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Open WhatsApp ChatTianfu (TFU) & Shuangliu (CTU) to downtown & Panda Base with English-speaking driver. Home of pandas, hotpot, and tea culture. Fixed price.
The laid-back capital of Sichuan — home to giant pandas, fiery hotpot, and 3,000 years of tea culture.
The name "Chengdu" (成都) means "Becoming a Capital." According to legend, the city was named after the ancient Shu king who declared "one year to build, two years to settle, three years to become a capital." It has served as the capital of Sichuan Province for over 2,300 years. Known as the "Land of Abundance" (天府之国), Chengdu sits on the fertile Chengdu Plain, fed by the Dujiangyan irrigation system built in 256 BC.
Chengdu is western China's educational hub with over 60 universities. Sichuan University (founded 1896, ranked top 50 in Asia) and University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) (one of China's "Seven Sons of National Defence") are the most prestigious. The city is also home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of the world's leading panda research centers.
Chengdu's metro system has 13 lines covering 500+ km, making it one of China's fastest-growing networks. The airport line connects Tianfu Airport (TFU) to the city center in 45 minutes. However, the Panda Base and Dujiangyan are not reachable by metro. Our private car service is the most convenient way to visit these suburban attractions, especially with a knowledgeable driver who knows the best routes.
Chengdu sits on the fertile Chengdu Plain, surrounded by the Longmen Mountains to the west and the Qionglai Mountains to the southwest. The Dujiangyan irrigation system, built 2,200 years ago, still diverts water from the Min River to the plain. The city is famous for its laid-back lifestyle, with more teahouses than any other city in the world. The surrounding mountains are a biodiversity hotspot, home to the giant panda and golden snub-nosed monkey.
Discover the treasures of Sichuan's capital with a private driver.
Fixed-price private car service for Chengdu's most popular journeys.
~50 km · 60–80 min
Tianfu International Airport (TFU) opened in 2021 and is Chengdu's main international gateway. Located 50 km southeast of the city, it's far from downtown. Our private car picks you up at the arrival hall, tracks your flight for delays, and delivers you directly to your hotel in Jinjiang, Chenghua, or Wuhou districts.
~16 km · 25–35 min
Shuangliu Airport (CTU) is closer to downtown and mainly serves domestic flights. Our private car service is the fastest way to reach hotels in the city center. No waiting in taxi queues — your driver meets you at the arrival hall with a name board.
Full day · 8 hours · Custom itinerary
Visit the Giant Panda Base in the morning (8 AM–10 AM for active pandas), then drive to the Dujiangyan irrigation system and Mount Qingcheng. Your driver waits at each location and knows the best route to maximize your time. A perfect introduction to Chengdu's natural and cultural heritage.
8 hours · Business vehicle · Custom itinerary
Visit the Panda Base, Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Street, People's Park, and a Sichuan Opera show in one day. Your driver knows the best routes, parking, and timing. Add a fluent English guide for deeper insights into Chengdu's 3,000-year history.
Everything you need to know about arriving in Chengdu and reaching your hotel.
Southeast of the city · 50 km to Tianfu Square
Opened in 2021, TFU is Chengdu's main international gateway and one of the world's largest airports by terminal size. It has two terminals (T1 and T2) connected by an automated people mover. The airport express metro reaches downtown in 45 minutes, but with luggage after a long flight, a private car is the most comfortable option. By road, expect 60–80 minutes to Tianfu Square or Jinjiang District.
Southwest of the city · 16 km to Tianfu Square
CTU is closer to downtown and mainly serves domestic flights. It has two terminals: Terminal 1 (domestic) and Terminal 2 (domestic and some international). The airport is connected to the metro system. A private car to downtown hotels typically takes 25–35 minutes.
High-speed hub · 20 min to Tianfu Square
The main station for high-speed trains to Chongqing, Xi'an, Guiyang, and most domestic destinations. It's one of western China's largest railway stations. A private car pickup is recommended as the station is large and taxi queues can be long.
Regional & suburban · Wuhou District
Mainly serves regional trains to southern Sichuan and suburban lines. It's smaller than the East Station but convenient for travelers staying in the south of the city.
Tibet routes · Qingyang District
The main station for trains to western Sichuan and Tibet, including the scenic Chengdu–Lhasa railway. It's also used for some freight services. The station is currently being expanded.
Historic station · Under renovation
Chengdu's original main station is currently closed for major renovation. Most services have been relocated to the East Station. Check your ticket carefully to confirm the departure station.
For Dujiangyan · 60 km northwest
If you're visiting the Dujiangyan irrigation system and Mount Qingcheng, you can take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan in 30 minutes. Our driver can also take you directly in about 1 hour.
We meet you at the exit with a name board and help with luggage.
Book Station TransferCapture the city from the most iconic and photogenic angles.
Best at opening time
Pandas are most active at feeding time (8–10 AM). The morning mist, bamboo groves, and adorable pandas make for unforgettable photos. Arrive before the tour buses for the best shots.
Best after dark
The red lanterns, traditional architecture, and glowing shop signs of Jinli Street create a magical atmosphere. The golden light reflecting off the stone pavement is perfect for moody, atmospheric shots.
Best in early morning mist
The terraced tea fields west of Chengdu, draped in morning mist, offer serene landscape photography. Local tea pickers in traditional hats add a human element to the lush green hillsides.
Best on a clear morning
The "Most Tranquil Mountain Under Heaven" offers misty forest paths, ancient Taoist temples, and panoramic views from the summit. The interplay of light through the ancient cedars is magical.
Best in late afternoon
The restored Qing Dynasty courtyard houses, with their carved wooden doors and traditional brick walls, offer a glimpse into old Chengdu. The golden hour light brings out the warm tones of the ancient architecture.
Best at blue hour
The illuminated Anshun Bridge reflected in the Jinjiang River, with the downtown skyline behind it, is one of Chengdu's most photogenic night scenes. The riverside bars add vibrant foreground interest.
Chengdu's most famous food experience. A bubbling pot of spicy chili oil broth where you cook thinly sliced meat, vegetables, and tofu. The numbing sensation from Sichuan peppercorns (málà) is addictive. Your driver can recommend the best local hotpot spot away from tourist traps.
Silky tofu in a spicy sauce of fermented black beans, chili oil, and minced pork. Created in Chengdu over 150 years ago. The authentic version is much spicier than what you find abroad. Your driver knows the best Mapo Tofu restaurant near People's Park.
Chewy noodles tossed in a spicy sauce of chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, preserved vegetables, and minced pork. Named after the pole (dan dan) that street vendors carried. A Chengdu street food classic.
A Chengdu delicacy that adventurous foodies must try. Spiced rabbit heads are braised and then deep-fried, creating a crispy, flavorful snack. The locals say "no rabbit can leave Chengdu alive" because they're so beloved. Your driver can find the best vendor.
Chengdu's most famous shopping street, with international brands, local boutiques, and street food. The pedestrian area is always bustling. Your driver can drop you at the main entrance and pick you up after shopping.
A beautifully restored ancient street with traditional architecture, handicrafts, and street food. Perfect for Sichuan opera masks, bamboo carvings, and tea. Your driver can drop you at the entrance and suggest the best local snacks.
Three parallel alleys (Wide, Narrow, and Well) restored from Qing Dynasty architecture. Filled with boutiques, art galleries, teahouses, and upscale restaurants. A great place to experience Chengdu's traditional culture with a modern twist.
Chengdu's premier luxury shopping destination with international brands, a rooftop garden with a giant panda sculpture, and gourmet restaurants. Your driver can pick you up after shopping and take you directly to the airport or your hotel.
Hand-painted Sichuan opera masks make stunning wall art. Each color represents a character trait. You can also find small face-changing dolls that rotate through masks with a flick of the wrist. Best bought at Jinli Street or Shu Feng Ya Yun Theatre.
Chengdu is famous for its intricate bamboo carving tradition. Master carvers create miniature sculptures, calligraphy brushes, and decorative items from local bamboo. The Qiongzhu Bamboo Carving is a recognized intangible heritage.
Bring the taste of Sichuan home. Buy premium Sichuan peppercorns (the numbing "málà" sensation) and artisan chili oil from local markets. The best peppercorns come from Hanyuan County. Your driver knows the best spice shops.
One of China's four famous brocades, Shu brocade features intricate patterns woven with silk and gold thread. The technique dates back over 2,000 years. Scarves, wall hangings, and accessories make luxurious souvenirs. Find them at the Shu Brocade Museum.
Meet the traditional arts that have defined Chengdu for centuries — and the artisans keeping them alive.
UNESCO-listed intangible heritage. Sichuan Opera is famous for its face-changing technique, where performers switch masks in the blink of an eye using hidden silk threads. The art has been practiced for over 300 years and requires years of secret training.
Where to experience it: Shu Feng Ya Yun Tea House near Wuhou Shrine, or the Sichuan Opera Theatre. Ask your driver to book tickets in advance.
Chengdu has more teahouses than any other city in China. The traditional "gaiwan" (lidded bowl) tea ceremony is a daily ritual for locals. Tea masters perform long-spout kettle pouring, a skill that takes years to master.
Where to experience it: Heming Teahouse in People's Park, or any traditional teahouse in the Wide & Narrow Alleys.
One of China's four great embroidery styles, Shu Embroidery is known for its fine needlework, vibrant colors, and realistic depictions of pandas, fish, and flowers. The technique originated in Chengdu over 2,000 years ago.
Where to find it: Shu Embroidery Museum and workshops in the Qingyang District. Some masters offer demonstrations.
A traditional craft from the Qionglai Mountains near Chengdu, where master carvers transform bamboo roots into intricate sculptures, calligraphy sets, and decorative items. The technique requires understanding the natural grain and shape of each bamboo piece.
Where to find it: Qionglai Bamboo Carving Museum, or select shops in the Wide & Narrow Alleys.
Mianzhu New Year paintings are a traditional folk art from nearby Mianzhu County, featuring bold colors, auspicious symbols, and scenes from daily life. Printed from hand-carved woodblocks and then hand-painted, they are a vibrant part of Sichuan's cultural heritage.
Where to find it: Mianzhu New Year Painting Museum (1.5 hours from Chengdu) or folk art shops in Jinli Street.
A traditional form of solo singing accompanied by a small ensemble, Qingyin features melodic, expressive vocals in the Sichuan dialect. The songs tell stories of love, nature, and daily life in the Chengdu Plain.
Where to experience it: Traditional teahouses and cultural venues in the city center. Ask your driver for current performance schedules.
Insider tips to help you experience Chengdu like a local.
The Giant Panda Base opens at 7:30 AM. Arrive early to see the pandas at their most active during feeding time (8–9 AM). By 10 AM, they're mostly sleeping. Your driver can pick you up at 7 AM to beat the crowds.
Chengdu's teahouse culture is legendary. Go to People's Park, order a gaiwan of jasmine tea, and watch locals play mahjong, practice tai chi, and get their ears cleaned. It's the most authentic Chengdu experience.
Sichuan food is fiery. Start with "wei la" (mildly spicy) and work your way up. The numbing sensation from Sichuan peppercorns is addictive but can be overwhelming. Your driver can recommend the right spice level for beginners.
Spring: Peach blossoms in Longquan. Summer: Cool escapes to Qingcheng Mountain. Autumn: Ginkgo Avenue at People's Park. Winter: Hotpot and warm teahouses.
The best Sichuan Opera shows, especially at Shu Feng Ya Yun, sell out quickly. Book at least 2–3 days ahead. The evening shows (8 PM) are the most atmospheric, with full face-changing performances.
Combine both attractions in one day: Dujiangyan in the morning, then drive to Qingcheng Mountain for an afternoon hike. Your driver can wait at each location and knows the best local restaurants for a Sichuan lunch.
Explore Sichuan's natural and cultural wonders with a private car.
Custom itineraries, flexible timing, and door-to-door service with an English-speaking driver.
Book a Chengdu Day TripThe Land of Abundance shines in every season.
Mar–May · 15–25°C
Mild and blooming. Peach blossoms in Longquan and pleasant temperatures for exploring the city and panda base.
Highlights: Panda base visits, teahouse culture
Jun–Aug · 24–33°C
Hot and humid but perfect for mountain escapes to Qingcheng or Emei. Early morning panda visits are essential.
Highlights: Mountain retreats, river teahouses
Sep–Nov · 15–22°C
The best season — clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and golden ginkgo. Perfect for hiking and outdoor dining.
Highlights: Ginkgo Avenue, hotpot season
Dec–Feb · 5–12°C
Cool and damp with occasional fog. The best time for hotpot, Sichuan opera, and cozy teahouse afternoons.
Highlights: Hotpot dinners, indoor cultural shows
A few words go a long way with your driver and locals.
你好
Hello — The universal greeting. Your driver will appreciate the effort.
谢谢
Thank you — Use it often. Chinese people value politeness highly.
我想去...
I want to go to... — Essential for telling your driver the destination.
多少钱？
How much is this? — Useful for shopping and street food.
厕所在哪里？
Where is the bathroom? — Always good to know when exploring.
Fixed price, English-speaking driver, free flight tracking. From TFU or CTU to any Chengdu hotel or the Panda Base.
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