Crown Escalator is located in Yuzhong District, Chongqing. It is a distinctive transport facility that embodies the unique mountainous character of the city. The escalator has a total length of 112 meters, a width of 1.3 meters, a vertical rise of 52.7 meters, an inclination of 30 degrees, and an operating speed of 0.75 meters per second, with the full ride taking about 2 minutes and 30 seconds. It consists of three escalator units: an upward unit, a downward unit, and a backup unit. Its one?way maximum passenger capacity is 13,000 persons per hour, making it the second?longest single?rise slope escalator in Asia. The Crown Enterprise Building, in which it is housed, covers a site area of 3,036 square meters and has a total floor area of 34,810 square meters.
History and Culture
The construction of Crown Escalator was closely tied to the special topography of Chongqing as a "mountain city." In the early 1990s, the area from Lianglukou to Caiyuanba in Yuzhong District was extremely steep (with a vertical drop of over 50 meters) and was connected only by stone steps and small ramps, making travel and goods transport very difficult for residents. The growing passenger flow at Caiyuanba Railway Station (then an important railway hub in Chongqing) further exacerbated traffic congestion in the area. To solve this public livelihood problem, the municipal planning department proposed building a "large?scale slope escalator" to shorten travel time between the two areas through vertical transport and improve local traffic conditions.
Construction of Crown Escalator began in February 1993 and was completed and put into operation on February 18, 1996. It is not only a transport facility but also carries the city’s memories and cultural character, attracting many tourists who come to experience it. It has become a popular check?in spot in Chongqing tourism.
Main Attraction
Crown Escalator consists of an upward and a downward unit, connecting Caiyuanba Station and Lianglukou Station. The one?way ride takes about 2 minutes and 30 seconds. During the ride, visitors can enjoy views of the mountain?city streetscape outside. The strong visual contrast in height and the relatively long ride create a unique experience distinct from ordinary elevators. It is also a filming location for the movie Better Days.
Suggested Itinerary：
Visitors can first arrive at Crown Escalator in Yuzhong District, Chongqing, and enjoy the fun of riding it while experiencing the city’s unique mountain transport. After the ride, they can stroll along the streets around the Crown Enterprise Building and try local delicacies such as Chongqing small noodles (xiaomian) and sour?spicy noodles (suanlafen). Then they can walk along the nearby streets to appreciate Chongqing’s cityscape and distinctive architecture, soaking in the city’s atmosphere. If time permits, they may also visit other nearby attractions.
Travel Tips：
Try to avoid the morning and evening rush hours when riding the escalator to prevent crowding and ensure a better experience.
Pay attention to safety while riding—stand firmly and hold the handrail, and take good care of the elderly and children.
When trying local food, sample specialties from different shops to enjoy the diverse flavors of Chongqing cuisine.
If taking photos, be careful not to disturb other passengers and comply with the scenic area’s regulations.
Important Notices：
The escalator operates at a relatively fast speed; please pay attention to your own safety and do not run or play on the escalator.
Keep your personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas, to prevent loss.
Respect local customs and other passengers, and ride the escalator in a civilized manner.
In case of escalator malfunction or other emergencies, follow the instructions of the staff and remain calm.
Transportation：
Bus: Take relevant bus routes to Lianglukou Station, then walk to Crown Escalator.
Metro: Take Metro Line 1 or Line 3 to Lianglukou Station, and exit from the corresponding exit to find Crown Escalator.
Driving: Self?driving visitors can follow navigation directions; parking is available in nearby lots, but please observe local traffic rules and parking regulations.
Opening Hours：
Crown Escalator is open from 06:10 to 22:30. Visitors may ride during this time period.
Tickets：
The one?way fare is 2 RMB. Payment can be made in cash, with the local transport card, or via mobile payment methods.