Chengdu Metro — Maps, Tickets, Transfers & Tips
The Chengdu Metro is fast, clean, and the easiest way to cross the city. With color-coded lines, clear English signage, and phone-friendly payment, it’s perfect for au pairs and students heading to class, language exchanges, or weekend outings.
Tickets & Payment Options
QR Ride Code (WeChat/Alipay)
- Open your app’s Ride Code (乘车码), scan at the gate to enter/exit.
- Auto-deducts fare afterward; no need to top up manually.
- Keep your screen bright and data on for refresh.
Transit Card & Single Tickets
- Transit card: Reloadable; tap in/out like a local.
- Single-journey token: Buy at vending machines; insert at exit.
- Great backup if your phone battery runs low.
See our “QR Metro Payment” page for a step-by-step setup with troubleshooting.
How to Ride (Step by Step)
- Security check: Bags go through scanners at station entrances.
- Enter: Scan your QR / tap card / insert token at the turnstile.
- Navigate: Follow color-coded line signs; transfer corridors are well marked.
- Platform: Queue behind the line, let passengers off first.
- Exit & pay: Scan/tap again; the system calculates your fare automatically.
Transfers, Hours & Frequency
- Transfers: Look for “Transfer/换乘” signs; allow extra time at big interchanges.
- Service hours: Typically early morning to late evening; always check the last-train time posted on platform boards for your direction.
- Frequency: Short waits at peak; slightly longer late evenings.
- Rush hours: ~07:30–09:30 and ~17:30–19:30—stand back from doors and keep backpacks low.
Airports & Intercity Connections
- Airport access: Metro lines serve both city airports; follow in-station “Airport/机场” signage for your terminal.
- Rail hubs: Major railway stations connect directly to the metro—ideal for weekend trips.
- Plan ahead: Airport/rail transfers can be far inside the station; add 10–20 minutes walking time.
Accessibility & Traveling with Kids
- Elevators & lifts: Available at most stations; look for the ♿ symbol.
- Priority seating: Marked in each car—offer your seat to those who need it.
- Strollers: Fold for security and busy trains; use wide gates at turnstiles.
Safety, Etiquette & Smart Habits
- Stand right, walk left on escalators unless local signage says otherwise.
- No eating or smoking on trains; water is fine but avoid messes.
- Mind the gap: Step carefully; obey platform staff during crowding.
- Keep valuables zipped in crowded carriages and transfer tunnels.
- Battery check: Carry a mini power bank if you rely on QR codes.
Simple Journey Planner (Example)
- Search destination in your maps app → note the line number & direction.
- Open your Ride Code before the gate; increase screen brightness.
- At transfer, follow the line color and arrows; don’t exit the paid area.
- On the platform, confirm you’re on the correct direction using the station list above the doors.
- On arrival, scan/tap to exit → follow Exits A/B/C… for the closest street to your destination.
Common Issues & Quick Fixes
- QR won’t scan: Refresh the code; raise brightness; try another gate.
- Insufficient funds/card error: Switch to your backup (token/transit card) and top up later.
- Missed last train: Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing; share your trip with a friend on WeChat.
- Wrong exit: Re-enter via the concourse to switch exits if allowed, or walk above ground—exits are close together downtown.
Useful Vocabulary
- 地铁 (dìtiě) — metro/subway
- 进站 / 出站 — enter / exit the station
- 换乘 — transfer
- 首班车 / 末班车 — first / last train
- 站台 — platform
- 安检 — security check
- 乘车码 — ride code (QR)
- 站内换乘 — in-station transfer (stay inside gates)
Master Chengdu Metro with Masons Au Pair
We’ll help you set up QR payment, map safe night routes, and choose the right exits for schools, teahouses, and meetups— so every ride is smooth and stress-free.
Join Our Au Pair Program