Shuangliu Airport Railway Station

Shuangliu Airport Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide to Chengdu Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Shuangliu Airport Railway Station, located beneath Terminal 2 of Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, is a pivotal transport hub in western China. Since its opening in December 2014, the station has been a cornerstone in integrating air, high-speed rail, and metro travel, transforming the way travelers access Chengdu and the wider Sichuan region. This guide offers a comprehensive look at the station’s history, design, operational features, visiting hours, ticketing procedures, station facilities, travel tips, and nearby cultural attractions—including the renowned Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei. Whether you are visiting Chengdu for the first time or are a frequent traveler, this resource will help you navigate the station and make the most of your journey (Travel China With Me, China Train 12306, China Highlights).

Introduction
Historical Development
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Station Facilities and Accessibility
Transportation Integration
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Additional Resources & Sources
Conclusion

Historical Development

Origins and Planning

Chengdu’s rapid urban growth and the increasing volume of air travel at Shuangliu International Airport necessitated an integrated transportation solution. Conceived as part of the Chengdu–Guiyang High-Speed Railway and the Chengdu-Mianyang-Leshan Intercity Rail Line, Shuangliu Airport Railway Station was strategically planned to provide seamless transfers between air and rail, supporting the city’s emergence as a major regional transport hub (Travel China With Me, Wikipedia).

Construction and Inauguration

Built directly beneath Terminal 2, the fully underground station opened on December 20, 2014, aligning with the launch of the Chengdu–Guiyang High-Speed Railway. This development provided rapid, direct rail access from the airport to numerous cities in Sichuan and beyond (China Train 12306).

Architectural and Operational Features

The station features two underground levels:

B1 Floor: Main ticketing hall with staffed counters, self-service machines, waiting lounges, and direct connections to airport terminals and Metro Line 10.
B2 Floor: Train platforms for arrivals and departures, designed for efficient passenger flow with escalators and elevators.

With two platforms and six rail lines, the station is engineered for high throughput and rapid transfers (China Train 12306).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Visiting Hours

Shuangliu Airport Railway Station operates daily from approximately 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, coordinated with train and metro schedules. Arriving at least 30 minutes before your departure is advised for ticketing and security procedures.

Ticket Prices and Purchasing

Ticket Prices: Fares start at CNY 8 for short trips within Chengdu; longer journeys cost more depending on the destination and train class (C, D, G trains).
Purchase Locations: Tickets can be purchased via official railway websites, mobile apps, self-service kiosks, or staffed windows at the station. Both cash and electronic payments are accepted, with English signage available for international travelers (China Train 12306).
Tip: Book tickets online in advance, especially during holidays or peak travel seasons, for a smoother journey.

Station Facilities and Accessibility

Layout and Passenger Services

Ticketing: Staffed counters and multilingual self-service machines.
Waiting Areas: Climate-controlled lounges, priority seating for elderly and disabled, VIP lounges.
Baggage Services: Free trolleys, secure storage, and porter assistance.
Accessibility: Full barrier-free access, tactile paving, ramps, and elevators.
Food & Retail: Diverse dining options, retail shops, ATMs, currency exchange, free Wi-Fi, and charging stations.
Special Assistance: Family-friendly amenities, first aid, and emergency services.

Transfers and Flow

Dedicated corridors connect the railway concourse (B1) directly to airport terminals, minimizing transfer times.
Security checkpoints and clearly marked signage ensure smooth and safe passenger movement.

Transportation Integration

Air, Rail, and Metro Connections

Airport Link: Under Terminal 2, a covered passage connects directly to the departure and arrival halls.
Metro: Linked to Chengdu Metro Line 10, providing fast access to city center locations like Tianfu Square in about 30 minutes (China Highlights, Travel China Guide).
High-Speed Trains: Up to 27 pairs of high-speed trains daily, connecting to Chengdu East, Leshan, Emeishan, Meishan East, Mianyang, Jiangyou, and more (China Train 12306).

Nearby Attractions

Leshan Giant Buddha

Description: The world’s largest stone Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site standing 71 meters tall, carved during the Tang Dynasty.
How to Get There: High-speed train from Shuangliu Airport Railway Station to Leshan Railway Station (approx. 1 hour), then local transport to the site.
Visiting Hours: 7:30 AM–6:00 PM
Tickets: Adults approx. RMB 90; discounts for students, seniors, and free entry for children under 1.2 meters (Leshan Giant Buddha Official Website)
Tips: Visit early or late for fewer crowds. Boat tours offer unique panoramic views.

Mount Emei

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its scenic landscapes and ancient Buddhist temples, easily accessible from Leshan.

Other Chengdu Historical Sites

Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street: Reachable via metro for a taste of Chengdu’s rich cultural heritage.

Travel Tips

Arrive Early: Allow at least 45–60 minutes for transfers and ticketing.
International Travelers: Bring your passport for ticket purchase and collection.
Mobile Apps: Download China Railway 12306 for schedules and ticketing; translation apps are useful as not all staff speak English.
Payments: Mobile payments widely accepted; international credit card acceptance is limited.
Free Wi-Fi: Registration may require a Chinese phone number.
Accessibility: Station and Leshan Buddha site are accessible, but some paths may be steep.
Weather: Spring and autumn offer the best travel conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the station’s operating hours?
A1: Daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Q2: How do I purchase train tickets?
A2: Online via official railway platforms, mobile apps, station kiosks, or ticket counters.

Q3: Is the station accessible for disabled passengers?
A3: Yes, with barrier-free access, ramps, elevators, and tactile paving.

Q4: How do I transfer between airport, trains, and metro?
A4: Direct corridors connect the railway station with Terminal 2 and Metro Line 10.

Q5: What are the top attractions accessible from the station?
A5: Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei, and key Chengdu historical sites.

Additional Resources & Sources

Conclusion

Shuangliu Airport Railway Station is a benchmark of modern transportation infrastructure, offering seamless connections between air, rail, and metro travel. Its strategic position and comprehensive facilities ensure a comfortable and efficient transit experience for all travelers. As the gateway to both Chengdu’s urban attractions and the cultural wonders of Sichuan—such as the Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei—the station is the ideal starting point for your journey. For the best travel experience, plan ahead, use recommended travel apps, and explore the wealth of historical and cultural sites accessible from Chengdu.

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