Chengdu Travel · Travel Basics
Chengdu Travel Basics
The logistics that determine whether your trip runs smoothly — from getting out of the airport to paying for things, getting online, and getting around without a guide.
Chengdu Airport to City Center — How to Get There
Metro Line 18 from T2: ¥14, 30 minutes to the city center, no taxi required. Taxi: ¥100–150, faster at off-peak, but harder to hail without Chinese. This tells you which option fits your situation and what to do once you arrive.
All Travel Basics
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The Ultimate App Kit: Setting up Alipay, WeChat, and Didi Before You Land
Exactly how to set up your payment, taxi, and map apps before you step foot in China — so you can live like a local from minute one.
Is Chengdu Safe? A Guide for Solo and Family Travelers
A reassuring look at why Chengdu is one of the safest cities in the world, plus a few minor annoyances to keep an eye out for.
Internet in China: VPNs, eSIMs, and Local SIM Cards
How to stay connected to Google, Instagram, and WhatsApp while in China — and how to choose the best data plan for your trip.
Getting Around Chengdu — Metro, DiDi, and Taxi
The metro covers 90% of tourist stops. This explains which lines matter, when to use DiDi instead, and what to do in areas the subway doesn't reach.
Paying for Things in Chengdu as a Foreign Tourist
Cash works everywhere and is the safest default. WeChat Pay and Alipay require setup steps without a Chinese bank account. This explains what actually works for foreign visitors.
Chengdu SIM Card and WiFi Guide for Foreign Tourists
Buy a tourist SIM at arrivals before leaving the airport — it's the easiest option, takes 10 minutes, and costs around ¥100 for 30 days. This tells you which one to buy and what to skip.
Chengdu Language Tips for Non-Chinese Speakers
English gets you through hotels and major tourist spots. For ordering food, getting around local areas, and handling anything unexpected, you'll need these apps and phrases.