How to Ride Chengdu Metro: Map, Train Times, Tickets & Payment Tips
Riding the Chengdu Metro is straightforward once you know the essentials. Start by checking the latest metro map to plan your route and transfers. Note the first and last train times to schedule your trips efficiently.
Tickets can be purchased with cash, a metro card, or via Alipay and WeChat Pay for convenience. Follow station signs, board the correct train, and use transfer tips to reach top attractions like the Panda Base and Chunxi Road easily. This guide shows you how to ride the Chengdu Metro easily and efficiently.
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What Are Chengdu Metro Hours, Tickets & Payment Methods?
Chengdu’s metro is the easiest way to zip across the city, with 12 lines (Lines 1–10, plus 17 & 18) reaching everywhere from downtown to suburbs.
🚇 Need-to-know:
- Runs daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM (times vary slightly by line).
- Fares start at just ¥2 (up to ~¥8 for longer trips).
- Pay however you like: cash, Alipay, WeChat, or a Tianfutong card.
Chengdu Metro Map 2026
Chengdu Metro Map
👀 Digital Map Tips
- Amap/Baidu Maps: Enable "Metro Mode" for step-by-step guidance.
- WeChat Mini-Program: Search "成都地铁" for official updates.
Note: Some older maps may not include Line 17/18—double-check online!
If u are going to Chengdu from other cities in China, pls search China bullet train below!
How to Buy Chengdu Metro Tickets for Foreigners?
Credit: viajeroslowcosteros (Here I take Shanghai for instance, Chengdu is the same way)
Chengdu’s metro is the fastest and cheapest way to explore the city. 👍 I love to use Alipay/WeChat QR code—it’s the easiest! No need to fuss with machines or cash.
Here’s everything you need to know about buying tickets as a foreign visitor:
1. Ticket Vending Machines (Self-Service)
- Available at every station in both English and Chinese.
- How it works:
- Select your destination on the touchscreen.
- Choose the number of tickets.
- Pay with cash (bills/coins), Alipay, or WeChat Pay.
- Pro tip: Smaller stations may not accept large bills (¥50/¥100), so keep some change handy.
2. Ticket Counters (For Assistance)
- Available at major stations (e.g., Tianfu Square, Chunxi Road).
- Helpful if you’re unsure about the machines or need change.
3. Mobile QR Code (The Easiest Option!)
- Alipay:
- Open the app → "Transport" → Select "Transport . Chengdu" → Tap "Metro" section → Get your QR code.
- Scan at the gate to enter and exit.
- WeChat Pay:
- Go to "Services" → "Transport" → Activate "Chengdu Metro QR Code".
- Important for foreigners:
- You must link an international card (Visa/Mastercard etc.) to Alipay/WeChat Pay first.
- Some users report issues with foreign cards—carry cash as a backup.
4. Tianfutong Card (For Frequent Travelers)
- Buy a physical card (¥20 deposit + recharge) at ticket counters.
- Tianfutong App: Works like a digital card (requires Chinese ID for full features).
How to Use the Chengdu Metro Card (Tianfutong Transport Card)?
If you're staying in Chengdu for several days, the Tianfutong Card is your best travel companion—it works on the metro, buses, and even some shared bikes!
✅ Skip ticket lines – Tap & go on all public transport
✅ Save money – Slightly cheaper than single tickets
✅ Convenient – No need to fumble for cash or QR codes
Types of Tianfutong Cards
Card Type | Best For | Key Features |
Standard Card | Short-term visitors | Works on metro/buses, no ID needed |
E-Tianfutong (App) | Tech-savvy travelers | Mobile payment (no physical card) |
Tourist Card | Sightseers | Includes transport discounts + some attraction deals |
Where to Buy Tianfutong Cards?
You can get a Tianfutong Card at:
📍 IC Card Service Points (bus company offices)
📍 Tianfutong Official Stores (dedicated service centers)
📍 Hongqi Supermarkets (major chain)
📍 Wudongfeng Supermarkets (convenience stores)
📍 Online – On "Chengdu Tianfutong" WeChat Official Account or Alipay App
Important Notes
- No ID required for standard cards (but they can't be blocked if lost).
- Deposit: ¥20 for physical cards (refundable if returned).
- Top-up: Minimum ¥10 at machines/stores (cash or mobile pay).
Pro Tip: If you're staying 3+ days, the Tourist Card might save you more!
✅Grab your China eSIM now for instant, reliable data at the best price I've found!
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1002722 booked
How to Ride Chengdu Metro?
Chengdu Metro
1. Plan Your Route
- Use Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps → Enter destination → Select "Metro" route.
- Check:
- Lines needed (e.g., Line 3 to Panda Base)
- Transfer stations (e.g., 省体育馆站 for Lines 1 & 3)
- Exit number (e.g., "Exit D for Chunxi Road")
- 📌 Tip: Screenshot your route—no signal underground!
2. Enter & Buy Ticket
- Pay with Alipay/WeChat:
- Open app → Search "Chengdu Metro" → Scan QR code at gate.
- Buy single-ticket:
- Use self-service machines (select station → pay with cash/WeChat/Alipay).
- Get a token (tap to enter, insert to exit).
- 🛂 Security: Bags go through X-ray (no knives/lighters).
Entrance to take Chengdu metro
3. Board the Train
- Follow signs to your line (e.g., "Line 1 · Science City方向").
- Check direction (final stop name matches app).
- 🚇 Wait behind yellow line → Let passengers exit first.
Board Chengdu metro in the right direction
4. Transfer or Exit
- Transfer? Follow colored signs (e.g., "Line 3 →").
- Exit: Scan QR code or insert token.
- Choose exit number (per app directions).
Best Chengdu Metro Lines & Stops for Travel
Visit the Giant Panda Base by taking Chengdu Metro Line 3
1️⃣ Panda Ave (Line 3)
• Panda Base - See baby pandas!
• Go early (before 9am) - They're most active mornings
• Take Exit A → ¥2 shuttle to entrance
2️⃣ Chunxi Road (Lines 2 & 3)
• IFS rooftop panda - Chengdu's top photo spot
• Taikoo Li - Luxury shopping in traditional courtyards
• Eat: Long Chao Shou's famous dumplings
IFS & the Giant Panda Sculpture 🐼
3️⃣ Kuanzhai Alley (Line 4)
• Wide Alley - Trendy cafes & art
• Narrow Alley - Traditional tea houses
4️⃣ Tianfu Square (Lines 1 & 2)
• Giant yin-yang landmark
• Underground mall with cheap eats
5️⃣ Gaoshengqiao (Line 3)
• Wuhou Temple - Beautiful Three Kingdoms shrine
How to Plan a 1-Day Chengdu Trip Using the Metro?
Time | Activity & Location | Metro Guide |
08:00 | Wuhou Temple (Explore Three Kingdoms history) | Take Line 3 to Gaoshengqiao , Exit C → 10-min walk |
10:00 | Jinli Ancient Street (Sichuan snacks & souvenirs) | Directly adjacent to Wuhou Temple |
12:00 | Chunxi Road (Shopping & IFS panda) | Line 3 → Line 2 at Chunxi Road Station |
14:00 | Kuanzhai Alley (Traditional tea houses) | Line 2 → Line 4 at Taisheng Rd South |
16:00 | Panda Base (See giant pandas) | Line 4 → Line 3 at Chengdu Medical College → Exit A + ¥2 shuttle bus |
19:00 | Hotpot Dinner (Dadonghai/Shudaxia) | Line 3 → Line 2 to city center → Walk/taxi to restaurant |
21:00 | Jiuyanqiao Nightlife (Bars & river views) | Option 1: Line 2 → Line 6 at Niushikou, Exit B Option 2: Didi taxi (¥15-20) |
Reviews of Things to Do in Chengdu
Chengdu Wuhou Shrine Museum
4.6/5
5579 reviewsThank you, tour guide Xiao Chen, for the cultural explanation. Zhuge Liang's spirit of dedicating himself to the cause until his death is worthy of our emulation.
Jinli Street
4.6/5
616 reviewsJinli Street is a vibrant and atmospheric place, especially in the evening when the traditional red lanterns light up. It's quite touristy and crowded, but the historic architecture, local snacks, and souvenirs make it worth a stroll. Come here to soak up the lively nighttime vibe.
Kuanzhai Alley
4.6/5
735 reviewsThe perfect place to sample local snacks and tea)
They encourage you to try everything 🤗
Don't be surprised if, after strolling through the two alleys, several vendors add you on WeChat 😂
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
4.6/5
25220 reviewsPandas are beautiful and cute, it's amazing to see them up close. But be prepared for a crowd.
Chunxi Road
4.7/5
290 reviewsIt felt like Namdaemun Market. It seemed to have functioned as Chengdu's bustling main street for a very long time. There was even the Chunxi Hotel, which has been operating since 1924. After walking a little further, I came across Zhongshan Plaza, which features a statue of Sun Wen and serves as a major landmark of this massive commercial street. Passing the IFS Mall, which was impressive for its pandas climbing up, I arrived at Taiguli. I went down to the basement and browsed the merchandise at the Ole Food Hall. There was even the Marvis series, which I had bought on Taobao because it isn't sold in Korea. There were plenty of Hot Pot Diliao, but having already bought so much, I had nothing left to purchase. I went up to the first floor and bought a Peppercorn Ice Cream at an ice cream shop with the funny name of Yanmasuo. Peppercorns were embedded in the gelato-like container. Although I didn't actually chew on it, the white ice cream offered a new experience of a tingling sensation in my mouth with every bite. I was delighted to see my favorite shop in Daerim, Xiaogunganchuanchuanxiang, and was also surprised by how popular the Korean restaurant was, to the point where people were lining up to eat there.
8% OFF Best Hotels Located Near Chengdu Metro
Check these top hotels near Chengdu Metro Station for a cozy stay👇👇
Hotels Near Kuanzhai Alley Metro Station (Line 4)
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Hotels Near Chunxi Road (Lines 2 & 3)
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Read More about Chengdu Travel Guide
FAQs about Chengdu Metro
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