How to use the Chengdu metro, with fares, payment methods, airport connections, peak-hour advice, and current notes on Line 18 and the Tianfu Airport route.
Fares and payment
Metro fares are based on distance and typically start around 2 yuan, rising for longer trips. You can buy a single-journey ticket at station machines, but the smoother option is the transport QR code inside Alipay or WeChat. Foreign cards linked to those apps usually work, though failures happen. Keep a physical ticket option available if your phone will not scan. Station machines may require exact change or accept cash and mobile payment.
Airport connections
Shuangliu Airport is served by Metro Line 10. Tianfu International Airport is served by Metro Line 18 from Chengdu South Railway Station, a ride of roughly 40 to 60 minutes. Line 18's Phase 3 extension toward Chengdu Railway Station is still under construction as of late 2026, with no confirmed opening date to build a plan around. Check the current route before relying on a direct metro connection from the north of the city.
Using the system
Signage and announcements are in Chinese and English. Bags go through a security scanner at every station. Stand to the right on escalators, let passengers off before boarding, and do not eat or drink on the train. The system is busy during weekday rush hours, roughly 7:30 to 9:30 am and 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Avoid those windows with luggage if you can.
Useful lines for visitors
Line 1 runs north-south through the center and connects to major areas. Line 2 crosses east-west and serves People's Park and Chunxi Road. Line 3 links the zoo and panda-related stops. Line 18 is the airport line via Chengdu South. Transfers inside major interchange stations can involve long walks, so do not schedule a tight connection between two far-apart lines.
When not to take the metro
Use a taxi or DiDi if you have heavy luggage, are traveling with a stroller, or are arriving late at night. The metro generally stops around 11 pm, and exact last-train times vary by line and station. For a group of three or four, a taxi can be competitive with four metro fares and much easier with bags. Always use the official taxi queue or the app rather than accepting an unmarked car.
Questions travelers ask about this
Is the Chengdu metro easy for foreign visitors?
Yes. Signage is in English, fares are cheap, and payment QR codes work for most visitors. Security scanning at stations is standard.
Does the Chengdu metro go to Tianfu Airport?
Yes, Line 18 connects Chengdu South Railway Station with Tianfu Airport. The extension to Chengdu Railway Station is not yet open.