Chengdu Metro Guide 2026: English Map, Tickets & Panda Base

Navigating the Chengdu Metro in 2026? A complete English guide for foreigners covering Alipay, Tianfu Airport (TFU) express, and routes to the Panda Base.

Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan Province, is one of China's top travel destinations — often called the "Panda Capital" and a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Home to over 21 million people, it blends ancient history, spicy Sichuan cuisine, relaxed teahouse culture, and modern innovation. In recent years, Chengdu has surged in popularity among international tourists, topping searches on platforms like Ctrip and welcoming hundreds of thousands of inbound visitors in 2025 alone, drawn to its giant pandas, hotpot havens, and laid-back vibe.

For exploring this sprawling megacity, the Chengdu Metro stands out as the safest, most affordable, and tourist-friendly option. Avoid traffic jams, high taxi fares, or confusing bus routes — the metro is clean, efficient, and designed with visitors in mind. Extensive coverage spanning over 700 km with around 18 lines and 400+ stations (as of late 2025). 

This guide is updated for 2026, reflecting the latest network expansions and foreigner-friendly features. From essential apps and payment tips to detailed routes for top attractions and airports, let's dive in and make your Chengdu trip unforgettable!

📌 The Quick Verdict on the Chengdu Metro

• Easiest Payment: Link your foreign credit card to Alipay or WeChat Pay and use the built-in transit QR code to tap in and out.

• To the Pandas: Take Line 3 to Panda Avenue Station, then hop on the quick shuttle bus to the South Gate.

• From Tianfu Airport (TFU): Take Line 18. Make sure to check the screens for the "Direct" (直达) train to reach the South Railway Station in just 35 minutes!

• Language: All ticket machines, major station signs, and voice announcements are in clear English.

1. Quick Start: Essential Tools for First-Time Travelers

Step 1: The Digital Toolkit for Chengdu

• Mobile Payment: Alipay and WeChat are mandatory for a seamless experience. They host the digital transit codes used to enter the metro gates.

• Navigation App: Apple Maps (Best English UI) or Amap Maps (Best real-time data).

• Official App Chengdu Metro: This is one of the most reliable tools for your journey. It offers a comprehensive English interface and essential features including:

  • Real-time Schedules: Check exactly when the next train will arrive at any station.

  • Intelligent Route Planning: Input your start and end points to get the fastest or fewest-transfer routes.

  • Mobile Ticketing: Bind your payment method to use the "Scan & Go" QR code at the gates.

  • Station Maps: View detailed layouts of major stations to find exits and restrooms easily.

Step 2: How to Use the Metro Gates

1. Security Check: Every passenger must pass through a security screening. Bags go through X-ray.

2. Tapping In/Out: Open your QR code (Alipay/WeChat), increase phone brightness, and scan it over the glass sensor at the turnstile.

3. Find Your Exit: Follow the yellow "Exit" signs. Each exit is assigned a letter (e.g., Exit A, Exit B) to help you find the correct side of the street.

2. Tickets, Fares & Mobile Payments for Foreigners

2.1 Mobile Payments (Highly Recommended)

In 2026, you do not need a local bank account. There are four primary ways to pay via your smartphone:

• Alipay (Global Version): Tap "Transport" → Select "Chengdu" → "Metro". After a one-time passport verification and binding your International Visa/Mastercard, a QR code will be generated.

• Chengdu Metro Official App: This app supports both Alipay and WeChat Pay as payment sources. Like the Tianfu Tong App, it offers a 10% discount on all metro fares. You can purchase 1-day metro pass within the app. It is highly recommended for its precise real-time train tracking and English interface.

• Tianfu Tong App (Most Versatile): Tianfu Tong is the official integrated smart travel platform for Chengdu, authorized and supported by the municipal government. The platform enables seamless travel across the city’s extensive public transit network, including all Chengdu Metro lines, city buses, and selected tram and suburban rail services. This app also provides a 10% discount on all metro and bus rides. Its unique advantage over the official metro app is that it can also be used to pay for city buses. You can link your Alipay account as the payment source within the app.

• WeChat Pay: Search for the "Tianfu Tong" (天府通) mini-program within WeChat. Bind your international card to generate your transit code.

2.2 Physical Tickets & Tourist Passes

• Single-Journey: Purchase at Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) and Customer Service Center using cash or QR scan. All machines have an English interface.

• Unlimited Tourist Passes:

  • 1-Day: ¥20 | 3-Day: ¥50 | 5-Day: ¥70

  • Note: Buy these at Customer Service Centers in major stations like Chunxi Rd or from ticket vending machines located inside the subway stations.

2.3 Fare Structure

Fares are distance-based and very affordable. The standard pricing ladder is as follows:

• 0 – 4 km: ¥2 (Starting price)

• 4 – 12 km: +¥1 for every 4 km

• 12 – 24 km: +¥1 for every 6 km

• 24 – 40 km: +¥1 for every 8 km

• 40 – 50 km: +¥1 for every 10 km

• Over 50 km: +¥1 for every 20 km

 Airport Express lines (Line 18/19) have a higher cap but rarely exceed ¥15 for a single trip.

3. Complete Chengdu Metro Network Table (2026)

【Click to view the high-definition Chengdu Rail Transit Network Map】

As of late 2025, the Chengdu Metro is one of the world's fastest-growing and most extensive systems, with approximately 18 operating lines (including city lines and intercity extensions like S3) and a total length exceeding 700 km (around 716 km of subway track as reported in September 2025, plus recent additions).  

Operating hours are generally from around 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM (or slightly later on some lines, up to 11:30 PM–midnight), with trains running every 3–8 minutes depending on the time of day. First and last train times vary by line and station—use apps like Chengdu Metro or Alipay for real-time schedules.

4. Key Metro Lines for Tourists (In-Depth)

To help you navigate like a local, here is a detailed breakdown of the most useful lines, including major transfer hubs and highlights along the way.

🚇Line 1 (The North-South Backbone)

The central axis of the city, connecting major transit hubs and the southern business district.

• Major Transfers: 

  • South Railway Station: Lines 7, 18 (TFU Express) & 19 (Interchange for airport).

  •  North Railway Station: Lines 6 & 7.

  • Tianfu Square: Line 2 (Central hub for east-west transit).

  • Luomashi: Line 4 (Access to Kuanzhai Alley).

• Things to Do: 

  • Visit the Chengdu Museum (Tianfu Square Stn) to explore the city's 4,000-year history.

  • Experience the spiritual tranquility of Wenshu Monastery (Wenshu Monastery Stn).

  • Visit the Global Center (Jincheng Plaza Stn) for world-class shopping and an indoor water park.

  • Explore Science City and the scenic Xinglong Lake at the southern end of the line.

🚇Line 2 (The Shopping & Gourmet Vein)

The primary east-west route through the historic and commercial heart.

• Major Transfers: 

  • Chunxi Road: Line 3 (Access to Panda Base).

  • East Railway Station: Line 7 (High-speed rail hub).

  • Tianfu Square: Line 1 (City central square).

• Things to Do: 

  • Take a photo with the Climbing Panda at IFS (Chunxi Rd Stn).

  • Enjoy a traditional tea at People's Park (People's Park Stn).

  • Experience the ultimate luxury shopping and architecture at Taikoo Li (Chunxi Rd Stn).

  • Visit the Sichuan Museum and the historic Qingyang Palace (nearby).

  • Connect to high-speed trains to other cities at Chengdu East Railway Station (East Railway Station Stn).

🚇Line 3 (The Panda & Culture Line)

Your most-used line for traditional sightseeing and animal encounters.

• Major Transfers:

  • Chunxi Road: Line 2.

  • Gaoshengqiao: Line 5 (Access to Jinli).

  • Simaqiao: Line 7 (Northern loop).

• Things to Do: 

  • Get off at Panda Avenue for the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

  • Explore the Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street (Gaoshengqiao Stn).

  • Visit Zhaojuesi Temple for a peaceful spiritual experience (Zhaojuesi South Rd Stn).

🚇Line 18 (Tianfu Airport Express)

The high-speed link between the city and Tianfu International Airport (TFU).

• Major Transfers: 

  • South Railway Station: Lines 1 & 7.

  • Xibocheng (Western Expo City): Lines 1 & 6.

• Things to Do: ⚠️ CRITICAL: Check the LED screens for "Direct" (直达) vs. "Local" (普线) trains. Direct trains reach the airport in just 35 minutes from the South Railway Station.

  • Visit the Western China International Expo City for major trade fairs and events.

🚇Line 4 (The Heritage Line)

Perfect for visiting Chengdu's literary and historic landmarks.

• Major Transfers: 

  • Luomashi: Line 1 (Connects to the North/South axis).

  • Provincial Museum: Line 2 (Easy access to the East Railway Station).

  • Taisheng Road South: Line 18 (Airport Express transfer point).

  • Cut-over Hubs: Sujiapo (Line 9) and Cultural Palace (Line 7 Loop).

• Things to Do: 

  • Wander through Kuanzhai Alley (Kuanzhai Alley Stn) for snacks and souvenirs.

  • Visit the Du Fu Thatched Cottage (Caotang Road North Stn) to see where the famous Tang poet lived.

🚇Line 7 (The Loop Line - Transfer Specialist)

Running in a complete circle around the central city, Line 7 is essential for efficient transfers between almost all other major lines and transit hubs.

• Major Transfers: 

  • Railway Hubs: North Railway Stn (Line 1/6), East Railway Stn (Line 2), South Railway Stn (Line 1/18/19).

  • Cultural Hub: Cultural Palace (Line 4).

• Things to Do:  Use it to bypass city center congestion when moving between major railway stations.

  • Visit the Jinsha Site Museum (Jinsha Site Museum Stn).

🚇Line 10 (Shuangliu Airport Link - CTU Direct Access)

The dedicated link to Shuangliu International Airport (CTU). While international flights moved to TFU for now, CTU still handles significant domestic traffic.

• Major Transfers:

  • Taipingyuan: Lines 3 & 7.

  • Shuangliu West Station: Line 3 & 19.

• Things to Do:  Access Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Shuangliu Airport directly.

  • Transfer at Taipingyuan to reach the city center via Line 3.

⚠️ Critical Warning: Which Airport Are You Using? Chengdu has two major airports. Do not mix them up, as they are on opposite sides of the city!

• Tianfu International (TFU): The massive new hub. All international flights and many domestic flights land here. It is far from the center; you MUST use Line 18.

• Shuangliu International (CTU): The older, closer airport. It now handles mostly domestic flights. Use Line 10 to access this airport.

• Chengdu Airport Guide: Shuangliu (CTU) vs Tianfu (TFU)

5. Getting to Chengdu Panda Base & Top Attractions

5.1 Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

• South Gate (Classic): Take Line 3 to Panda Avenue Stn (Exit A/D) → Transfer to Shuttle Bus 408.

• West Gate (Modern): Take Line 3 to Military General Hospital Stn (Exit B) → Transfer to Shuttle Bus 409.

Pro-Tips for "Hua Hua" Fans:

• Early Arrival: To see celebrity panda He Hua (Hua Hua), you must be at the South Gate before 07:30 AM.

• Morning Activity: Pandas are most active during their feeding time (08:00 AM – 10:00 AM).

5.2 Top Attractions Summary

6. Essential Survival & Etiquette Tips

To ensure your journey is as smooth as a local's, keep these expert tips in mind. This section combines safety regulations with daily boarding etiquette.

6.1 Boarding Etiquette & Rules

• Queueing Culture: Follow the arrows on the platform floor. Stand on the sides of the doors to let passengers exit first before boarding from the middle.

• The "Loudspeaker" Rule: In 2026, it is strictly forbidden to play audio or video on loudspeakers. Please use headphones.

• No Eating/Drinking: Eating is strictly prohibited inside the trains to maintain cleanliness.

• Priority Seating: Always leave the yellow seats for those in need (elderly, pregnant, etc.). Chengdu locals take this very seriously.

• Air Conditioning Zones: In summer, look for signs on the platform indicating "Strong Cool" (强冷) or "Weak Cool" (弱冷) cars to suit your temperature preference.

6.2 Luggage & Security

• Power Bank Policy: Clearly labeled power banks under 20,000mAh (or 100Wh) are allowed.

• Liquid Screening: Security may ask you to take a sip of your beverage or place it on a liquid scanner.

• Size Matters: Bags must not exceed 1.6m (sum of Length+Width+Height).

• Smart Lockers: Available for a small fee at Chunxi Rd, East Railway Stn, and TFU Airport. Pay via Alipay/WeChat.

6.3 Restricted Items & Safety (Crucial for Travelers)

• Flammable or aerosol daily-use items (e.g. nail polish, perfume, sunscreen sprays, hairspray, mousse) are permitted in limited quantities: up to 2 bottles per person, with each bottle not exceeding 500 ml (g).

• Alcohol-containing daily products (e.g. hand sanitizer, disinfectants, mosquito repellent, mouthwash, toner) are also allowed under the same limit: no more than 2 bottles per person, each ≤ 500 ml (g).

• Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content below 56% may be carried, limited to 4 bottles or 2 packaged units per person.

• Animals are generally prohibited. However, small ornamental turtles and fish, aquatic products, and slaughtered edible animals are allowed if properly packaged, leak-proof, and odor-free. Guide dogs and military/police dogs are exempt from the ban.

• Inflatable products:

  • Deflated balloons are allowed.

  • Other inflatable items (e.g. basketballs, volleyballs, swimming rings) do not need to be deflated.

6.4 Logistics & Emergency

• Peak Hours: Avoid 07:30–09:00 and 17:30–19:00 with large suitcases.

• Restrooms: Located in almost every station (check for the "Toilet" icon on layout maps).

• First Aid: Stations are equipped with AEDs and medical kits.

• Lost and Found: Call the Hotline: 028-61638000 (English assistance available) or visit the Customer Service Center.

Armed with mobile payments, essential apps, and this guide, you're ready to dive into Chengdu's relaxed charm, fiery cuisine, and endless wonders. Safe travels, eat boldly (but mind the spice!), and create unforgettable memories in the Panda Capital. See you on the metro! 🚇🐼🌶️