Chongqing’s Panda Monorail: A Fun Ride Filipinos Will Love

If you think public transport is boring, Chongqing’s panda-themed monorail is here to prove you wrong. This new attraction in southwest China is more than just a ride; it’s a full-on travel experience.

With scenic views, panda-themed interiors, and cutting-edge technology, it’s one of the most exciting ways to explore the vibrant city of Chongqing, especially for Filipino travellers looking for something new and unforgettable.

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Meet Chongqing: China’s “8D Magic City”

Image credit: Xi's Moments Official Facebook Page

Chongqing is no ordinary city. Often called China’s “8D Magic City,” this megacity is renowned for its distinctive landscape of hills, rivers, and high-rise buildings stacked at various levels. Roads curve around buildings, trains pass through apartment blocks, and everything seems to defy traditional urban planning. For adventurous travellers from the Philippines, Chongqing offers a unique blend of urban exploration and cultural charm.

Now, the city has added something even more magical to its public transport network, a panda-themed straddle-type monorail, the first of its kind in China, launched on June 18, 2025. Whether you're visiting with friends or on a solo trip, this monorail makes travelling through the city feel like stepping into a theme park.

Step into the panda universe

Image credit: China Report ASEAN Official Facebook Page

You’ll spot the train immediately by its eye-catching design. The exterior features a large panda face drawn with bold black lines, along with panoramic windows and a skylight that lets you admire Chongqing’s bridges, mountain ranges, and skyscrapers as you ride.

Inside, the train is fully panda-themed. Expect panda-shaped leather seats, hand grips shaped like panda heads, and souvenir cabinets designed like pandas. At the centre of each carriage stands a giant 1.5-metre plush panda, the ultimate photo spot for travellers.

This playful design isn’t just for kids. It’s a fun and immersive experience for all ages, combining cute aesthetics with stunning views of the city.

The smart tech behind the cuteness

Image credit: Xi's Moments Official Facebook Page

While the panda theme is a visual treat, the monorail’s real magic lies in its smart features. The train is fitted with intelligent lighting, temperature-controlled smart windows, wireless charging ports, and magnetic assistive listening devices. It offers a smooth, comfortable, and connected ride, ideal for modern-day travellers.

The monorail runs on Chongqing’s next-generation monorail platform, built with over 20 years of transit data. It’s also designed with energy-efficient features like permanent magnet traction motors and smart air conditioning, reducing power consumption and improving environmental sustainability.

One of its most advanced features is the digital twin system, which is a virtual replica of the train used to monitor performance, identify issues, and extend the train’s life cycle. All of this means better efficiency and more reliability for passengers.

Why Filipino travellers will love it

Image credit: Xi's Moments Official Facebook Page

If you’re planning a trip to China from the Philippines, the Chongqing panda monorail is a must-try experience. Not only is it unique and picture-perfect, but it also makes getting around the city incredibly easy and affordable. For travellers on a budget, it’s a scenic alternative to pricey city tours.

The train connects you to some of the most exciting spots in the city, like Liziba Station, where the train famously passes through a residential building, as well as Eling Park, Nanbin Road, and Ciqikou Ancient Town, all of which are perfect for day trips.

It’s also family-friendly, stroller-accessible, and a great way to experience Chongqing from a different angle. Whether you’re travelling for fun, content creation, or just to explore a different side of China, this ride is one of those things that feels special from start to finish.

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Final thoughts

Public transport is rarely the highlight of a trip, but Chongqing’s panda-themed monorail changes that. It’s fun, futuristic, and totally unlike anything else in Asia. For Filipino travellers looking for something different, it’s a perfect mix of charm, tech, and urban exploration.

So next time you’re planning a trip to China, don’t just pass through Chongqing. Make sure you ride the panda train. It’s more than a way to get around. It’s a destination in itself.