How to Get to Chengdu from Beijing

Introduction

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is famous for its spicy cuisine, giant pandas, and rich cultural heritage. As one of China’s most popular tourist destinations, getting to Chengdu from Beijing is convenient with multiple transportation options available.

Transportation Options Overview

• By Plane: The fastest option, with flight duration of about 2.5-3 hours
• By High-Speed Train: Comfortable and scenic, taking approximately 6-8 hours
• By Overnight Train: Economical choice, saving daytime travel time
• By Car: For road trip enthusiasts, approximately 18-20 hours driving time

By Plane

Flying is the most time-efficient way to travel between Beijing and Chengdu.

• Airports: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) or Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)
• Flight Duration: About 2.5-3 hours
• Airlines: Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Sichuan Airlines, and other major carriers operate frequent flights
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 500-1500, depending on season and advance booking
• Airport Transfer: From TFU airport, take the metro Line 18 to the city center (about 40 minutes). From CTU airport, take metro Line 10 or airport express bus.

By High-Speed Train

High-speed train offers a comfortable and scenic alternative to flying.

• Stations: Beijing West Railway Station (Beijingxi) to Chengdu East Railway Station (Chengdudong)
• Travel Time: Approximately 6-8 hours depending on the train
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 600-1000
• Seat Classes: Second class (Er Deng Zuo), First class (Yi Deng Zuo), and Business class (Shang Wu Zuo)

By Overnight Train

For budget-conscious travelers who want to save on accommodation costs.

• Travel Time: Approximately 18-22 hours
• Accommodation: Hard sleeper (Ying Wo) with 6 berths per compartment, or Soft sleeper (Ruan Wo) with 4 berths per compartment
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 280-450

By Car

For those who prefer the freedom of driving.

• Distance: Approximately 1,800 kilometers
• Driving Time: About 18-20 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops
• Route: Mainly via G4 Jinggang Expressway and G5 Beijing-Kunming Expressway

Recommendation

• For Speed: Take a flight, which is the fastest option at about 3 hours door-to-door
• For Comfort and Scenery: Take the high-speed train, which offers spacious seats and the chance to see China’s diverse landscapes
• For Budget: Take an overnight train, which saves on both transportation and accommodation costs

Tips for Travelers

• Booking: Book tickets 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons
• Platforms: For trains, use the official 12306.cn website or app. For flights, use Ctrip, Trip.com, or official airline websites
• Documentation: Carry your passport or Chinese ID card for ticket verification and boarding
• Airport Choice: Consider which Beijing airport is more convenient for you – PEK is closer to the city center, while PKX is newer and less crowded

Last Updated: July 2026

Note: Schedules and prices are subject to change. Please verify current information on official booking platforms before traveling.