Hong Kong to Chengdu Travel Guide: Transportation, Itinerary & Practical Tips

Chengdu, the gateway to Southwest China, is the hometown of giant pandas, the birthplace of Sichuan cuisine, and a city known for its laid-back lifestyle and rich Bashu culture. Whether you’re eager to see adorable pandas, taste authentic hot pot, or explore cultural heritage sites like Mount Emei and Dujiangyan, Chengdu is the perfect starting point.

So, how do you get to Chengdu from Hong Kong in the most convenient way? This guide will walk you through all the transportation options, travel tips, and itinerary recommendations to help you enjoy a smooth and fulfilling trip.

1. How to Get from Hong Kong to Chengdu

Option 1: By Air (Fastest and Easiest)

• Flight Availability: Direct flights from Hong Kong to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport or Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport are available daily.
• Airlines: Cathay Pacific, HK Express, Air China, Sichuan Airlines, etc.
• Flight Time: Around 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Fare Estimate: One-way tickets usually range from CNY 700–1200. Book early for better prices.
• Local Transit: Upon arrival, take the metro or airport shuttle bus to downtown Chengdu—about 40 to 60 minutes.

Option 2: High-Speed Train + Transfer (For Leisure Travelers)

There are no direct high-speed trains from Hong Kong West Kowloon to Chengdu yet. You’ll need to transfer:

• Route:
  Hong Kong West Kowloon Station → Guangzhou South Station → Chengdu East Station
• Hong Kong to Guangzhou: ~1 hour
• Guangzhou to Chengdu: High-speed train takes about 7–9 hours
• Total Travel Time: Around 9–11 hours
  Fare Estimate: Second-class seat ~CNY 600–800
  Best For: Travelers who enjoy scenic journeys

Option 3: Long-Distance Bus or Self-Drive (Not Recommended)

Traveling overland by bus or car from Hong Kong to Chengdu is time-consuming and complex. It’s not efficient and only recommended for experienced overland travelers who are very familiar with the route.

2. Must-Visit Attractions in Chengdu

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Recommended tourist routes

2-Day Chengdu Panda & Food Tour: Panda Base, Jinsha Museum & More

3. Must-Try Chengdu Foods (Don’t Miss Out!)

Hotpot: Popular spots include Shu Da Xia, Xiao Long Kan, and Dezhuang

Snacks: Long Chao Shou (dumplings), Zhong Shui Jiao, Sweet Water Noodles

Skewers: Cold pot skewers, signature beef sticks

Sichuan Dishes: Chen Mapo Tofu, spicy grilled fish

Drinks/Desserts: Gaiwan tea, tofu pudding, and local ice jelly

Note: Most hotpot and skewers in Chengdu are spicy. You can request “mild” or “clear soup” options.

Hotpot

4. Accommodation Recommendations

5. Useful Travel Tips

Transportation: Chengdu’s metro is extensive and connects most major attractions

Payments: Alipay, WeChat Pay, and UnionPay cards are widely accepted

Language: Mandarin is spoken; some locals have a Sichuan accent

Weather: Four distinct seasons; summer is humid, bring a jacket for fall/winter

Safety & Etiquette: Safe city, but keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas

6. Extended Travel Routes from Chengdu

Want to travel hassle-free without planning every detail? Consider China Dragon Travel’s customized tour packages. They offer airport pickup, English/Chinese-speaking guides, tickets, and curated accommodations—ideal for stress-free travel.

Recommended Routes:

7-Day 6-Night Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou & Mount Emei Tour – Giant Pandas, Leshan Buddha & More

Begin Your Chengdu Journey with China Dragon Travel

From Hong Kong to Chengdu, you’ll be leaving behind the city bustle and entering a land of pandas, hotpot, and poetic charm.

This trip isn’t just about changing locations—it’s about tasting, seeing, and feeling the warmth and depth of Southwestern China.

Let China Dragon Travel help you unlock the best of Chengdu—freely, safely, and memorably.