Train |
- Why Transfer? Way more choices (24+ daily trains to Chongqing!), often similar total travel time, and avoids sold-out direct routes.
- Transfer Tip: Follow “Transfer” signs. You usually stay within the secure station area—no need to exit!
Arriving at Chongqing East Station (重庆东站)
- Opened: June 27, 2025.
- Location: Nan’an District, Chayuan New Area (南岸区茶园新区).
- Getting to Downtown (Jiefangbei / Liberation Monument):
- Metro Line 6: Direct to Xiaoshizi Station (heart of Jiefangbei). Takes ~40 minutes. (Future Lines 8, 24, 27 will also serve here).
Chongqing Rail Transit:
- Chonqging Metro official website (English version): https://www.cqmetro.cn/indexEng.html
Why Chongqing East is Great for You
- It’s the primary station for trains to/from Fenghuang & Zhangjiajie.
- Brand new facilities (opened 2025).
- Direct metro link to the city center (Jiefangbei in 40 mins).
- Gateway to Wulong: Reach the stunning Wulong Karst National Geology Park in just 34 minutes by train!
Fenghuangguheng Station to Ancient Town
Upon arriving at Fenghuanggucheng Railway Station (凤凰古城高铁站), you have several options to reach the ancient town.
1. Fenghuang Special Bus Line (Shuttle Bus)
The most recommended option is the Fenghuang Special Bus Line:
- Price: 7 CNY per person (half price for seniors and children).
- Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
- Operating Hours: 07:00 – 20:30 (subject to change).
Two routes are available:
- Route 1: Fenghuang Station to Qifeng Square Tourist Center (suitable for those staying near the middle or lower reaches of Tuo River).
- Route 2: Fenghuang Station to Nanhuali Tourist Center (ideal for those staying near the upper reaches of Tuo River).
2. Maglev Sightseeing Express
While not the most popular choice (many tourists reviewed it as not worthy), the Fenghuang Maglev Sightseeing Express is an option:
- Travel Time: 15-22 minutes.
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes.
- Price: 28 CNY per person.
This route provides scenic views of the ancient city.
3. Taxi
If you prefer a more private mode of transport, taxis are available:
- Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes.
- Note: During peak travel seasons, taxis may be in high demand, so expect longer waiting times.
Trusted Online Ticket Agents:
Option 1: Trip.com is an internatioal brand owned by Ctrip Group, China's largest online travel booking platform. Trip.com offers booking service for flight, train, hotel, activities, etc
Option 2: China Highlights is a reliable online agency for China train ticketing. They get positive reviews on TripAdvisor & Trustpilot. Sharon and her team help you buy tickets & plan rail routes even deliver tickets to your hotels with a service fee.
