How to Get from Tianfu Airport to Panda Base in Chengdu

Introduction

If you’re arriving at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) and planning to visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, here Jack recommends you the fastest transportation.

Read more: Chunxi Road – Panda base by bus or metro

1. Fastest Route

The fastest way to travel from Tianfu Airport to the Panda Base is by combining the Airport Bus Line 3 with a short metro ride or a taxi (or a ride-hailing services like Didi).

2. Step-by-Step Travel Guide

Step 1: Take Airport Bus Line 3

The Airport Bus Line 3 runs between Tianfu Airport and the Chengdu Zoo Bus Station, which is located near the panda base. The shuttle bus operates 24 hours a day, with departures every 30 minutes. The travel time is approximately 1 hour.

  • Departure Points: Airport Bus Line 3 is available at both Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2) of Tianfu Airport.
  • Destination: The bus will take you to the Chengdu Zoo Bus Station, the final stop on this route.
  • Schedule: Buses run 24 hours a day, departing every 30 minutes.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 60-80 minutes.
  • Fare:
    • 15 RMB (6:00 AM – 11:30 PM)
    • 25 RMB (11:30 PM – 6:00 AM)

Step 2: Transfer to Metro Line 3

Upon arrival at Chengdu Zoo Bus Station, you’ll need to transfer to the Chengdu Metro Line 3. The metro station is conveniently located near the bus stop, and you can take the metro for two stops until you reach Chengdu Junqu General Hospital Station (the West Gate of the Panda Base). After exiting at Exit B, you can follow the people to the connected shuttle bus or use ride-hailing services like Didi or taxi services to reach the Panda Base’s West Gate.

  • From the Zoo Bus Station, walk to the nearby Chengdu Zoo Metro Station (Line 3).
  • Take the metro heading towards Chengdu Junqu General Hospital Station (2 stops away).
  • Exit at Exit B and follow the people to the Shuttle Bus stop.
  • Take a connected Shuttle Bus to the Gate of the Panda Base (fare: 2 RMB).
  • Booking Tickets: You can book your tickets online through Trip.com at www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/chengdu/chengdu-research-base-of-giant-panda-breeding/

Alternative Option: Take a Taxi or DiDi

If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi or book a DiDi (China’s ride-hailing app) from the Chengdu Zoo Bus Station to the West Gate of the Panda Base. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs around 10 RMB.

tourist map for chengdu panda base
tourist map for chengdu panda base
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Chengdu Tianfu Airport Transport Guide

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), located about 63 km southeast of Chengdu’s city center, is well-connected to the city center through various modes of transportation, including the metro, airport buses, high-speed trains, and taxis.

  • Metro: Take Line 18 express train for 35 minutes to Chengdu South Railway Station for approximately 10 yuan, then transfer for your final destination (Tianfu Airport by metro line 18).
  • Airport  Bus: Operates 24/7, every 30 minutes, costing 15 – 25 yuan. Routes include line 1 to Chunxi Road, line 2 to Jinsha Hub Station,  line 3 to Zoo Station, line 4 to Chengdu East Station, and line 5 to Shuangliu Airport.
  • High-speed Train: A fast option to Chengdu East Station in 26-28 minutes, with fares between 20-30 yuan (Tianfu Airport to Chengdu East by train).
  • Taxi: Direct rides to the city center are available, covering over 50 km for an estimated 150-250 yuan.

Trusted Online Ticket Agents:

Option 1: China Highlights is a reliable online agency  for China train ticketing. They get positive reviews on TripAdvisor & Trustpilot. Sharon and her team help you buy tickets & plan rail routes even deliver tickets to your hotels with a service fee.

Option 2: Trip.com  is an internatioal brand owned by Ctrip Group, China's largest online travel booking platform. Trip.com offers booking service for flight, train, hotel, activities, etc