Chengdu High-Speed Train (Railway) Transportation Guide
Welcome to Chengdu – a vibrant gateway to Western China, known for its pandas, spicy cuisine, and well-connected high-speed rail network. This comprehensive guide will help first-time foreign visitors navigate Chengdu’s high-speed trains and stations with confidence. You’ll learn about major stations, how to transfer to city transport, travel tips for different needs, peak time strategies, and more. Let’s get started!
Introduction: Why Chengdu’s High-Speed Rail Matters
Chengdu’s extensive high-speed rail (HSR) network makes traveling in and out of the city fast and convenient. The trains connect Chengdu to major cities like Chongqing, Xi’an, Beijing, Shanghai, Kunming, and regional attractions such as Emei Mountain and Leshan Giant Buddha. For tourists, this means you can easily reach scenic spots, business hubs, airports, and even other provinces within a few hours.
The high-speed train stations are modern, with clear bilingual signage (Chinese and English) and multiple transport links, ensuring that sightseeing spots, hotels, and even airports are just a quick ride away. Whether you plan to see the Giant Pandas, stroll down historic alleys, or hop to another city, Chengdu’s HSR network is likely the fastest way to get there.
With HSR, a journey that once took a full day by bus can be cut down to a few hours. For example, you can travel from Chengdu to Xi’an in about 3-4 hours by high-speed train, or to Emeishan (Mount Emei) in just 1-1.5 hours. This efficiency gives you more time to enjoy your trip rather than spend it on the road.
Chengdu’s Major High-Speed Railway Stations Overview
Chengdu has several railway stations, but four major stations handle most travelers: Chengdu East, Chengdu South, Chengdu West, and Chengdu Station (North). Each station serves different routes and areas of the city. Below is an overview of each, including location, main lines/destinations, and which type of traveler might prefer it:
Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站)
Location:
East side of Chengdu, in Chenghua District (approximately 10 km from city center). It’s the largest and busiest station in Chengdu. (Source: Trip.com). Tip: On maps, search for “Chengdu East Railway Station” or “成都东站”.
Routes & Destinations:
A hub for major high-speed lines connecting to Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, Xi’an, Lanzhou, Chongqing, Guiyang, Kunming, and more. It’s on the Chengdu–Chongqing HSR, Xi’an–Chengdu HSR, Chengdu–Guiyang HSR, and intercity lines to Leshan/Emei (Chengdu–Mianyang–Leshan intercity railway). Most bullet trains to other provinces depart from here.
Station Highlights:
Modern, vast departures hall with English signage and announcements. Integrated with Metro Line 2 and Line 7 (basement level). Bus terminals and taxi stands on East/West squares. Foreigner-friendly information kiosks, but can be extremely crowded during peak hours.
Who Should Use Chengdu East:
- General Tourists: Likely main station due to extensive connections.
- Business Travelers: Efficient, business lounges (ticket dependent), good Metro Line 2 connection to downtown.
- Backpackers: Cheap metro access, numerous food options, but be prepared for long walks inside the huge station.
Chengdu South Railway Station (成都南站)
Location:
South side of Chengdu, in Wuhou District (High-Tech Zone), about 7-8 km from city center, near 3rd Ring Road. (Source: Wikipedia). Search “Chengdu South Railway Station” or “成都南站”.
Routes & Destinations:
Primarily handles southbound and intercity routes. Key lines include Chengdu–Kunming Railway (to Yunnan), Chengdu–Guiyang HSR, some Chengdu–Chongqing line trains, and Chengdu–Leshan/Emei intercity trains. Good option for trips to Leshan (Giant Buddha) or Mount Emei.
Station Highlights:
Smaller than East, but modern. Served by Metro Line 1 and Line 7, offering excellent connectivity to downtown (Tianfu Square) and other lines. Clear English signage. Taxis/ride-hailing available. Less crowded than East, but fewer waiting hall services.
Who Should Use Chengdu South:
- Travelers to Southern Sichuan/Yunnan: Convenient for Leshan, Emei Mountain, Kunming, Guiyang.
- Business Travelers: Closer to High-Tech Zone offices/hotels. Relatively near Shuangliu Airport (CTU).
- Family Travelers: Easier to navigate and less overwhelming than East. Good accessibility with elevators/escalators.
Chengdu West Railway Station (成都西站)
Location:
West side of the city, in Qingyang District, near 2nd Ring Road (about 10 km west of city center). Near Wenjiang and Chengdu High-Tech West Zone. Search “Chengdu West Railway Station” or “成都西站”.
Routes & Destinations:
Focuses on regional routes. Main lines: Chengdu–Pujiang Intercity Railway and West Ring Railway. Destinations include Dujiangyan (irrigation system), Qingcheng Mountain (Taoist mountain), Ya’an (gateway to Tibetan Sichuan), Pujian/Pujiang. Some Kunming trains may stop. Primarily for day trips around Chengdu.
Station Highlights:
Connected by Metro Line 4 (east-west through city) and Metro Line 9 (loop). Easy metro access from downtown (Line 4 stops near Wide and Narrow Alley). Buses/taxis available. Smaller, potentially fewer English-speaking staff, but basic English signage present. Generally less crowded, except for weekend day-trippers.
Who Should Use Chengdu West:
- Tourists visiting Dujiangyan/Qingcheng Mountain: Quick HSR option (30-60 min rides) for these popular day trips.
- Travelers headed to towns west of Chengdu: For destinations like Ya’an, Qionglai.
- Avoid for cross-country travel: Most long-distance travelers use East/South. Only use if your ticket specifically says “Chengdu West (成都西)”.
Chengdu Station (成都站, a.k.a. Chengdu North Railway Station)
Location:
North of the city center, in Jinniu District. Locals often call it “Chengdu HuoCheBeiZhan” (North Station). About 4-5 km north of Tianfu Square. Search “Chengdu Railway Station” or “成都站”.
Routes & Status: Important
Historically served non-HSR trains (including to Tibet) and some intercity lines.
Station Highlights (Future):
Expected to be modernized upon reopening. Currently, travelers won't use it. Metro Line 1 and Line 7 still stop near the old station area ("Chengdu North Railway Station" metro stop). A long-distance bus station is nearby.
Who Should Use Chengdu Station:
- Not applicable for now: Tourists should use East, South, or West based on their tickets.
- If you accidentally go: You'll find a construction site. Head to the station specified on your ticket (likely East or South). Taxi drivers/hotel staff know about the closure.
Note: Smaller stops like Chengdu Xipu exist but are rarely used by long-distance travelers. Focus on East, South, and West.
Getting from High-Speed Rail Stations to Chengdu City (Transport Connections & Transfers)
Each major station is well-connected via metro (subway), buses, taxis, and airport shuttles. Here’s how to reach key spots like Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli Street, Chunxi Road, the Panda Base, and the airports (Shuangliu CTU and Tianfu TFU).
Chengdu East Station – City Transfers
By Metro: Line 2 (Blue) & Line 7 (Purple Loop)
- To City Center (Tianfu Square / Chunxi Road): Take Line 2 (towards Xipu). Direct to Chunxi Road (~20 mins, 7-8 stops) or Tianfu Square. No transfers needed.
- To Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alleys):
- Option 1 (Simpler): Line 2 to People’s Park (人民公园), Exit D1, walk ~10 mins.
- Option 2 (Direct Stop, More Transfers): Requires transfers involving Line 2, 3, and 4 to reach Wide and Narrow Alley Station (Kuanzhaixiangzi Alleys) on Line 4.
- To Jinli Street (near Wuhou Shrine): Line 2 to Chunxi Road, transfer to Line 3, get off at Gaoshengqiao (高升桥), Exit A, walk ~10 mins.
- To Panda Base: Not directly reachable by metro. Easiest: Taxi or DiDi (~30-40 mins, ~¥40). Public Transport: Complex transfers involving Line 7/2 -> Line 3 -> Bus 198/655 from Panda Avenue.
By Airport Shuttle/Metro:
- To Tianfu Airport (TFU): Direct Airport Bus Line 1 from East Station West Square (~every 20 mins, 06:00–23:30).
- To Shuangliu Airport (CTU): Metro: Line 7 to Taipingyuan, transfer to Line 10 direct to CTU terminals (~1 hour). Taxi: ~30-40 mins.
By Bus:
Many routes available (e.g., Bus 4, 47, 71). Metro or taxi generally easier for foreigners due to language barriers on buses.
By Taxi / Ride-Hailing (DiDi):
Official taxi queue at West Square. Avoid touts. Metered fare to downtown ~¥30–40. DiDi app works in English; pickup usually at West Square designated area.
English Support:
Good at station (signs, announcements). Metro is fully bilingual. Buses have limited English. Taxi drivers usually don't speak English (use app/address note).
Chengdu South Station – City Transfers
By Metro: Line 1 (Red) & Line 7 (Purple Loop)
- To City Center (Tianfu Square): Take Line 1 northbound (towards Shengxian Lake). Direct to Tianfu Square (~15 mins, 5-6 stops).
- To Chunxi Road: Line 1 to Tianfu Square, transfer to Line 2 (1 stop).
- To Kuanzhai Alley: Take Line 1 north to Tianfu Square, transfer to Line 2 west to People's Park, walk ~10 mins. Or multiple transfers via Line 7/other lines. Taxi from Tianfu Square might be simpler.
- To Jinli Street: Line 1 north to Sichuan Gymnasium, transfer to Line 3 to Gaoshengqiao, walk ~10 mins.
- To Panda Base: Easiest: Taxi or DiDi (~50 mins). Public transport requires multiple complex transfers.
By Airport Connections:
- To Shuangliu Airport (CTU): Very convenient. Take Line 7 one stop to Huaxing, transfer to Line 10 direct to CTU. Taxi is also quick (~12 km).
- To Tianfu Airport (TFU): Line 7 to Huaxing, transfer to Line 19 (if operational) direct to TFU. Alternatively, Taxi (~50 km, ~¥150) or airport bus from nearby downtown stop.
By Bus:
Routes like 16, 76, 99 serve the station. Bus 57 nearby goes towards Wuhou Shrine/Jinli. Metro/taxi still recommended for ease.
By Taxi / Ride-Hailing (DiDi):
Taxis readily available. Ride to Kuanzhai/Jinli ~¥30. DiDi pickup at designated zones, often easier to find driver than at East Station.
English Support:
Good bilingual signs/metro announcements. Staff less accustomed to foreigners than at East, but manageable. Use hotel address cards for taxis.
Chengdu West Station – City Transfers
By Metro: Line 4 (Green) & Line 9 (Brown Loop)
- To City Center (Tianfu Square): Line 4 east to Luomashi, transfer to Line 1 south (1 stop) to Tianfu Square (~30 mins total).
- To Kuanzhai Alley: Very convenient! Take Line 4 east directly to Kuanzhaixiangzi Alleys Station (宽窄巷子) (~20 mins, 7 stops).
- To Jinli Street: Line 4 east to Luomashi, transfer to Line 3 south to Gaoshengqiao, walk ~10 mins (~40 mins total).
- To Chunxi Road: Line 4 east to Luomashi, transfer to Line 1 south to Tianfu Square, transfer to Line 2 east (1 stop) to Chunxi Road.
- To Panda Base: Far away. Best option: Taxi or DiDi. Public transport involves many transfers and is not practical.
By Airport Connections:
- To Shuangliu Airport (CTU): Taxi (~20km, ~¥60) is simplest. Metro involves multiple transfers (e.g., Line 9 -> transfer -> Line 10). Potentially catch T2 Airport Shuttle Bus Line 2 near Cultural Palace station (reached via Line 4).
- To Tianfu Airport (TFU): Very far. Taxi (~50km+) or complex metro hopping (e.g., Line 9 to connect to Line 18/19 if possible, or go to East Station first for shuttle). Plan significant extra time.
By Bus:
Serves local western areas. Metro Line 4 is more useful for tourists.
By Taxi / Ride-Hailing (DiDi):
Fewer waiting taxis than East/South due to lower frequency. DiDi app might be faster. Standard precautions apply.
English Support:
Bilingual signs available, fewer English-speaking staff likely. Metro Lines 4/9 are bilingual. Surrounding area less touristy.
Additional Transfer Tips (All Stations)
- Metro Hours: Approx. 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM (check specific lines). Late arrivals/departures need taxis/DiDi.
- Metro Tickets: Vending machines have English menus. Alipay/WeChat Pay QR scan or NFC may work. Fares ¥2-9.
- Bus Payment: Exact cash (¥2) or transport card. Some may accept Alipay/WeChat (local accounts).
- Luggage: Allowed on metro (security check) and buses. Avoid peak hours with large suitcases if possible.
- Signage Summary: Railway stations & Metro = Good English. Bus stops = Pinyin/some English landmarks. Ask younger locals or use translation apps if unsure.
Personalized Transportation Suggestions for Different Travelers
For Business Travelers
Priority: Efficiency and comfort.
- Station Choice: Chengdu East (most options) or South (if near High-Tech Zone). Consider First/Business class for lounge access.
- Transfers: Taxis or DiDi (English app available, can link international cards, request larger/premium cars, potentially English-speaking driver option) offer door-to-door convenience, saving time unless it's peak traffic.
- Metro Use: Consider metro during heavy rush hour (e.g., 8 AM, 6 PM) for predictable travel times, especially for longer distances across the city (e.g., Chunxi Road to East Station).
- Facilities: VIP lounges at East/South (check eligibility). Charging stations widely available.
- Time Buffer: Arrive at station at least 30-60 minutes before departure due to station size and procedures.
For Family Travelers (with Kids or Seniors)
Priority: Convenience, comfort with luggage/strollers, safety, accessibility.
- Station Choice: East and South are accessible with elevators/escalators. Choose based on convenience to accommodation/destination to minimize transfers.
- Metro vs Taxi: Metro is stroller-friendly (use wider access gates, look for elevators) but can be crowded. Taxis/DiDi (order larger vehicle if needed) better off-peak or with lots of luggage.
- Car Seats: Not provided in taxis/DiDi. Bring your own portable solution if concerned.
- Station Facilities: Look for Mother-Baby rooms (婴儿护理室), accessible restrooms, elevators. Ask staff for assistance if needed. Luggage trolleys available.
- Safety: Keep close watch on children and belongings in crowded stations/trains. Have a meeting point plan.
- Metro Tips: Use priority seats (politely ask if needed:
“不好意思，能让一下座位吗?”).
For Backpackers and Budget Travelers
Priority: Low cost, local experience.
- Metro/Bus Focus: Utilize the cheap and extensive Metro system (¥2-9). Buses (¥2 flat) are even cheaper but slower and require more navigation effort.
- Walking/Cycling: Chengdu is walkable for shorter distances. Shared bikes are available but often require local payment apps (Alipay/WeChat).
- Cheapest Routes: E.g., To Panda Base: Metro Line 3 to Panda Avenue station, then free shuttle/public bus. To Leshan/Emei: High-speed train from East/South, then local buses.
- Overnighting: Sleeping in stations not recommended (uncomfortable, security checks). Find 24hr cafes nearby or budget hostels.
- Language/Navigation: Learn basic phrases (see below). Use translation apps (Google/Baidu Translate with offline packs) and offline maps (Baidu Maps recommended over Google Maps in China).
- Connectivity: Consider a local SIM or pocket WiFi for navigation and communication, which can save time and money indirectly.
Traffic Conditions During Peak Periods & Special Times
Chengdu City Rush Hours (Weekly)
Weekday Peaks: Roughly 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM (Mon-Fri).
- Road Traffic: Very heavy on ring roads and downtown. Taxis will be slow. Metro is often faster.
- Metro Crowding: Lines 1, 2, 7 can be packed. Allow extra time, consider boarding end cars. Trains are frequent (2-3 mins).
- Buses: Slow and crowded. Avoid if possible during peak.
Weekend Traffic: No commuter rush, but busy around shopping areas (Sat midday) and Sunday evenings.
Travel Peak Seasons & Holidays
Major holidays mean extremely busy trains and stations. Book tickets well in advance (up to 15 days)!
- Chinese New Year (Spring Festival, Jan/Feb): China's biggest travel rush (Chunyun). Stations extremely crowded. Arrive 1-1.5 hours early. Book tickets ASAP.
- Golden Week (Oct 1-7): Very busy tourist travel. Book ahead. Tourist sites crowded.
- Summer Holidays (July–August): Busy with family travel. Stations busy, especially weekends. Rainy season can cause occasional delays.
- Other Holidays (Labor Day May 1, Mid-Autumn, Dragon Boat): Spikes in travel. Book early.
Dealing with Peak Crowds and Delays
- Plan Extra Time: Arrive earlier for trains/flights during peak periods.
- Advance Booking: Crucial for holiday train travel.
- Station Navigation: Follow signs/staff during extreme crowds. Keep ID/passport and ticket handy.
- Peak Traffic Hacks: Use metro to bypass road jams. Use real-time map apps (Baidu Maps) to check congestion.
- Avoiding Tourist Crowds: Visit attractions like Panda Base or Kuanzhai Alley early on weekdays.
- Weather Preparedness: Carry umbrella/raincoat in summer. Allow extra travel time during heavy rain.
Despite crowds, systems are generally well-organized. Patience is key.
Comparing Transportation Options: Price, Time & Comfort
| Mode | Price (approx RMB) | Time Efficiency | Comfort & Convenience | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro (Subway) | ¥2 – ¥9 | Fast (no traffic delays) | Good A/C, crowded peak hours, accessible stations | English support, ~6AM–11:30PM |
| City Bus | ¥2 (Airport buses ¥10-15) | Moderate (traffic dependent) | Can be crowded, minimal English, no luggage racks | Cheap, wide coverage, slow in traffic |
| Taxi | ¥10 flag + ~¥2/km (e.g., ¥30-40 East to downtown) | Variable (traffic dependent) | Private, door-to-door, A/C | Use meter, have address in Chinese, night surcharge |
| Ride-Hailing (DiDi) | Similar/slightly higher than taxi, upfront fare | Variable (traffic dependent) | Choose service level, English app aids communication | Needs app/data, pay via app (int'l card ok) |
| Walking | Free | Slow for long distances | Healthy, immersive, weather dependent | Good sidewalks, use pedestrian bridges |
| Bicycle (Share-bike) | ~¥1 per 15-30 min | Good for short hops | Navigate small lanes, no luggage, no helmets | Needs app (Alipay/WeChat), watch traffic |
| Airport Shuttle | ¥10 – ¥20 | Decent (highway use, but traffic possible) | Comfortable coach, luggage space | Specific routes (e.g., East Station to TFU) |
| Private Transfer | ¥150+ | Variable (traffic dependent) | High comfort, meet-and-greet | Pre-book via hotel/apps |
Payment Methods for Foreign Tourists
Widely Accepted / Recommended
- Cash (RMB): Always accepted (metro machines, buses - exact change, taxis). Carry small bills/coins.
- Alipay (International Version): Link foreign Visa/MasterCard etc. Use QR codes for metro, shops, taxis. Requires app setup & verification.
- WeChat Pay (with Foreign Cards): Link foreign Visa/MasterCard etc. (as of July 2023+). Widely used for everything. May have small transaction fee waiver under ¥200. Requires app setup & verification.
Less Common / Other Options
- International Credit/Debit Cards (Visa/MC): NOT widely accepted directly at metro machines or in taxis. May work within Alipay/WeChat Pay or DiDi app.
- UnionPay Cards: Work everywhere if you have one (issued by Chinese banks or some international banks).
- 12306 Railway App/Website: Accepts Alipay/WeChat Pay. Can sometimes accept foreign cards directly (via website portal usually easier) but may have issues. Agents like Trip.com accept foreign cards easily.
- DiDi App: Directly accepts linked international credit cards for ride payments.
Useful Chinese Phrases for Transportation
- “我要去 [Place Name]。” (
Wǒ yào qù [Place Name].) – “I want to go to [Place Name].”
Examples: 成都东站 (Chéngdū Dōngzhàn- East Station), 宽窄巷子 (Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi- Kuanzhai Alley), 熊猫基地 (Xióngmāo Jīdì- Panda Base) - “地铁站在哪儿？” (
Dìtiě zhàn zài nǎr?) – “Where is the metro station?” - “这趟地铁到 [Station Name] 吗？” (
Zhè tàng dìtiě dào [Station Name] ma?) – “Does this metro go to [Station Name]?” - “请问 [Place Name] 怎么走？” (
Qǐngwèn [Place Name] zěnme zǒu?) – “Excuse me, how do I get to [Place Name]?” - “在这里停车。” (
Zài zhèlǐ tíngchē.) – “Stop here.” (For taxis/DiDi) - “多少钱？” (
Duōshao qián?) – “How much money?” - “会英语吗?” (
Huì Yīngyǔ ma?) – “Do you speak English?” - “谢谢” (
Xièxie) – “Thank you.” - “不好意思” (
Bùhǎoyìsi) – “Excuse me / Sorry (to trouble you).” - Numbers 1-10: 一 (
yī), 二 (èr)/两 (liǎng), 三 (sān), 四 (sì), 五 (wǔ), 六 (liù), 七 (qī), 八 (bā), 九 (jiǔ), 十 (shí).
Recommended Apps for Transportation and Navigation
DiDi Chuxing (滴滴出行)
China's primary ride-hailing app. Use the international version ("DiDi"). English interface available. Link international credit card or WeChat/Alipay for payment. In-app chat translation helps communicate with drivers.
Baidu Maps (百度地图)
Best map app for China. Primarily Chinese interface, but English place search often works. Shows accurate metro/bus routes, real-time info, walking/biking directions. Essential for navigation. (Amap/Gaode Maps is an alternative).
Google Maps has limited functionality (no transit/walking directions) in China without VPN.Railway 12306 (铁路12306)
Official China Railway app/website. Has an English version, but registration/payment can be tricky for foreigners. Needed for direct booking without agent fees. Payment easiest via linked Alipay/WeChat Pay. Passport often acts as e-ticket.
Agents like Trip.com/TravelChinaGuide offer easier English booking with a small fee.Translation Apps (Google/Baidu Translate)
Essential for communication. Download offline language packs. Use text, voice, and especially photo translation (point camera at signs/menus).
WeChat (微信)
Beyond payment, it's a super-app. Use for messaging (with translation), scanning QR codes for various services (bikes, some payments), accessing mini-programs (maps, booking). Essential if you get it working.
Special Situations & Troubleshooting
“打表 dǎbiǎo”) in taxis.Hot Summer: Stay hydrated. Utilize A/C in metro/stations.
Winter: Damp cold, dress in layers. Fog might occasionally affect flights/highways.
Additional Practical Tips & Safety Advice
- Buying Tickets at Station: Look for English service window if available. Have passport ready. Pay cash. Show destination name in Chinese/Pinyin.
- In-Station Navigation: Follow signs to waiting room for your train number. Boarding starts ~15 mins prior. Use passport/ticket at gate. Allow time to reach platform.
- Inside High-Speed Trains: Power outlets available. Snack cart and toilets onboard (bring tissues). Bilingual announcements.
- Taxis: Hailing vs Apps: Hailing possible downtown, but DiDi app is more reliable, especially during peak times/bad weather.
- Tipping: Not expected in China for taxis, restaurants, hotels (except maybe bellboys accepting small token). Porters have set fees.
- Police Presence: Visible police/security is normal for safety. Approach them if help needed (use translator).
- Health & Sanitation: Temperature checks possible. Carry mask/hand sanitizer. Station restrooms usually have soap.
- Line Etiquette: Queueing is expected, though can be less rigid. Let passengers exit metro first.
- App Safety: Verify driver/car details in DiDi. Use safety features like trip sharing.
- Digital Addresses: Keep screenshots of hotel/destinations in Chinese on your phone to show people.
Enjoy Your Journey!
Chengdu locals are known for being warm and laid-back. While stations are busy, embrace the experience. If overwhelmed, find a tea house or cafe to relax. Travel is about the journey as much as the destination.
Welcome to Chengdu and safe travels!
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