Chengdu Goldenport Circuit

Chengdu Goldenport Circuit: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in Chengdu

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Chengdu Goldenport Circuit, located in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, was a premier motorsport venue that played a pivotal role in China’s racing landscape. Since its opening in the late 2000s, this FIA-certified facility not only hosted major international and national motorsport events but also contributed to the local community, tourism, and economic development. While the original circuit was closed and demolished in 2019, its legacy endures in Chengdu’s motorsport culture and ongoing discussions about future venues. This guide explores the circuit’s history, significance, visitor information, and its place within Chengdu’s vibrant tourism ecosystem (Goldenport Group; CTCC Official; FIA GT News).

Significance and History of Chengdu Goldenport Circuit
Track Design and Visitor Facilities
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Major Motorsport Events
Integration with Chengdu’s Tourism and Culture
Community Engagement and Economic Impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visitor Tips and Practical Information
Summary and Legacy
References and External Links

Significance and History of Chengdu Goldenport Circuit

The Chengdu Goldenport Circuit was conceived as part of a broader effort to foster motorsport culture in western China. Developed by the Goldenport Group, the circuit sought to complement Beijing’s established Goldenport Park Circuit and introduce world-class racing to Sichuan Province. Construction began in 2007, and the track opened officially in 2009, coinciding with Chengdu’s rapid urban growth (Goldenport Group). Its establishment marked Chengdu as an important hub for sports tourism and international racing.

Engineering challenges—such as building on reclaimed swampland in an earthquake-prone zone—resulted in a notably bumpy racing surface, which became a distinctive feature and posed unique challenges for drivers (RacingCircuits.info). In its operational years, the circuit hosted a range of prestigious events, including the China Touring Car Championship (CTCC), China GT Championship, and the FIA GT Championship’s first Chinese race in 2009 (CTCC Official; FIA GT News).

Despite its early success, pressures from urban development led to the circuit’s closure and demolition beginning in 2019. However, its impact on local motorsport culture and tourism remains significant (Asia Motorsports Network).

Track Design and Visitor Facilities

Chengdu Goldenport Circuit featured a 3.331-kilometer (2.07-mile) track with 14 turns, combining long straights and technical corners ideal for both high-speed racing and driver skill development (RacingCircuits.info). Track widths ranged from 12 to 15 meters, supporting safe overtaking and competitive racing.

The circuit’s visitor facilities included:

Modern pit and paddock complexes
Grandstands with capacity for thousands
VIP lounges and media centers
Karting tracks and driver training centers
Ample parking and wheelchair-accessible areas

These amenities made the circuit suitable for a broad audience, from motorsport enthusiasts to families and tourists (Did You Know Cars).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours:
The circuit operated from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on event days, with limited access on non-event days. Guided tours were available by appointment.

Ticketing:

General admission tickets ranged from 50 to 150 RMB, depending on the event and seating.
VIP and hospitality packages offered premium experiences.
Tickets were available online via official channels and at on-site ticket offices during events.

Accessibility:

Wheelchair access with ramps and designated seating was provided.
Visitor information and assistance were available in both Chinese and, to a limited extent, English.

Getting There:
Located in Jinniu District, about 20 km from downtown Chengdu, the circuit was accessible by taxi, ride-hailing apps, and public transport. Major hotels and tour operators often included the circuit in their sightseeing packages (Chengdu Tourism Bureau).

Note: The circuit was demolished in 2019. The above information is for historical reference and for understanding its legacy.

Major Motorsport Events

Chengdu Goldenport Circuit earned international recognition by hosting:

The 2009 FIA GT Championship (China’s first FIA GT event)
China Touring Car Championship (CTCC)
China GT Championship
Asian Formula Renault Series
Porsche Carrera Cup Asia and Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia (CTCC Official; FIA GT News)

Additionally, the circuit hosted the 2008 A1 Grand Prix, with proceeds donated to Sichuan earthquake relief—highlighting its commitment to social responsibility (Motorsport Magazine).

Local championships, like the Sichuan Touring Car Elite (STCE) series, fostered grassroots motorsport, encouraging participation among amateur racers (Asia Motorsports Network).

Integration with Chengdu’s Tourism and Culture

The circuit contributed to Chengdu’s diverse tourism landscape, complementing the city’s famed attractions such as the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Jinli Ancient Street, and Wuhou Shrine (China Highlights). Event weekends boosted hospitality and retail sectors, while car shows, music festivals, and corporate gatherings enriched the city’s cultural calendar (Chengdu Auto Show).

Motorsport at Goldenport Circuit introduced an adrenaline-fueled dimension to Chengdu’s appeal, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

Community Engagement and Economic Impact

The circuit’s regular events drew over 30,000 spectators during peak weekends, generating significant revenue for the local economy and supporting jobs in hospitality, event management, and technical services (Chengdu Government). Partnerships with educational institutions promoted skills development in motorsport engineering and management.

Sustainability initiatives included waste reduction, energy-efficient lighting, and noise control, while community programs emphasized road safety and motorsport education (Motorsport.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit Chengdu Goldenport Circuit today?
A: The circuit was permanently closed and demolished in 2019. However, motorsport fans can visit other racing venues in Chengdu or explore the city’s automotive museums.

Q: What made Chengdu Goldenport Circuit unique?
A: The circuit was known for its challenging, bumpy surface, international-standard facilities, and its role in supporting both elite and grassroots racing.

Q: Are there plans for a new motorsport venue in Chengdu?
A: There are ongoing discussions about building a new, Formula 1-grade circuit in the city (Asia Motorsports Network).

Q: What are the top nearby attractions?
A: Chengdu’s must-see sites include the Giant Panda Base, Jinli Ancient Street, Wuhou Shrine, Mount Qingcheng, and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (China Highlights).

Visitor Tips and Practical Information

Travel: Use taxis or ride-hailing apps for the most direct access to motorsport venues. Public transport is available but may require additional transfers.
Accommodation: Chengdu offers diverse options, from international hotel chains to boutique lodgings. Book early during major events (Touristlink).
Weather: Chengdu has a humid, subtropical climate—prepare for hot, rainy summers and mild winters (Weather25).
Language: English is spoken at major hotels, but learning a few Mandarin phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
Payment: Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used; bring cash for smaller vendors.
Safety: Standard venue security checks apply. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.

Summary and Legacy

Although the Chengdu Goldenport Circuit has closed, its influence persists in the region’s motorsport culture, tourism, and economic development. It set a benchmark for western China, inspiring future projects and leaving a lasting legacy in Chengdu’s identity (Asia Motorsports Network; Motorsport.com). Motorsport enthusiasts and visitors can still immerse themselves in Chengdu’s vibrant automotive scene while enjoying the city’s cultural and natural wonders.

For the latest updates on motorsport events, tourism, and travel tips in Chengdu, follow official channels, download the Audiala app, and consult reputable sources.