The city of Chengdu has an efficient and affordable public transportation system. Buses, subways, taxis, and trams are all part of the city’s public transportation network. The majority of the city’s streets are served by the vast bus network. The trams are an excellent way to see the city, and taxis are also readily accessible. Visitors can easily navigate the city thanks to the numerous bike-sharing programs that exist there.

Metro system in Chengdu – Basic information

An effective and contemporary means of city transit is the Metro in Chengdu, China. There are 12 lines in the system, with the newest line debuting in 2020. For simple identification, each line is designated with a different color and letter. Every day, more than 7.5 million people use the 518.5-kilometer-long Metro system. Users of the Metro can buy tickets with cash or with their smartphones, and the cost is determined by the distance traveled. The Metro system also offers simple connections to other modes of public transportation, like buses and taxis.

The lines of the Chengdu subway system

Line 1 – Dark Blue

Construction of Line 1’s initial phase cost 7 billion yuan. The Southern Third Ring Road to Jincheng Plaza Station underground portion of Line 1 of the subway system has a natural ventilation system in place. Every 30 m (98 ft 5 in) along the subway top, square ventilation units are constructed to allow fresh air from the outside to reach the underground building site. The technique is employed to build subways in other nations since it lowers building costs and conserves energy.

LINE 2 – Orange

A crosstown northwest-to-southeast trunk line is Line 2. The Chengdu East railway station is served by this line. Line 2 went live on September 16, 2012. An expansion to Longquanyi that is 11 km (6.8 mi) long and mostly elevated started testing in April 2014 and opened in October 2014. It is currently 42.32 kilometers (26.30 mi) long in total.

LINE 3 – Magenta

From Chengdu Medical College to Shuangliu West Station, Line 3 travels in the northeast-to-southwest route. 49.85 kilometers make up the entire distance (30.98 mi). Construction on Phase 1 of this line started on April 28, 2012, and it was completed on July 31, 2016.

LINE 4 – Green

On the metro network in Chengdu, Sichuan, Line 4 is the third line to start receiving payments. Line 4 travels from Wansheng in Wenjiang to Xihe in the Longquanyi in an east-west direction. Construction on the first phase began on July 22, 2011, and it was completed on December 26, 2015.

LINE 5 – Purple

A crosstown north-south trunk line is Line 5. Although having that number, it opened as the seventh line, having done so on December 27, 2019. Purple is the color of line 5.

LINE 6 – Brown

The key crosstown Line 6 runs from the northwest to the south. At a length of 68.88 km (42.80 mi), it is China’s longest non-branching line and the second-longest metro line in Chengdu (with Chengdu Line 18 being in first place for both). It presently has 54 stations, with two more infill stations coming later, making it the longest metro line in China.

LINE 7 – Sky blue

The 38.61 km (23.99 mi) long Loop Line 7 circles Chengdu’s city center. Despite the number, it opened on December 6, 2017, making it the sixth line overall.

LINE 8 – Chartreuse

Line 8 is a 29.1-kilometer (18.1 mi) crosstown filling line that runs from northeast to southwest. Phase 1 went live on December 18, 2020, the same day that lines 6, 9, and 18 began service.

LINE 9 – Orange

When Line 9 is finished, it will be the second circle line in the system. It is Mid/West China’s first driverless metro line.

LINE 10 – Blue

A 39.972 km (24.837 mi) railway called Line 10 runs to and from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. The first day of operation was September 6, 2017. Moreover, it was the first route to run the more powerful type A trains.

LINE 17 – Light green

A 26.15 kilometer (16.25 mi) express line, Line 17 is located in Chengdu’s western outskirts. On December 18, 2020, phase 1, which includes phase 1 of line 19, went into service.

LINE 18 – Teal

The city’s first express subway line is Line 18. It runs adjacent to the Tianfu New Area-serving the southern portion of Line 1. It is operating since September 27, 2020. Phase 2 went into service on December 18, 2020. It is China’s third-longest metro line at 69.39 kilometers (43.12 miles), behind Shanghai Line 11 and Chongqing Line 6.

Map of Chengdu Metro 2023 – Free Download in PDF

The Chengdu Metro is an extensive public transportation system that is easy to navigate and will be even easier to use in 2023 with the release of a free downloadable PDF map. It will be simple to plan your trip and identify the most effective route thanks to the complete information on all metro lines, stops, and connections provided by this map. It will be a great tool for anyone moving about Chengdu and will be updated frequently to reflect new lines and station openings.

Public transport tickets in Chengdu – Best types for travelers & actual prices

One of the most crucial things for visitors to Chengdu to think about is how to navigate the city. The most practical, simple, and affordable way to travel around Chengdu is via public transportation, although other ticket options are available. This detailed overview on Chengdu’s public transportation’s various ticket types and costs is provided.

The most popular ticket is the single ticket, which is good for just one trip on the bus or subway. This ticket can be purchased at the station’s ticket window or one of the vending machines for 2 Yuan. Moreover, travelers can buy a day ticket, which entitles them to unlimited bus and subway travels throughout the day. This ticket is 8 yuan and is available at the station’s ticket window or vending machines.

The Chengdu transportation card offers unlimited rides on the bus or subway for a predetermined period of time for travelers seeking a longer-term option. The card costs 20 yuan, and a further 15 yuan is charged per month of use. At the station’s ticket window or vending machines, you can purchase this card.

There is a Chengdu Tourist Card available for travelers who intend to stay in Chengdu for a longer amount of time. For three days, this card’s unlimited bus and metro journeys are included in its 40 yuan price. At the station’s ticket window or vending machines, you can purchase this card.

The Chengdu Tourist Card is the finest method of transportation for visitors who are only in Chengdu temporarily. For just 40 yuan, this card offers three days of unrestricted bus and metro travel. This card is the most affordable choice for visitors who intend to stay in the city for three days or less, and it can be purchased at the station’s ticket booth or vending machines.

Summary of fares for public transport in Chengdu

• Day tickets (8 Yuan) or single tickets (2 Yuan) are the most popular tickets
• Chengdu transportation card (monthly fee of 20 Yuan plus 15 Yuan)
• The Chengdu Tourist Pass for 3 days of limitless bus and subway travel is 40 Yuan.

Timetables & Schedules of the Chengdu Metro System

With the first train leaving at 6 am and the last train leaving at 11 pm, the Chengdu Metro system is open every day from 6 am to 11 pm. Throughout the day, the train arrival frequency fluctuates; during peak hours, trains arrive every 3-5 minutes, while during off-peak hours, trains arrive every 7-10 minutes. The metro is frequently congested during rush hours, thus users are urged to arrive early to prevent delays. The metro system comprises 12 lines, and 335 stations overall, and covers more than 500 kilometers. Several bus lines are connected to the system, making it simple for users to get from one area of the city to another.

What Are Other Options For Public Transportation In Chengdu?

China’s thriving city of Chengdu is renowned for its first-rate public transportation system. Although the metro is the most widely used mode of public transit, there are other options. There are other additional methods of getting around the city, each of which has benefits of its own.

The public bus system is one option to the metro. All areas of Chengdu are served by buses, which are also an affordable and practical means of transportation. The majority of buses feature nice seats and air conditioning, and they are typically highly dependable. The usual fare is between one and two RMB.

The taxi is still another choice. In Chengdu, taxis are widely available and can be a very convenient and rapid way to travel around. Starting at about 10 RMB, prices rise in accordance with distance.

You can ride a tricycle if you want to be daring. These little three-wheeled cars are typical in Chengdu. They can fit down tiny lanes and alleys, making them an excellent means of exploring the city. The starting fare is about 5 RMB.

Finally, you may always take a Didi if you need to travel quickly. Didi, the Chinese equivalent of Uber, is a fantastic way to travel swiftly and safely. The starting fare is about 10 RMB.

Whatever your requirements, Chengdu’s public transit system is guaranteed to have a suitable choice. Although the metro may be the most well-liked choice, there are many more options for getting around the city.

How To Get From Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (ctu) To The City Center With Public Transport?

The city’s practical public transit makes it easy for visitors to Chengdu, China, to get from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to the city center. We’ll look at the several ways to go from the airport to the city center in this article.

Taxis are one of the easiest ways to go from the airport to the city center. The trip costs not too much and lasts about 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can board the Airport Express Bus, which travels straight from the airport to the city center. The bus travels for around 50 minutes and stops at significant locations throughout the city. It runs every 30 minutes.

As an alternative, you can travel straight from the airport to the city center on Subway Line 10. The trip takes about 45 minutes, with a 4 yuan fee. The Airport Shuttle also travels to the city center in around 70 minutes and departs from the airport hourly.

Last but not least, you can board the Airport Special Line Bus, which travels straight from the airport to the city center. The bus travels to the city center in around 50 minutes and runs every 30 minutes. Ten yuan is the fare.

You now have a few options for traveling by public transit from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to the city core. You can get there quickly whether you take a taxi, bus, or subway, depending on your transportation preference.

What kind of sightseeing do you have to see if you visit Chengdu for the first time?

Sichuan Province’s capital, Chengdu, is a seductive location rich in tradition, heritage, and scenic beauty. This bustling Chinese city has plenty for everyone to enjoy with its moderate temperature, exciting nightlife, and delectable cuisine. There are many things to do in Chengdu, including both modern retail malls and historic sites. Below are a few of Chengdu’s top tourist destinations.

The Panda Breeding and Research Station is one of Chengdu’s most well-known tourist destinations. This renowned facility houses some of the most endangered giant pandas in the world and offers a rare chance to interact closely with these adored creatures. Visitors can observe the pandas, tour the museum, and discover the conservation initiatives that are assisting in the preservation of these threatened species.

Another must-see site in Chengdu is the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Built more than 2,000 years ago, this historic irrigation system is still operational today. The system’s numerous canals, dams, and rivers are open to visitors who want to learn more about the region’s distinctive farming practices and water management methods.

Without visiting Kuanzhai Alley, no vacation to Chengdu would be complete. Several of the oldest and most recognizable structures in the city can be found in this pedestrian-only district. Tourists can stroll through the tiny lanes, stop by traditional teahouses, and browse the busy markets for trinkets.

The Taikoo Li Retail District is where travelers should go if they want a more contemporary experience. There are many multinational brands, hip eateries, and stylish boutiques in this sizable retail mall. It’s the ideal location for souvenir shopping or unwinding and people-watch.

Last but not least, travelers ought to schedule a time to go to the Wuhou Temple. There are several antiques, statues, and monuments housed at this historic shrine, which is devoted to the remembrance of the Shu Kingdom’s founder. Visitors are welcome to tour the complex, discover its past, and pay tribute to the Shu Dynasty.

Several distinctive attractions in Chengdu provide a wide range of experiences. This dynamic Chinese city offers something for everyone to enjoy, from historic sites to cutting-edge shopping.

Summary of our tour guide for Chengdu

Southwest China’s Sichuan Province is headquartered in Chengdu. It is renowned for its thriving culture, breathtaking scenery, and delectable cuisine. One of the biggest cities in the nation, it has a population of about 14 million. The most effective means of transportation for tourists in the city is public transit. The Chengdu Metro is a vast system of above- and below-ground lines that connects different areas of the city. In addition, taxis, shared bikes, and buses are also widely used modes of transportation in Chengdu.

Top 5 FAQs and answers about Chengdu public transport?

1. What kinds of public transportation are offered in Chengdu?
   • Chengdu offers a variety of public transportation options, including buses, subways, taxis, and shared bikes. In Chengdu, buses are the most popular mode of public transportation, and more than 6,000 bus routes serve the city. The Chengdu Metro includes 12 lines and more than 140 stations, making it the most practical means of transportation. Also accessible and a suitable choice for quick excursions are taxis. As a fantastic way to see the city, the city also offers a variety of shared bike options.

2. How much does using Chengdu’s public transportation cost?
   • In Chengdu, the cost of using the public transportation system is reasonably low. The cost of a bus ride begins at 2 RMB, while a metro ride costs 3 RMB. Taxi rates start at 8 RMB and are determined by the distance traveled. A flat fee of 1 RMB per hour is typically charged by shared bike services.

3. In Chengdu, how do I pay for public transportation?
   • The Chengdu Transportation Smart Card can be used to pay for all types of public transportation in Chengdu. For a nominal deposit, this card can be purchased at any Metro station or significant bus terminal, and the balance can be added as needed. As an alternative, customers can pay in cash for their rides.

4. What are the public transportation schedules in Chengdu?
   • Depending on the kind of transportation, different public transportation in Chengdu has different operation hours. While the Metro is open from 6 am to 11 pm, buses are open from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm. While shared bike services normally operate from 7 am to 10 pm, taxis are accessible around-the-clock.

5. Is Chengdu’s public transportation secure?
   • Yeah, Chengdu’s public transportation is generally secure. To make sure that passengers are safe, the buses, subways, and taxis undergo routine inspection and maintenance. Also, the shared bike services feature locks and helmets as safety precautions. To protect your safety, it’s crucial to pay attention to your surroundings and take the appropriate precautions.