Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站), one of the largest and busiest train hubs in Southwest China, serves as a vital transportation link for both high-speed and conventional rail travel. Whether you’re arriving in Chengdu, departing for another city, or simply transferring trains, this modern station offers convenience, efficiency, and a range of amenities to make your journey smooth.
Location and Transportation
Situated in the Chenghua District, about 8 km (5 miles) east of downtown Chengdu, the station is well-connected to the city’s public transport network:
- Metro: Lines 2 and 7 stop at Chengdu East Railway Station, providing direct access to key areas like Tianfu Square and Chunxi Road.
- Bus: Multiple bus routes (e.g., 4, 40, 71, 91) connect the station to different parts of the city.
- Taxi/Ride-hailing: Taxis and Didi (China’s Uber equivalent) are readily available outside the station.
If you’re heading to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, take Metro Line 7, which connects directly in about 30 minutes.
Station Layout and Facilities
The station is massive, with 14 platforms handling high-speed trains (G/D-series) and conventional trains (K/T/Z-series). Key sections include:
- West Plaza (西广场): Main entrance with ticketing, security, and waiting areas.
- East Plaza (东广场): Less crowded, often used for arrivals and transfers.
- Underground Concourse: Connects the metro, bus stops, and taxi stands.
Amenities & Services
- Ticket Counters & Self-Service Machines: Available on both floors (English options available).
- Waiting Lounges: Air-conditioned with seating, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi.
- Luggage Storage: Secure lockers for short-term storage (near West Plaza).
- Food & Shopping: Convenience stores, fast-food chains (KFC, McDonald’s), and local Sichuan snack vendors.
- VIP Lounges: For business-class travelers (accessible with a first-class ticket or for a fee).
- Medical Services: First-aid stations are available in case of emergencies.
Popular Train Routes from Chengdu East
Chengdu East serves as a major hub for high-speed rail across China. Key destinations include:
| Destination | Train Type | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chongqing | G/D-series | ~1.5 hours | Every 10-20 mins |
| Xi’an | G-series | ~3.5 hours | Multiple daily |
| Guiyang | G/D-series | ~3-4 hours | Frequent |
| Kunming | G-series | ~6 hours | Several daily |
| Beijing | G-series | ~8-10 hours | 5+ daily |
For local travel, Chengdu East also connects to Leshan (for the Giant Buddha), Emei Shan (for hiking), and Dujiangyan (for the ancient irrigation system).
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Arrive Early – Security checks and boarding can take time, especially during holidays.
- Use Electronic Tickets – Book via 12306.cn or apps like Trip.com, and use your passport/ID for entry.
- Follow Signage – Most signs are bilingual (Chinese/English).
- Download a Translation App – Helpful for communicating with staff if you don’t speak Mandarin.
- Avoid Rush Hours – Mornings (7-9 AM) and evenings (5-7 PM) are busiest.
Nearby Attractions
If you have a long layover, consider visiting:
- Jianchuan Museum Cluster (建川博物馆聚落) – A fascinating collection of wartime history exhibits (~1 hour by car).
- Luodai Ancient Town (洛带古镇) – A well-preserved Hakka cultural village (~40 mins by metro/bus).
Final Thoughts
Chengdu East Railway Station is a well-organized, traveler-friendly hub that makes exploring Sichuan and beyond easy. With its modern facilities, efficient transport links, and helpful services, navigating this station is a breeze—even for first-time visitors. Whether you’re hopping on a high-speed train to Chongqing or catching a metro to downtown Chengdu, this station ensures a hassle-free start or end to your journey.
