Chengdu to Songpan: How to Get There by Train, Bus & Car (2026/2027 Guide)

Chengdu to Songpan by High-Speed Train: The Fastest and Easiest Way

The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Chengdu to Songpan is by high-speed train. Since Songpan Railway Station opened in 2024, reaching this historic mountain town from Chengdu has become much easier and faster.

Trains run from Chengdu East Railway Station to Songpan Station throughout the day. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, with the fastest trains taking about 1 hour 33 minutes. Most ticket prices are around CNY 125-150 for second class seats, about CNY 195 for first class seats, and around CNY 385 for business class seats.

The Chengdu to Songpan high-speed train travels through the mountainous landscapes.

Chengdu to Songpan Train Schedule and Ticket Price

Insider tips: Train schedules and ticket prices may change depending on the travel date. Please check the latest information before booking your ticket.

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How to Get from Songpan Railway Station to Songpan Ancient Town

Songpan Railway Station is about 6 km from Songpan Ancient Town. Taking a taxi is the easiest option, which usually takes 15-20 minutes and costs around CNY 15-20.

There is also a free shuttle bus from Songpan Railway Station to Songzhou Bus Station, which is about 1 km from the ancient town.

Songpan Railway Station is about 6 km from Songpan Ancient Town, with easy transfers available after arrival.

Chengdu to Songpan by Private Car: Best for a Flexible Trip

A private car from Chengdu to Songpan offers more flexibility and comfort than public transportation. You can choose your departure time, make stops along the way, and easily combine Songpan with other destinations in northern Sichuan.

The journey from Chengdu to Songpan is about 350 km and usually takes around 6-7 hours by car. You’ll be treated to beautiful mountainous landscapes along the way, and can stop in places like Wenchuan, Maoxian, and Diexi Lake to check out the natural scenery.

The cost of a private car depends on the vehicle type, travel season, and itinerary. A typical private transfer from Chengdu to Songpan costs around CNY 800-1,200 per vehicle.

Traveling from Chengdu to Songpan by private car lets you enjoy beautiful mountain scenery along the way.

Chengdu to Songpan by Bus: Is It Still Worth Taking?

Since the opening of Songpan Railway Station, taking a bus is no longer the most popular way to travel from Chengdu to Songpan. Buses are available from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station, with a journey time of around 7-8 hours. Tickets cost about CNY 109 per person.

Compared with the high-speed train, buses take much longer while offering only a small price difference. However, buses can still be an option for budget travelers who prefer traveling by road or cannot find a suitable train schedule.

Taking a bus from Chengdu to Songpan is a budget-friendly option for travelers heading to Songpan by road.

Can You Fly from Chengdu to Songpan?

Songpan does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, located about 55 km from Songpan Ancient Town.

Currently, direct flights are available from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport twice a week (Monday and Wednesday). The flight takes about 55 minutes.

After arriving at Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, travelers need to continue by road to Songpan. The transfer takes around 1 hour by car, with taxis and ride-hailing services available at the airport.

Due to limited flight schedules and the additional airport transfer, taking the high-speed train is usually a more convenient option for most travelers.

After arriving at Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, you can take a taxi to continue your journey to Songpan.

How to Plan a Chengdu to Songpan Trip?

Songpan is easy to visit from Chengdu as a short trip or as part of a longer journey to Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou. If you only want to explore Songpan Ancient Town and nearby attractions, 2 days is usually enough. If you want to combine Songpan with Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou, plan around 3-5 days.

A popular itinerary is to travel from Chengdu to Songpan first, then continue to Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou. You can take the high-speed train to Songpan, explore the ancient town, and continue the rest of the journey by car. This is a convenient way to visit these highlights of northern Sichuan without unnecessary backtracking.

If you have more time, you can spend an extra day or several days around Songpan to visit Munigou Valley, go horse trekking, or trek through Qizanggou Valley before continuing your journey.

If you have more time in Songpan, you can visit Munigou Valley to enjoy its waterfalls.

Chengdu to Songpan FAQs

How Far Is Songpan from Chengdu?

Songpan is about 270 km from Chengdu by railway. The road distance varies depending on the route and your final destination in Songpan County.

How long does it take from Chengdu to Songpan by train?

A direct high-speed train from Chengdu East Railway Station to Songpan Railway Station takes around 1.5-2.5 hours, making it the fastest way to travel between the two places.

Is there a direct train from Chengdu to Songpan?

Yes. Direct high-speed trains run from Chengdu East Railway Station to Songpan Railway Station every day. Train schedules may change, so check the latest timetable before booking.

How much is a train ticket from Chengdu to Songpan?

A second-class ticket usually costs around CNY 135, while first-class seats cost around CNY 216. Tickets can be purchased through China Railway’s 12306 website/app or third-party platforms such as Trip.com.

Which railway station should I use from Chengdu to Songpan?

You should take the train from Chengdu East Railway Station and arrive at Songpan Railway Station. Chengdu has several railway stations, so make sure you go to the correct station before departure.

Can I travel from Chengdu to Songpan and Huanglong in one day?

Yes, it is technically possible to travel from Chengdu to Songpan and Huanglong in one day. Departing early from Chengdu can get you to Songpan in the early morning. You can briefly explore Songpan and then continue to Huanglong by train or private car and arrive in the evening. However, it’s a rushed itinerary. Most travelers prefer spending one night in Songpan and then continuing to Huanglong the next day.

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Price From: USD 465

Conclusion

Traveling from Chengdu to Songpan is now much easier than before. The high-speed train is the fastest and most convenient option for most travelers, while buses and private cars are also available. You can also fly from Chengdu to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport and then continue to Songpan by road.

Songpan is a good place to include in a trip from Chengdu to northern Sichuan. You can explore Songpan Ancient Town and then continue your journey to Huanglong, Jiuzhaigou, or other nearby destinations. It is also a great base for travelers interested in trekking and the mountain scenery around Songpan.

If you are planning a Songpan tour from Chengdu, we can help you arrange transportation, hotels, sightseeing, and other travel services. We can also customize your itinerary to combine Songpan with Huanglong, Jiuzhaigou, Chengdu, and other destinations in Sichuan based on your travel time and interests.