Chengdu Tianfu International Airport
    IATA Code: TFU

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) Opened in 2021 about 50 km South-East of the City and Takes Almost Every International Flight. Shuangliu (CTU) Is the Other, Closer Airport

    View All eSIM Plans for China
    Airport Data Sheet
    TFU
    IATA / ICAOTFU / ZUTF
    ServesChengdu, China
    Coordinates30.3125° N, 104.4413° E
    Elevation1440 ft
    Number of Terminals2 Terminals
    Airport Opening HoursOpen 24 Hours
    Recommended Arrival Time2 Hours, 3 Flying Abroad
    Official Websitesctfia.com
    // Airport Data

    Chengdu Tianfu International Airport at a Glance

    Two Mirrored Terminals Shaped Like the City Sunbird Stand 500 m Apart, with the Ground Transportation Centre between Them. Terminal 1 Handles International Flights and Some Domestic Ones, Terminal 2 the Domestic Network, and a Free People Mover Links Them Underground. The Metro, the Railway and the Coach Stands Are All in That Centre

    IATA TFU · ICAO ZUTF · Elev 1440 ft
    // Connectivity

    Is There Free WiFi at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport?

    Yes, Free Wi-Fi Covers Both Terminals. Log in with a Code Texted to the Number You Enter, or Take One from a Self-Service Kiosk That Reads Your Passport. Prepaid SIM Cards Are Sold around the Clock in the Terminal 1 International Arrivals Area

    Where Can I Buy a SIM Card at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport?

    Security Lane 02 · Place One Option on the BeltLive Compare
    X-Ray MonitorScanning · travelData.shop eSIM

    Airport WiFi

    Connection SpeedSlow / Unstable
    CostFree, Often Time-Limited
    Activation TimeLogin / Ads / Forms
    Documents NeededYes (eMail / ID / Login)
    CoverageOnly inside Airport
    SecurityPublic Network (Risk)
    Can Be Set Up before You FlyNo
    Local Phone NumberNo
    Can Pay in CashNot Applicable
    Where You Get ItAt the Terminal, Once You Land

    Local SIM Card

    Connection SpeedFast 4G/5G Speeds
    CostCounter Price, Varies by Desk
    Activation TimeQueue and Paperwork at the Desk
    Documents NeededPassport Often Required
    CoverageWorks across Entire Country
    SecurityPrivate Secure Connection
    Can Be Set Up before You FlyNo
    Local Phone NumberYes
    Can Pay in CashYes
    Where You Get ItA Desk or Kiosk in the Terminal

    Roaming Options

    Connection SpeedFast, Depends on Your Plan
    CostYour Operator Rate, Can Be High
    Activation TimeInstant Connection
    Documents NeededNone
    CoverageWorks across Entire Country
    SecurityPrivate Secure Connection
    Can Be Set Up before You FlyYes
    Local Phone NumberKeeps Your Own Number
    Can Pay in CashNo
    Where You Get ItAlready Active on Your Phone

    travelData.shop eSIM

    Connection SpeedFast 4G/5G Speeds
    CostFree Trial, Then from 2.99 $
    Activation TimeInstant Connection
    Documents NeededNone
    CoverageWorks across Entire Country
    SecurityPrivate Secure Connection
    Can Be Set Up before You FlyYes
    Local Phone NumberOn Selected Plans
    Can Pay in CashNo
    Where You Get ItOnline, before You Leave Home
    PlanPilot™ AI · Verdict
    Set It Up before You Fly and You Land Already Online
    // Why eSIM

    Why Use eSIM Instead of Chengdu Tianfu International Airport WiFi?

    Skip the Login Portals — Land, Tap Once, and You Are on a Fast Private Connection That Keeps Working Far beyond the Terminal

    Instant Connection

    Get Online the Moment You Land — No Searching for WiFi, No Waiting, No Login Screens

    Works beyond the Airport

    Stay Connected across the Entire China — From the Airport to Your Hotel, City Center, or Road Trip

    No Public WiFi Risks

    Avoid Slow, Unsecured Public Airport Networks & Stay on Your Own Private Mobile Connection Instead

    Perfect for Travel Essentials

    Use Maps, Book a Ride, Check-In to Your Hotel, or Message Instantly after Arrival

    // Setup

    How to Get Internet at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    Get Connected Instantly after Landing — No Airport WiFi Needed

    1. 01
      Pre-Flight

      Choose Your DATA Plan

      Pick the Best Option for Your Arrival at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    2. 02
      Boarding

      Install eSIM in One Tap

      Activate Your eSIM Instantly with One Tap — QR Code Available as a Backup

    3. 03
      Arrival

      Get Online Instantly

      Start Using Internet Immediately at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    // Boarding Data

    Best Way to Get Internet at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    Compare Free WiFi vs Mobile Data & Choose What Works Best for You

    // FAQ

    FAQs about Internet at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    Everything You Need to Know about Getting Online at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    In Most Cases, Yes. eSIM Mobile Data Is Usually Faster, More Stable, and More Secure than Crowded Public WiFi at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, Especially during Peak Travel Hours
    Yes. You Can Buy and Install Your eSIM before Departure so Your Mobile Data Works Instantly When You Land at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport
    No. If Your Phone Supports eSIM, You Don’t Need to Buy a Physical SIM Card at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport — You Can Get Mobile Data Instantly Online
    Yes. Once Your eSIM Is Installed, Your Mobile Data Starts Working as Soon as You Land and Connect to a Local Network
    Most Travelers Are Comfortable with 1GB to 5GB for Navigation, Ride Apps, Messaging, and Light Browsing during the First Days after Arrival
    Yes. Most Dual-SIM Phones Allow You to Keep Your Regular SIM for Calls and SMS While Using eSIM for Mobile Data
    Yes. You Can Increase Your Data Amount and Also Extend Your Plan Validity, Depending on the Provider and Package Options Available for Your eSIM
    Support // LIVE CHAT 24/7

    Still Need Help?

    Chat With Our Support Team 24/7 for Help With Compatibility, Installation, Activation, or Connection Issues

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    // Terminal Guide

    First Time at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport? Here’s What You Should Know

    Number of TerminalsF1
    2 Terminals
    Terminal 1 Takes International Flights and Some Domestic Ones; Terminal 2 Is the Domestic Building. Both Mirror the City Sunbird Emblem
    TFU · Terminal Guide · F1
    Terminal LayoutF2
    2 Terminals, 3 Runways
    A Circular Core with Six Radiating Arms over Four Floors: Baggage Claim on 1, Arrivals and Transfers on 2, Gates on 3, Check-In on 4
    TFU · Terminal Guide · F2
    Transfers between TerminalsF3
    Free People Mover, 1 min
    A Driverless Train Runs on Level B2 around the Clock, Every Three Minutes. The Two Terminals Are 500 m Apart, a Ten-Minute Walk
    TFU · Terminal Guide · F3
    Airport Opening HoursF4
    Open 24 Hours
    Terminal 2 Keeps Overnight Rest Areas Either Side of Security, with 24-Hour Shops. Desks, the Metro and Most Retail Keep Shorter Hours
    TFU · Terminal Guide · F4
    Check-In and Security HoursF5
    Check-In Closes 40-45 min
    Domestic Check-In Closes 40 min before Departure, International 45. Overnight Check-In in Terminal 2 Runs 19:00 to 00:30 for Next-Day Flights
    TFU · Terminal Guide · F5
    Recommended Arrival TimeF6
    2 Hours, 3 Flying Abroad
    The Airport Advises Two Hours before a Domestic Flight and Three before an International One. Boarding Gates Close 30 to 40 min Out
    TFU · Terminal Guide · F6
    // Airport Parking

    Where Can I Park at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport?

    See Practical Airport Parking Options, Walking Time to Terminals, Typical Price Guidance, and Booking Tips before You Drive to the Airport

    Parking Options
    4 Available
    Booking Advice
    Pre-Book Online
    Parking Ticket

    Terminal 1 Car Park

    Walk Time to Terminal
    A Few Minutes through the Centre
    Typical Price
    CNY 4 per 30 min, Then CNY 3; CNY 100 Daily Cap
    Location
    Between the Two Terminals, on the Terminal 1 Side of the Transport Centre
    Best For
    Short Stops and Parking Next to the Terminal

    1,739 Spaces, with Accessible, Minibus and Coach Bays. Ride-Hailing Cars Pick Up from Level L1 of the Same Building

    TFU · TE · Terminal 1 Car Park
    Parking Ticket

    Terminal 2 Car Park

    Walk Time to Terminal
    A Few Minutes through the Centre
    Typical Price
    CNY 4 per 30 min, Then CNY 3; CNY 100 Daily Cap
    Location
    Between the Two Terminals, on the Terminal 2 Side of the Transport Centre
    Best For
    Domestic Departures and Short Stops

    1,699 Spaces. Either Car Park Reaches Either Terminal through the Ground Transportation Centre, so the Choice Is Only about Which Walk Is Shorter

    TFU · TE · Terminal 2 Car Park
    Parking Ticket

    Public Area Car Park

    Walk Time to Terminal
    Free Shuttle to the Terminals
    Typical Price
    CNY 4 per Hour, CNY 50 Daily Cap
    Location
    8 Duyi Avenue, outside the Terminal Complex
    Best For
    Leaving a Car for Several Days

    900 Spaces Including 260 with Chargers. Half the Daily Rate of the Terminal Car Parks, at the Cost of a Shuttle Ride Each Way

    TFU · PU · Public Area Car Park
    Parking Ticket

    Large Vehicle Parking

    Typical Price
    CNY 6 per 30 min, Then CNY 4; CNY 120 Daily Cap
    Location
    Marked Bays in Both the Terminal Car Parks and the Public Area Car Park
    Best For
    Minibuses, Coaches and Other Large Vehicles

    The Public Area Car Park Charges Large Vehicles CNY 8 an Hour with a CNY 60 Daily Cap Instead

    TFU · LA · Large Vehicle Parking

    The First 15 Minutes of Each Day Are Free Everywhere. Rates Are Set by the City under Its 2022 Price Schedule and Roll over on a 24-Hour Cycle

    // Airport Lounges

    What Facilities Does Chengdu Tianfu International Airport Have?

    Lounges at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    Access Key — Who Gets in, Stated Once
    Priority Pass× 1

    Priority Pass Members, and China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines and China United Passengers

    Star Alliance× 1

    Air China First and Business Class Passengers and Star Alliance Gold Members

    Airline & Status× 1

    First and Business Class Passengers and Eligible Frequent Flyers on International Departures

    Air China First and Business Class Lounge

    Terminal 2 · Airside near Gate 216, with a Second Room on Level 4
    BuffetBar ServiceFlight InformationWi-FiSeating
    TFU · Pass 01

    Air China Bases Much of Its Chengdu Operation Here and This Is Its Largest Room, at about 2,950 Square Metres

    China Eastern Airlines Lounge

    Terminal 2 · Airside Domestic Departures on the 2nd Floor, Opposite Gate 214
    Alcoholic DrinksDay BedsChildren’s Play AreaAir Conditioning
    TFU · Pass 02 · 06:00 to the Last China Eastern Flight

    Domestic Departures Only, with a Two-Hour Stay Limit and Conference Rooms for an Extra Charge

    International First and Business Class Lounge

    Terminal 1 · Airside in the International Departure Concourses A to C
    RefreshmentsBar ServiceFlight InformationWi-FiSeating
    TFU · Pass 03

    The Room to Look for on the International Side, since the Two Priority Pass Lounges Are Both in Terminal 2

    // Passenger Facilities

    Lounges, Food, ATMs and Storage

    Check Practical Terminal Services While Waiting, Arriving or Departing: Food, ATMs, Storage, Charging, Accessibility Support and More

    Bank of China Has a Branch in Terminal 2 Next to Door 9, and Both Terminals Carry Bank and Postal Counters. Day to Day, Shops Here Expect Alipay or WeChat Pay
    Travelex Is on the Terminal 1 Departure Floor by Door 1 and ICE Has Counters in Both Terminals, Including One in the Terminal 1 Arrivals Hall That Stays Open All Night
    Left Luggage Sits behind Check-In Island B in Terminal 1 and Island G in Terminal 2, Both on the Departure Level and Open around the Clock. A Large Bag Is CNY 20 for Six Hours
    Lost Property Counters Open 08:00 to 20:00, in Terminal 1 between Gates 6 and 7 in the Departure Hall and in Terminal 2 behind Check-In Counter N. The Hotline Is 028-86906666
    Terminal 2 Stacks Its Food by Floor: Xunxiangli Airside on Level 3, Shiweifang Landside on Level 5. Starbucks, McDonald’s, KFC and Sichuan Noodle Shops Run from 06:00 to 22:30
    Duty Free Is Airside on Level 3 of the International Departures Area and Stays Open around the Clock. Terminal 2 Has about 71 Units, Including a Floor of Sichuan Food and Crafts
    Charging Stations Are Dotted through Both Terminals and Every Floor Has a Water Point. The Terminal 2 Overnight Kit Includes a Charging Cable If You Are Caught without One
    Every Floor Has a Baby-Care Room and an Accessible Toilet, with Waist-Height Touch Switches a Wheelchair User Can Reach. There Is a Children’s Play Area and Prams to Borrow
    Smoking Is Only Allowed in the Enclosed Smoking Rooms, Which Sit in the Four Open-Air Courtyards of the Two Terminals and Are Fitted with Air Filtering
    Wheelchairs, Prams, Hearing Aids and Reading Glasses Are Lent Free at the Information Desks and on Level 2 of the Transport Centre, and Staff Will Escort You to the Gate

    Twelve Landscaped Courtyards Sit inside the Two Terminals and Seven Sichuan Museums Run Exhibition Spaces in Them. The Airport Hotline Is 028-86906666

    // Overnight Stay

    Where Can I Sleep at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport?

    Find On-Airport and Nearby Hotel Options, How to Reach Them from Arrivals, Expected Nightly Rates, and Practical Booking Tips for Late Arrivals or Early Departures

    Hotels Nearby
    3 Available
    Connected to TerminalTFU · H1

    Tianfu Airport Joyhub Air Hotel

    How to Reach
    Walk to Either Terminal without Going Outside
    Location
    1 Yunyue Road, at the Centre of the Airport beside the Transport Centre
    Best For
    Early Departures and Comfortable Layovers

    Built and Run by the Airport Group. 329 Rooms, an Indoor Pool, a Gym and an Executive Lounge

    Connected to TerminalTFU · H2

    Tianfu Airport Joyhub Cheer Hotel

    How to Reach
    Walk to Terminal 1, Terminal 2 or the Transport Centre
    Location
    2 Yunyue Road, in the Middle of the Airport Complex
    Best For
    Overnight Stops between Flights

    Has Its Own Self-Service Check-In and Bag-Drop Desk, so You Can Hand over Luggage before You Enter the Terminal at All

    Inside the TerminalTFU · H3

    Take a Nap Sleep Cabins

    How to Reach
    Inside the Terminal, before Security
    Location
    Terminal 2, Landside Arrivals on the 2nd Floor, 100 m Left of Exit B2
    Best For
    Short Rests and Red-Eye Waits

    Single and Double Cabins with Bedding, Earplugs, a Wake-Up Call and USB Charging. Open around the Clock

    Terminal 2 Also Hands Out Overnight Kits with a Blanket, Towel, Toothbrush, Earplugs and a Charging Cable, Collected at the Information Desk after Security

    // City Transfer

    How Do I Get from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport to Chengdu?

    Bus & Train at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    See Exact Route Options, Departure Points, Schedule Windows and Ticket Tips for Getting to the Center after Landing

    Bus Connection

    2

    Airport Express Line 2, Kuanzhai Alley

    Departure Stop
    Ground Level outside Gate G01 at Terminal 1 or Gate G03 at Terminal 2
    Arrival Stop
    Kuanzhai Alley, Calling at Shuangqiaozi
    Schedule
    Every 30 min, and a Full Coach Leaves Early · 08:00 to 20:00 in Both Directions
    Ticket
    CNY 15 from 06:00 to 23:30 and CNY 25 Overnight, Online or Cash on the Day

    The Handiest Route for the Old-Town Sights, since Kuanzhai Alley Sits beside Renmin Park and a Short Ride from Tianfu Square

    TFU · 2 · Airport Express Line 2, Kuanzhai Alley
    3

    Airport Express Line 3, Giant Panda Base

    Departure Stop
    Ground Level outside Gate G01 at Terminal 1 or Gate G03 at Terminal 2
    Arrival Stop
    Panda Base West Gate, Calling at Balizhuang Metro and the Zoo
    Schedule
    Every 30 min Out, Hourly Back · 05:35 to 19:05 from the Airport, 08:30 to 19:00 Back
    Ticket
    CNY 15 from 06:00 to 23:30 and CNY 25 Overnight, Online or Cash on the Day

    The Return Leg Runs by Way of Chengyu Interchange Metro Station Rather than Balizhuang, so the Two Directions Are Not Mirror Images

    TFU · 3 · Airport Express Line 3, Giant Panda Base
    4

    Airport Express Line 4, Chengdu East Station

    Departure Stop
    Ground Level outside Gate G01 at Terminal 1 or Gate G03 at Terminal 2
    Arrival Stop
    Chengdu East Coach Station, beside Chengdu East Railway Station
    Schedule
    Every 20 to 30 min · 08:15 to 02:30 from the Airport, 06:00 to 00:20 Back
    Ticket
    CNY 15 from 06:00 to 23:30 and CNY 25 Overnight, Online or Cash on the Day

    The Longest Window of Any of the Routes, and the One That Covers the Gap after the Last Metro for Anyone Heading for the Railway Station

    TFU · 4 · Airport Express Line 4, Chengdu East Station
    2

    Night Line 2, Jinsha Bus Hub

    Departure Stop
    Ground Level outside Gate G01 at Terminal 1 or Gate G03 at Terminal 2
    Arrival Stop
    Jinsha Bus Hub Station, Calling at Jiannan Avenue North
    Schedule
    Every 30 to 60 min · 20:30 to 07:30 in Both Directions
    Ticket
    CNY 15 from 06:00 to 23:30 and CNY 25 Overnight, Online or Cash on the Day

    Covers the West of the City Overnight, and Jinsha Bus Hub Is a Short Metro Ride from the Jinsha Site Museum

    TFU · 2 · Night Line 2, Jinsha Bus Hub
    5

    Night Line 5, Shuangliu Airport

    Departure Stop
    Ground Level outside Gate G01 at Terminal 1 or Gate G03 at Terminal 2
    Arrival Stop
    Shuangliu International Airport, Calling at Global Center
    Schedule
    Hourly · 00:00 to 05:00 in Both Directions
    Ticket
    CNY 25, Online or Cash on the Day

    This Is the Only Overnight Link between the Two Chengdu Airports, Running Exactly When Metro Line 19 Is Closed. Allow Well over an Hour on the Road

    TFU · 5 · Night Line 5, Shuangliu Airport
    6

    Night Line 6, Global Center

    Departure Stop
    Ground Level outside Gate G01 at Terminal 1 or Gate G03 at Terminal 2
    Arrival Stop
    Global Center, Calling at Haichang Road and Tianfu 3rd Street Metro
    Schedule
    Every 60 to 70 min · 23:30 to 03:40 from the Airport, 01:05 to 05:15 Back
    Ticket
    CNY 25, Online or Cash on the Day

    Serves the Southern Business District Overnight. It Stops at Two Metro Stations, Which Is Useful Once the Trains Start Again in the Morning

    TFU · 6 · Night Line 6, Global Center

    Train Connection

    18

    Metro Line 18, the Tianfu Airport Express

    33 min Express, 40 min Local
    Departure Stop
    Tianfu International Airport Terminal 1 and 2 Station, Level B1
    Arrival Stop
    Chengdu South Railway Station, Interchange with Metro Lines 1 and 7
    Schedule
    Every 8 min, with Hourly Express Runs · First Train 06:00, Last Train 23:30
    Ticket
    CNY 10, from the Station Machines or by QR Code in a Payment App

    The Express Runs through without the Intermediate Stops. From Chengdu South, Line 1 Carries on to Tianfu Square and Chengdu Railway Station and Line 7 to Chengdu East

    TFU · 18 · Metro Line 18, the Tianfu Airport Express
    19

    Metro Line 19, the Dual-Airport Link

    30 min Direct, 50 min Otherwise
    Departure Stop
    Tianfu International Airport Terminal 1 and 2 Station, Level B1
    Arrival Stop
    East of Terminal 2 of Shuangliu International Airport Station
    Schedule
    Direct Runs Are Timetabled; Otherwise Change at Tianfu Station · Daytime and Evening; the Metro Closes Overnight
    Ticket
    About CNY 10 between the Two Airports

    Lines 18 and 19 Share Track from Tianfu Station to the Airport. At Shuangliu You Walk Out of One Station and into the Line 10 One, Which Is Free within 30 Minutes

    TFU · 19 · Metro Line 19, the Dual-Airport Link
    T3

    High-Speed Rail, Tianfu Airport Station

    About 30 min
    Departure Stop
    Tianfu Airport Railway Station, inside the Ground Transportation Centre
    Arrival Stop
    Chengdu East Railway Station
    Ticket
    Around CNY 30 in Second Class, Booked through the National Railway App

    Open since December 2023. The Line Also Runs South towards Zigong, Ziyang and Neijiang, so the Airport Doubles as a Regional Railhead

    TFU · T3 · High-Speed Rail, Tianfu Airport Station
    // Ground Transport

    Taxi, Ride Apps and Car Rental

    Compare the Main Door-To-Door Options after Landing, Including Official Taxi Pickup Points, Ride-Hailing Availability and On-Airport Rental Counters

    Taxi Fare
    160-195 ¥
    Ride Apps
    DiDi
    Rental Companies
    1 Available

    Regular Taxi

    Official Operators
    Chengdu Metered Taxis
    Pickup Point
    Rank on Floor 1 of Both Terminals; Departures Drop Off on Floor 4
    Travel Time to Center
    60 to 90 min
    Payment Methods
    Cash, WeChat Pay, Alipay and UnionPay

    Ride Apps

    DiDi
    Around the Clock
    PricingQuoted in the App before You Book
    Pickup PointLevel L1 of the Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Car Parks, Not the Taxi Rank
    NotesDrivers Wait in the Public-Area Car Park and Are Called Forward, so the Car May Take a Few Minutes to Reach You Even at a Quiet Hour
    TFU · Ride Hail · DiDi

    Car Rental

    eHi Car Rental
    Desk Location
    Arrivals Level of the Terminal, in the Central Area
    Vehicle Pickup
    Terminal Car Park, with a Member of Staff to Walk You to the Bay

    Opened as a Flagship Branch in March 2026. Cars Go Back to the Terminal 1 Car Park, so the Return Is inside the Airport

    TFU · Rental Desk · eHi Car Rental

    A Foreign Licence and an International Driving Permit Are Not Valid in China. You Need a Temporary Chinese Permit, or a Car with a Driver

    // Airport FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions about Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

    Tianfu Is TFU, 50 km South-East, and Takes Most International Flights. Shuangliu Is CTU, 16 km Out, Domestic, and since Mid-2026 Many Hong Kong and Taipei Flights
    Metro Line 18 Runs from the Station between the Terminals to Chengdu South Railway Station in 33 Minutes on the Express and about 40 on the Local, for CNY 10
    About 50 km South-East of the Centre, at Lujia Town in Jianyang. A Taxi Takes 60 to 90 Minutes and Costs Roughly CNY 160 to 195, and the Passenger Pays the Tolls
    Metro Line 19 Links Them, 30 Minutes on a Direct Dual-Airport Train and about 50 If You Change at Tianfu Station, for Roughly CNY 10. Night Line 5 Covers 00:00 to 05:00
    Two. Terminal 1 Takes International Flights and Some Domestic Ones, Terminal 2 the Domestic Network. A Free Driverless Train on Level B2 Links Them in about a Minute
    Two Hours for a Domestic Flight and Three for an International One. Domestic Check-In Closes 40 Minutes before Departure, International 45, and Gates 30 to 40
    The Terminal Car Parks Charge CNY 4 per Half Hour for Two Hours, Then CNY 3, Capped at CNY 100 a Day. The Public Area Car Park Is CNY 4 an Hour, Capped at CNY 50
    Yes, across Both Terminals. Log in with a Code Texted to the Number You Enter, or Take One from a Passport-Reading Kiosk. Bring a Phone That Can Receive the Message
    Yes. Tianfu Airport Railway Station Is inside the Ground Transportation Centre. Chengdu East Is about 30 Minutes Away and a Second-Class Seat Costs around CNY 30
    Chengdu Is a 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Port. Citizens of 54 Countries with an Onward Ticket to a Third Country Apply at Border Inspection in Terminal 1 Arrivals
    // Know before You Go

    Travel Tips & Essential Information for China

    China is a very large country with major differences between cities, regions, climate, language, and transport systems. Visitors usually find modern transport and good mobile coverage in big cities, but payment systems, internet restrictions, and language barriers can require extra preparation.

    China AT A GLANCE
    China
    LanguageStandard Chinese
    Capital CityBeijing
    CurrencyRenminbi yuan (CNY)
    Time ZoneChina Standard Time (UTC+8)
    Emergency110 police · 120 ambulance · 119 fire
    Driving Sideright
    Plug TypeType A, Type C, and Type I
    Voltage220 V, 50 Hz
    Compare Local SIM & eSIM Plans →

    Official Languages: Standard Chinese

    English is not widely spoken outside major hotels, some tourist sites, and international business areas. In large cities you may find limited English support on metro systems and at airports, but many everyday interactions commonly require translation apps or prepared addresses in Chinese.

    Mobile Network: Mobile coverage is generally strong in cities and along major transport routes, with widespread 4G and growing 5G coverage. Speeds are commonly good for local apps and services, but access to many international websites and apps is restricted.

    Roaming/SIM/eSIM: For most visitors, a local SIM or travel eSIM is usually the most practical choice for data. Roaming from your home provider may be simpler because it can sometimes allow access to services you normally use, but it is often expensive. A local SIM is commonly cheaper for longer stays and domestic use, though setup may require passport registration and local app compatibility. A travel eSIM can be the easiest balance for short trips if your phone supports it. Before travel, check whether your chosen option gives access to the apps and sites you need, and download maps, translation tools, and booking details in advance.

    International bank cards are accepted at some hotels, larger chain stores, and major transport hubs, but mobile payments dominate daily transactions. Many small shops, restaurants, taxis, and local services commonly prefer or rely on Alipay or WeChat Pay, so visitors should prepare a workable mobile payment option and also carry some cash.

    Tipping is not traditionally expected in most everyday situations in China. In many local restaurants, taxis, and basic services, people typically do not tip. Some higher end hotels, international tour services, or private guides may accept tips, especially in tourist facing settings, but it is usually discretionary rather than required.

    Plug Type: Type A, Type C, and Type I

    Voltage: 220 V, 50 Hz

    Adapter: Commonly yes, depending on your home country and device plug type. Many travelers need a universal adapter.

    China is commonly considered fairly safe for visitors in terms of street crime, especially in well traveled urban areas. The main practical risks for tourists are payment difficulties, transport confusion, internet access limits, scams in tourist zones, road safety, and rules around registration, visas, and restricted areas.

    • Use only licensed taxis or established ride hailing apps, and confirm the destination on the map before departure.
    • Carry your hotel name and destination addresses in Chinese to show drivers or station staff.
    • Watch for common tourist scams in busy sightseeing areas, such as tea ceremony invitations, art student approaches, or inflated taxi fares.
    • Keep your passport and visa documents secure, and check whether your accommodation handles the required registration with local authorities.
    • Follow local rules carefully at stations, government buildings, border areas, and when photographing sensitive sites.
    • Air quality can vary by city and season, so travelers with asthma or other respiratory conditions should monitor local conditions.
    • Road traffic can feel fast and unpredictable, so take extra care when crossing streets even at marked crossings.

    Do

    • Carry your passport or a clear copy if required for hotel check in or ticket collection.
    • Set up payment methods before arrival and keep some cash for backup.
    • Use translation apps and save key destinations in Chinese text.
    • Queue where marked and follow station and security instructions closely.
    • Ask before photographing people, religious sites, or sensitive locations.

    Avoid

    • Do not assume your usual apps, messaging services, or maps will work without preparation.
    • Do not discuss sensitive political topics casually with strangers if you are unsure of the context.
    • Do not rely only on international credit cards for everyday purchases.
    • Do not enter restricted, military, or clearly controlled areas for photos or exploration.
    • Do not ignore local registration, visa, or extension requirements.

    Local Cultural Tips

    • Politeness and calm behavior are appreciated, especially in queues, hotels, restaurants, and public transport.
    • Exchanging items such as passports, cards, or gifts with both hands is a respectful habit in more formal situations.
    • Respect for elders and authority is important, so a patient and courteous tone usually works better than confrontation.
    • Shoes are typically kept on in shops and public places, but in some homes you may be offered slippers.
    • Crowds can be heavy at stations and tourist attractions, so expect close personal space and move with patience.
    • Rules can be enforced strictly in transport, visa, and identification matters, so keep documents and booking records accessible.
    • Greet people politely and use a calm tone.
    • Avoid causing public embarrassment or direct confrontation where possible.
    • Wait to be seated or guided in more formal restaurants.
    • Use serving utensils if provided when sharing dishes.
    • Offer and receive business cards or documents respectfully, commonly with both hands.
    // Ready When You Land

    Get Online without Chengdu Tianfu International Airport WiFi. Activate Your Free eSIM Trial When You Land

    Get a Free eSIM Trial for China When You Land at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, Then Continue with 1GB or Unlimited Data for Maps, Taxi Apps & Travel Essentials

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