The lively capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is well known for its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and, of course, its cute pandas. Should you be coming into this busy city, your most probable arrival will be at the new Chengdu Tianfu Airport. But how do you travel from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to the city center? Whether you want a fast and inexpensive ride or a more comfortable, direct route to your location, this guide will lead you through all the finest possibilities.

Chengdu Tianfu Airport Opening

Opened in 2021, Chengdu Tianfu Airport sits roughly 50 kilometers southeast of Chengdu’s city center. Designed to handle millions of passengers annually, it’s a modern and large airport.

Given Chengdu’s rapid rise to one of China’s top travel spots, especially if you’re on a limited time or traveling with a lot of baggage, knowing the ideal routes from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to city center is crucial. Knowing the available transportation choices will help you to arrive in Chengdu much more smoothly whether your destination is your hotel, a day of sightseeing, or simply a major transport hub such as Chengdu East Railway Station.

Let us explore the specifics of the most common methods of transportation from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to city center.

Option 1: Taxi

Travel Time: 40–50 minutes Cost: ¥120–¥150 ($16–$21) Convenience: High

When going from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to city center, taxis are the most simple and convenient choice. Taxis are your best choice if you have a lot of baggage or just want a more private, direct transfer. Their door-to-door service eliminates the need for transfers or public transportation navigation.

Chengdu Tianfu Airport Taxi Finding Places

Once you pass customs and enter the arrival hall, you will see a specific taxi line. The airport features a well-structured system and personnel to direct you to the appropriate taxi stand. Simply follow the signs and search for the official taxi line. Your ticket will show your destination; the meter will determine the fare.

Price and Time

Usually, a taxi ride from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to city center costs between ¥120 and ¥150 ($16–$21), depending on traffic and your precise location. Though this can change depending on the hour, the trip normally takes roughly 40 to 50 minutes. Compared to other major Chinese cities, taxi rates in Chengdu are fairly reasonable.

You might experience some delays, though, during rush hour or on days with significant traffic, so it’s best to allow additional time.

Advice on Taxi Use

Use metered official taxis. Steer clear of unlicensed drivers who might approach you with offers outside the airport.
Make sure the driver starts the meter right away upon your entry.
If you don’t speak Mandarin, it helps to have the name and address of your hotel written in Chinese.

Option 2: Shuttle Bus

With its fleet of shuttle buses, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport guarantees easy access to the city center and other notable locations for travelers. Operating 24 hours, these buses offer flexibility for night owls as well as early risers.

Shuttle Bus Line 1: Airport to Chunxi Road and Chengdu East Railway Station

Route: This line connects Tianfu Airport to two major city spots:cd.ie-expo.com
- Chunxi Road: A shopper’s paradise, bustling with boutiques, eateries, and the iconic Panda Sculpture at Chengdu International Finance Square (IFS).
- Chengdu East Railway Station: A pivotal hub for high-speed trains connecting various parts of China.
Operating Hours:
- Tianfu Airport to Chengdu East Railway Station: First bus departs at 6:00 AM; last bus at 11:30 PM.
- Chengdu East Railway Station to Tianfu Airport: First bus departs at 6:00 AM; last bus at 11:30 PM.
Frequency: Buses depart every 20-30 minutes during peak hours; every 15-30 minutes during off-peak hours.
Fare: RMB 15 during the day (6:00 AM to 11:30 PM); RMB 25 during nighttime (11:30 PM to 6:00 AM).
Pick-up Points:
- Tianfu Airport: Outside Gate G01 of Terminal 1 and Gate G03 of Terminal 2 on the ground level.
- Chunxi Road: Near the Panda Sculpture at Chengdu IFS.
- Chengdu East Railway Station: West Square Bus Station.
Shuttle Bus Line 2: Airport to Jinsha Transport Hub Station

Operating Hours: 24 hours, with buses departing every 30 minutes during peak times and less frequently at night.
Fare: RMB 15 during the day; RMB 25 at night.
Pick-up Points:
- Tianfu Airport: Outside Gate G01 of Terminal 1 and Gate G03 of Terminal 2 on the ground level.
- Jinsha Transport Hub Station: A central point connecting various bus lines.
Shuttle Bus Line 3: Airport to Chengdu Zoo Bus Station

Operating Hours: 24 hours, with scheduled departures during the day and increased frequency during peak times.Eastchinatrip
Fare: RMB 15 during the day; RMB 25 at night.
Pick-up Points:
- Tianfu Airport: Outside Gate G01 of Terminal 1 and Gate G03 of Terminal 2 on the ground level.
- Chengdu Zoo Bus Station: Adjacent to the Chengdu Zoo, a short walk from the panda enclosure.
Shuttle Bus Line 4: Airport to Global Center Station

Operating Hours: 24 hours, with buses departing every 30 minutes during peak times and less frequently at night.Eastchinatrip
Fare: RMB 15 during the day; RMB 25 at night.
Pick-up Points:
- Tianfu Airport: Outside Gate G01 of Terminal 1 and Gate G03 of Terminal 2 on the ground level.
- Global Center Station: Near the New Century Global Center, the world’s largest building by floor area.
Shuttle Bus Line 5: Airport to Shuangliu International Airport

Operating Hours: 24 hours, with buses departing every 30 minutes during peak times and less frequently at night.
Fare: RMB 15 during the day; RMB 25 at night.
Pick-up Points:
- Tianfu Airport: Outside Gate G01 of Terminal 1 and Gate G03 of Terminal 2 on the ground level.
- Shuangliu International Airport: Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Note: Buses run less often during night hours and may depart as soon as they are full. Always check the latest scheduleupon arrival.

Option 3: Via Metro

Travel Time: 40–50 minutes Cost: ¥6–¥10 ($1–$1.50) Convenience: Moderate

Another economical and effective way to travel from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to city center is the Chengdu Metro. Chengdu Metro Line 18 connects the airport to the city, with stops at key locations along the way. For solo travelers or those who don’t mind using public transportation, this is an excellent option.

Getting to the Metro

When you land at Chengdu Tianfu Airport, follow the signs to the metro station. The metro station of the airport is on the terminal’s lower level; finding it is rather simple once you enter the airport. You may buy tickets at the counters or the ticket machines.

Price and Time

Ranging from ¥6 to ¥10 ($1–$1.50), the one-way metro trip fare is among the most affordable choices. The travel time from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to city center is around 40–50 minutes, depending on which metro stations you need to transfer at.

Benefits of Metro

The metro is modern and clean, the system is frequent, running every few minutes. For those on a budget, it’s a reasonable choice. For those with heavy luggage, though, the metro can be rather packed during peak hours, so it might not be the most comfortable choice.

Option 4: By Car Rental or Private Car

Travel Time: 40–50 minutes Cost: ¥150–¥250 ($21–$35) Convenience: High

Booking a private car or using a car rental service is a wonderful way to travel from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to city center if you want a more pleasant and private trip. This choice allows you to travel at your own speed and appreciate a more tailored experience.

Private Car Service

Ride-hailing apps like Didi let you book a private car; you can also schedule a pre-booked service at the airport. This lets you avoid public transportation and have a pleasant journey to your location.

Price and Time

Depending on the car kind and distance to your last location, a private car ride usually runs between ¥150 and ¥250($21–$35). Roughly 40 to 50 minutes, much like a cab, is the travel time.

Car Hire

Airport car rental services are accessible if you wish to rent a car and see Chengdu on your own terms. You may select from a variety of cars depending on your needs since the rental procedure is straightforward.

When to Use Rental or Private Car

Travelers who value comfort and convenience will find this choice perfect. If you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of baggage and desire a stress-free, private ride to the city center, this is ideal.

Comparison of Transportation Options

Here’s a quick comparison of all the options available to get from Chengdu Tianfu airport to city center:

Option	Travel Time	Costing	Comfort Level	Availability
Taxi	40-50 minutes	¥120-¥150 ($16-$21)	High (private, door-to-door)	Available 24/7
Airport Shuttle Bus	50-60 minutes	¥10-¥20 ($1.50-$3)	Moderate (shared, fixed route)	Limited schedule
Metro	40-50 minutes	¥6-¥10 ($1-$1.50)	Moderate (crowded at peak times)	Frequent, daily service
Private Car/Car Rental	40-50 minutes	¥150-¥250 ($21-$35)	High (comfortable, private)	Available 24/7

Mr. orange private transfer from Chengdu Shuangliu airport to City center

Why You Need Private Airport Transfer Services in Chengdu

1. Compared to Metro: Our transfer services are private and comfortable. Our drivers will hold a sign to greet you at the designated position, making everything smooth and easy.

2. Compared to Taxi Services: Our vans are comfortable, non-smoking, and our drivers dress formally and behave professionally. We provide 24/7 English-speaking customer service.

3. Compared to Airport Shuttle Buses: We offer private transfers, so you won’t need to wait for a fixed departure timetable. We’re easy-going and promise to drop you off anywhere on the Shenzhen map. Our vans have more space for you and your family, making everything smooth and easy.

You will be free of hassle for the following problems if you use Mr Orange transfer service:

What if my flight is delayed?

We stay on track with your flight status by confirming your boarding information with the airline one hour after your scheduled departure. Using a cell app, our operations staff and guide double-check the arrival time on the arrival day with real-time flight tracking. Our guide will be at the terminal 10 minutes before your arrival time, and it will take a minimum of 30 minutes to 1 hour after arrival to clear customs and collect your luggage.

What happens if my flight arrives early or late?

If your flight arrives before 6am or after 10pm, we offer a driver transfer service. Our experienced drivers speak some English, and to ensure smooth communication, they carry a bilingual instruction paper with questions and answers in both Chinese and English. If you need further assistance, our emergency contact can provide translator support. We will do our best to resolve any issues on the spot.

What should I do if my China visa expires?

If your China visa is about to expire, don’t panic. Inform us and ask your guide to take you to the Local Entry and Exit Administration Bureau to extend your visa. Our local office in Beijing can provide a document proving your status as a tourist and departure date. The process usually takes three working days to complete.

Popular Travel Destinations from Chengdu Tianfu Airport

Once you’ve made it from Chengdu Tianfu airport to city center, there are plenty of exciting places to visit in and around the city. Whether you’re a culture lover, foodie, or nature enthusiast, Chengdu has something for everyone.

Chengdu City Center: Explore the bustling streets of Chunxi Road, indulge in local Sichuan cuisine, or stroll through Wuhou Shrine for a taste of history.

Giant Panda Breeding Research Base: No trip to Chengdu is complete without seeing the famous giant pandas. This world-class facility is located just a short drive from the city center.

Mount Qingcheng: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Qingcheng offers scenic views, ancient temples, and peaceful hiking trails.

Leshan Giant Buddha: A short trip from Chengdu, the Leshan Giant Buddha is one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world and a must-see for history buffs.

FAQ on Chengdu Tianfu Airport to City Center

Q1: How long does it take to get from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to the city center?

It typically takes around 40-60 minutes, depending on the mode of transportation.

Q2: What is the cheapest way to get to the city center?

The airport shuttle bus or metro are the most budget-friendly options.

Q3: Can I use a taxi for direct travel to my hotel?

Yes, taxis offer door-to-door service, making them a convenient choice for hotel transfers.

Q4: Is the metro a good option if I have heavy luggage?

The metro can be crowded, and carrying heavy luggage might be challenging during peak hours.

Q5: Are there private car services available at the airport?

Yes, ride-hailing apps like Didi or private car rentals are available at the airport 24/7.

Now that you know the best ways to get from Chengdu Tianfu airport to city center, you can choose the option that best suits your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick taxi ride, a budget-friendly shuttle bus, or a more luxurious private car, there’s a perfect option for every traveler. Safe travels, and enjoy your time in Chengdu!