The Xi’an to Chengdu high-speed train is one of the easiest big legs in China. A morning departure, a calm ride and a sensible dinner at the other end make a comfortable day for a group of friends.
If you picture a gruelling cross-country journey, the line is much kinder than that.
How long does the journey take?
The Xi’an to Chengdu high-speed railway opened on 6 December 2017, is 510 km long and cut the trip from about 16 hours to under three hours[1].
Confirm the exact time for your train in the booking app, because services differ. A daytime seat now makes more sense than flying for most groups.
How do you book it?
Use 12306 or a third-party app, and book all seats in one order so the system keeps you close. Foreigners must show a passport to buy a long-distance ticket and to pass platform gates[2].
For the steps, read our booking guide for Malaysians. If you are not sure about seats, the seat class guide explains the options.
What is the day like?
Keep the day simple. A travel day for friends might look like this:
- Leave your Xi’an hotel with a buffer for the station.
- Arrive 30 to 40 minutes before departure at major stations[3].
- Ride, rest and snack.
- Reach Chengdu, drop your bags and eat well.
Do not add sightseeing on the same day if anyone is tired.
What about the change in altitude?
It is small. Chengdu’s urban area is at about 500 m above sea level[4]. That is far below the high Yunnan or Tibet destinations, so most travellers notice no difference.
What changes is the food, the humidity and the slower pace of Chengdu.
Where do you stay at each end?
In Xi’an, travellers who want food at the door usually stay near the Muslim Quarter, which the Great Mosque of Xi’an anchors at 30 Huajue Lane[5]. Read about staying near the Muslim Quarter before you choose.
In Chengdu, compare the city centre with the area near the station in the Chengdu station versus centre guide, or browse the Chengdu hotel areas guide.
How does it fit a bigger trip?
This leg usually sits inside a longer route. See the Beijing, Xi’an and Chengdu golden route, and extend to Chongqing with the Chengdu to Chongqing guide. The Sichuan region overview and the getting around topic page help you plan the rest.