If you’ve seen a video of Chongqing on TikTok or Instagram, it was likely a clip of a sleek monorail train “disappearing” into the side of a massive apartment building. This is Liziba Station, an engineering marvel where the CRT Line 2 passes directly through the 6th to 8th floors of a 19-story residential high-rise.

While it looks like a glitch in a video game, it is a real-life solution to Chongqing’s vertical terrain. However, because it is the city’s #1 attraction, the official viewing platform is often packed with thousands of tourists.

Here is how to experience Liziba like a pro and get the perfect shot from angles most tourists never find.

The Secret Viewpoint: Lansheng Pavilion (揽胜亭)

The official viewing platform is at ground level, directly across the street. While it’s great for looking up, it is incredibly crowded. For a panoramic, elevated view of the train entering and exiting the building with the Jialing River in the background, head to Lansheng Pavilion.

• Why it’s better: It’s located higher up in the residential alleys of Xindu Alley (新都巷). You get a side-on perspective that captures the scale of the building and the river simultaneously.
• How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 or 3 to Niujiaotuo Station, exit from Exit 1, and walk up the Xindu Alley Trail. It is a short, steep climb, but the lack of crowds makes it worth it.

Photography Tips for the Viral Shot

1. The “Train Swallowing” Pose

The most popular creative shot involves standing on the ground-level platform and posing as if you are “swallowing” the train or pinching it with your fingers as it enters the building.

• Pro Tip: Use Burst Mode on your phone. The trains run every 2 to 4 minutes, so you have plenty of chances to time it perfectly.

2. Timing the Light

• Golden Hour: Visit between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM for soft, golden side-lighting that makes the building’s architecture pop.
• Blue Hour/Night: After 7:30 PM, the building and the train’s headlights glow against the dark sky, creating a moody, cyberpunk aesthetic.

3. The “Front Row” Experience

Don’t just watch the train; ride it! Take Line 2 from Zengjiayan Station towards Liziba. Try to stand at the very front or back window of the train. The sensation of hurtling toward a solid wall and then suddenly being inside a building is one of the most unique “roller coaster” commutes in the world.

Essential Liziba Logistics

• Cost: Free admission to all viewing platforms.
• Hours: Trains run from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
• Avoid Rush Hour: Stay away between 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM to avoid the crush of local commuters.
• Navigation: Enter “Liziba Station” (李子坝站) into Amap for the most accurate walking directions.

Nearby: What to Do After the Shot

Liziba is located at the base of a steep cliff. Once you are finished, don’t just leave the area:

• Testbed 2 (Eling Factory): Walk 15 minutes uphill (or take a quick Didi) to this trendy, industrial-chic arts district filled with coffee shops and graffiti.

• Liziba Old Street: Located right next to the station, these nostalgic alleys are perfect for hunting local snacks like Liangshan Chicken.

If you want a deeper look at what Chongqing offers culturally and historically, our 2026 Chongqing Travel Guide provides a complete overview of the city’s main sights and experiences.