What’s New in Chengdu This Autumn 2024: Flights, Trains, Events & More
Finally, the city is cooling down, so it’s time to leave our air-conditioned caves. Autumn (or Fall for our American friends) is one of the best times to explore Sichuan. The weather is crisp, and there’s plenty to do. New international flights, a high-speed train to Jiuzhaigou, sightseeing buses, and exciting events make this season full of possibilities. Here’s what’s new in Chengdu this autumn.
✈️ New Direct International Flight Routes
As part of what’s new in Chengdu Autumn 2024, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport launched direct flights to cities including Milan (Italy), Penang (Malaysia), and added more flights to Addis Ababa, Seoul, and Singapore.
Earlier this year, Chengdu also launched routes to Panglao Island (Philippines), Kota Kinabalu, and Tawau City (Malaysia), strengthening its global connectivity.
🚄 Bullet Train Service to Songpan, Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong
One of the biggest highlights in Chengdu for 2024 is the opening of the Zhenjiang Pass to Huangsheng Pass section of the Chengdu–Xining Railway. This new stretch officially opened on August 30, 2024, following the completion of its construction.
With this addition, travel times to popular scenic spots have been drastically reduced. For example, bullet trains from Chengdu Dong Railway Station now take just 1 hour and 33 minutes to reach Songpan County. Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are only 1 hour and 39 minutes away, while Huangsheng Pass takes 1 hour and 54 minutes.
Even better, second-class seats from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong start at just RMB128. Additionally, the new railway line makes transfers between Shuangliu Airport and the scenic areas much easier. Now, the journey between the airport and Jiuzhaigou or Huanglong takes just 2 hours and 36 minutes.
👉 This is just one of many recent upgrades to Sichuan’s transport infrastructure. Read more about the metro, rail, and air improvements here.
🎯 The World Games 2025 Chengdu: One Year Countdown
As part of the lead-up to what’s new in Chengdu 2024, the 12th World Games countdown begins. From August 7–17, 2025, Chengdu will host 254 sports events across 61 categories. Sports lovers can gear up early!
Here is the recently published schedule of TWG 2025 Chengdu:
🛍️ Downtown Duty-Free Store Opens
Another exciting update under what’s new in Chengdu 2024 is the launch of Chengdu’s first downtown duty-free store. Starting October 1, travelers will be able to shop for duty-free goods in the city and pick up their items at the airport before departure.
The downtown duty-free store, approved by the State Council, will be located in central areas of the city. It will sell duty-free goods to outbound travelers. Specifically, the target customers include Chinese nationals and other travelers leaving the country by air or international cruise within 60 days.
Moreover, customers can make purchases in advance at the store. Then, they can collect their items at designated pickup points at departure ports before heading to their international destinations.
🏃 East Asian Half Marathon Championships 2024
🚌 Chengdu Sightseeing Bus Route Updated
What’s new in Chengdu Autumn 2024 for urban explorers? The sightseeing bus has optimized its schedule and route:
- Shorter wait times on weekends
- Stops at Tianfu Twin Towers, SKP, UFun Mall, M·Cube, Wanda Plaza, Global Center, Magic Garden City, and more
A convenient way to enjoy Chengdu’s landmarks, especially with the cooler weather.
To improve the passenger experience, the sightseeing route now has updated weekend departure times. Additionally, bus intervals have been shortened to offer more frequent service. These changes make the ride more convenient and efficient. At the same time, passengers can enjoy a more direct and immersive view of the city while taking in Chengdu’s vibrant urban landscape.
🌟 Michelin Guide 2025: Chengdu Edition
For the fourth year, the Michelin Guide has reviewed Chengdu’s rich food scene. The 2025 edition brings some fresh additions to the Bib Gourmand and selected restaurant lists, with no major star changes.
That’s great news for fans of fly restaurants, Chengdu’s beloved casual eateries that unite all walks of life. They’re an essential part of the local dining culture.
For all the details, click here.
🧪 CDIS Launches STEAM Clubs and Classes
Chengdu International School has launched new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) clubs and classes for elementary and middle school students. At CDIS, STEAM goes beyond the classroom. It supports all aspects of learning, from information processing to real-world problem-solving. This forward-thinking program is a highlight of what’s new in Chengdu 2024.
🎓 Léman Parent Academy 2024–2025
The newly designed Parent Academy helps connect the school with Léman families and supports students’ success. This year, it launched early in September. Over the school year, 10 events will be held, along with “Tea and Chats” and “Parent Information” sessions.
The program began on September 3rd and runs until May 5th, 2025. Topics include effective teaching, anti-bullying strategies, how children learn to read and write, the role of feedback, and online safety. It’s another great community effort among what’s new in Chengdu 2024!
For more information and registration, click here.
