Taxi vs Bus at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
Verdict
Take Bus — cheaper on typical fares.
Side by side
| Factor | Taxi | Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Option | Official metered taxi | Airport bus |
| Cost | ¥150–¥220 | ¥30 |
| Journey | 60–90 min | 70–90 min |
| Wait | 10–30 min queue | Every 30 min |
| Payment | Card & Cash | Card & Cash |
| Locals recommend |
Taxi — Official metered taxi
- ✓ Metered
- ✓ Receipt
- ! Long queue
- ! Some drivers refuse short trips
Bus — Airport bus
- ✓ Direct routes
- ! Slower than metro
Scams to watch either way
- Black cab flat rate
Unmarked cars offer ¥300–¥500 flat fares inside arrivals.
Avoid: Only use the official metered queue outside the terminal.
- Long-route padding
Drivers loop via tollways to inflate fares.
Avoid: Use Didi for fixed pricing, or screenshot the expected route.
Frequently asked
Q.Taxi or Bus from TFU — which is better?
Bus — cheaper on typical fares. Airport bus: ¥30, 70–90 min.
Q.How much is Taxi from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport?
¥150–¥220 typical. Journey 60–90 min, wait 10–30 min queue. Payment: Card & Cash.
Q.How much is Bus from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport?
¥30 typical. Journey 70–90 min, wait Every 30 min. Payment: Card & Cash.
Q.What should I watch for on arrival at TFU?
Black cab flat rate: Unmarked cars offer ¥300–¥500 flat fares inside arrivals. — Only use the official metered queue outside the terminal.
FULL ARRIVAL PLAYBOOK
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport airport exit guide Fare tiers, first-30-minute checklist, all transport options ranked, and every reported scam.