The World's Largest Train Station Is A High-Tech, High-Speed Rail Hub That's Truly Massive

You just cannot ignore China when it comes to transformational public works. From building one of the world's most amazing bridges to being among the five countries with the largest high-speed rail systems, China is not slowing down anytime soon. Perhaps most impressive of all, Chongqing East Railway Station in southwest China occupies the position of the world's largest train station by total size. It was officially opened in June 2025 and extends across an astonishing 13 million square feet (170 football fields). Compared with Grand Central in New York City, Chongqing's station is more than five times larger. 

The station is located in Chongqing's Nan'an District, one of the biggest areas in China. With 15 platforms and 29 tracks, the station was built to handle large volumes of passengers — up to 16,000 per hour during peak periods. The station is a major focal point of China's ever-expanding high-speed rail system. Trains leaving from Chongqing East Railway Station can connect travelers to other major cities like Chengdu in about an hour, Wuhan in three hours, and Beijing or Shanghai in roughly six hours. These travel times not only show how the station fits into China's nationwide high-speed rail network but also highlight Chongqing's growing importance as a key transportation center.

Chongqing East Railway Station was designed to be easy to use, not overwhelming, despite its size. The terminal features expansive footpaths, clear directional signs (with English translations), and large open spaces with natural light. These design elements are meant to help passengers move through the massive building without too much stress. There are also a host of dining options, from fast-food staples like McDonald's to local specialties like spicy Szechuan Chongqing noodles. The station functions as a central gateway for long-distance travel across China, a multimodal transportation point where travelers can easily transfer between high-speed rail, local trains, buses, and subway lines without leaving the station complex. It also has a direct line to Chongqing's Jiangbei International Airport (CKG).

This kind of integration is part of China's broader approach to building "station-city" developments, where major transport centers support surrounding businesses and residential areas. And in practical terms, Chongqing East Railway Station shows how modern train stations are evolving with huge capacity, advanced rail technology, and thoughtful urban planning. It's a perfect example of how large-scale infrastructure can reshape how people move between cities. If you're ever transiting through Chongqing East Railway Station, make sure you pop into the city to explore. The railway station isn't the only record-breaking marvel. Chongqing is also home to the world's tallest and fastest roller coaster, the world's largest hot pot restaurant with 900 tables, and holds the Guinness World Record for the largest aerial display ever created by multi-rotors and drones.