For the parts of Sichuan the railway does not serve, long-distance coaches fill the gap. They reach the county towns, the scenic areas and the places where the train does not go – and they are slower, less predictable and cheaper than rail.
Knowing what you are signing up for makes them a reasonable option rather than a frustrating one.
Variable. Coaches on the main intercity routes are comfortable enough; services into the highlands are often older and more basic. Seating is assigned.
Journey times are long and affected by traffic, weather and the number of stops. Published times are estimates rather than commitments on the mountain routes.
Stored in the hold, with a small allowance in the cabin. Keep valuables and anything you need during the journey with you.
| Route type | Why coach | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Into the western highlands | Often the only public option | Long and slow |
| Scenic area transfers | Direct to the site | Check return times |
| County town connections | Reaches places rail does not | Local knowledge helps |
| Budget travel | Cheapest option | Time is the cost |
Anywhere the railway reaches. Leshan, Emeishan, Dujiangyan and Chongqing are all faster and more comfortable by train, and the price difference is small enough not to matter.
For the western highlands, a hired car with a driver is usually the better choice if you can afford it. The flexibility to stop, and not being tied to a return timetable, is worth a great deal on those routes.
Check the return service before you travel out. This is the single most common problem – a journey that works in one direction and leaves you stranded in the other.
Arrive early for departure. Stations are busy and boarding is not a leisurely process.
Carry water, food and something warm. Mountain routes are long, stops are unpredictable, and the temperature drops with altitude.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best for | Places rail does not reach |
| Check first | Return departure times |
| Carry | Water, food, a warm layer |
| Alternative | Hired car for the highlands |
Generally yes. The main risks are road conditions and weather rather than the vehicles.
Often, and it is worth doing on the popular routes and in peak season.
Reasonable on intercity routes, approximate on mountain ones.
Yes in the hold, with a small cabin allowance.
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