Guangzhou Metro: Map, Hours & Tips

See how to ride Guangzhou Metro like a local: complete Guangzhou subway map, hours, tickets & tips!

Guangzhou Metro Map 2026

Credit: Wikipedia, See Full Guangzhou Metro Map

Let me tell you a secret - that colorful spaghetti-looking metro map isn't as complicated as it seems! I remember being totally overwhelmed on my first day here, but now I can help you master it in minutes.

I always tell my friends to think of the lines by color rather than numbers. Yellow line (Line 1) is your east-west bestie, blue line (Line 2) is perfect for north-south trips, and the orange line (Line 3) is your airport express buddy!

The real MVPs of the system are three super-convenient transfer stations.

• First up is Tiyu Xilu (think of it as the "shopping central") - this is where I always meet my friends because it's literally right under TeeMall, one of the city's biggest shopping centers.
• Then there's Gongyuanqian, my go-to for weekend adventures in the old town - it's perfect if you want to explore traditional streets and grab amazing dim sum.
• And Zhujiang New Town station - this is where I take all my visitors for those Ins-worthy shots of Canton Tower!

About Guangzhou Metro

Source: Wikipedia

Guangzhou Metro system is basically the city's lifeline since 1997 and has grown into this incredible network of 19 lines covering pretty much everywhere you'd want to go. Over 10 million people (that's more than the population of New York City!) zip around daily on these super-clean, air-conditioned trains that run from early morning till midnight.

Quick Stats:

• 19 lines (and growing!)
• 397 stations across the city
• Super affordable (¥2-20 per trip)
• English signs everywhere

Guangzhou Metro Operating Hours

Source from Wikipedia

As of 2026, standard operating hours vary by line. Most lines start at around 6:00 AM, with last train times ranging from 10:45 PM to 12:07 AM depending on the line and direction. Extended hours are provided during public holidays and peak travel seasons .

Other lines (Line 9, Line 10, Line 14, Line 15, Line 16, Line 18, Line 21, Line 22, Guangfo Line) generally follow similar schedules but may have variations. Passengers are encouraged to check specific schedules via the official Guangzhou Metro App or station signage for the most up-to-date information .

Note: Operating hours are subject to change, especially during holidays or special events. For the most accurate and real-time information, passengers are advised to check the official Guangzhou Metro app or website before traveling.

How to Buy Guangzhou Metro Ticket

Guangzhou Metro Ticket Types & Prices 💳

• Single-Journey Ticket: Priced between ¥2 and ¥20, depending on distance. Valid only on the day of purchase at the station where you buy it. You have 4.5 hours from entry to exit. Note: Keep it away from magnets, as they can deactivate the ticket.
• Guangzhou Transportation Smart Card (Yang Cheng Tong 羊城通): ¥50 (20 deposit + 30 value). Monthly transit fare: 20% off for ¥80–¥200, 50% off above 200 RMB. Buy at subway counters. Also works on buses, ferries, and convenience stores. Deposit refundable.
• Day Pass Options:
• • 1-Day Pass: ¥20 for unlimited rides within 24 hours.
  • 3-Day Tourist Pass: ¥50 for unlimited rides within 72 hours.

How to Buy Guangzhou Metro Tickets

• From Ticket Machines:

1. Touch screen to start (English available).
2. Select destination station.
3. Choose number of tickets.
4. Insert money (machines accept ¥5-¥100 notes).
5. Collect ticket and change.

• From Service Counter:
  If you're stuck, the service counters are open from early morning till about 10:30 PM, and the staff are usually happy to help, even if you just point to your destination on the map.

For more detailed information, refer to the official Guangzhou Metro website.

How much does the Guangzhou Metro cost

The Guangzhou Metro fare is calculated based on distance traveled, making it affordable for both short trips and longer journeys across the city.

• For the first 0–4 km: ¥2
• For 4–12 km: +¥1 for every additional 4 km (total ¥3–4)
• For 12–24 km: +¥1 for every additional 6 km (total ¥5–7)
• For over 24 km: +¥1 for every additional 8 km (¥8 and above)

The maximum single-journey fare across the entire network is ¥20.

The APM Line (Zhujiang New Town automated people mover) operates on a flat fare of ¥2, regardless of distance.

How to Ride the Guangzhou Metro

Entering the Station

1. Find your entrance (marked A, B, C, D)
2. Pass security check (bags through X-ray)
3. Tap card/token on gate sensor

Pro tip: Keep right on escalators!

Finding Your Platform

1. Follow line color signs
2. Check direction based on terminal station
3. Platform doors show next train timing

During Your Ride

1. Trains run every 2-8 minutes
2. Priority seats marked in red
3. Stand behind yellow line

Peak hours: 7:30-9:30 AM, 5:30-7:30 PM

Exiting the Station

1. Follow 'Exit' signs (出口)
2. Insert token/tap card at gates
3. Keep ticket until you're out

Note: Wrong exit can mean 15+ minute walks!

Popular Guangzhou Metro Lines & Where They Take You

Source from Wikipedia

Best Guangzhou Metro Lines for Tourists

• Line 1 (Yellow Line): This line covers major tourist spots, including:
• • Shopping: Beijing Road Walking Street, TeeMall
  • Culture: Chen Clan Academy, Peasant Movement Institute
  • Transport Hub: Guangzhou East Railway Station
  • Local Life: Shangxiajiu Street, Changshou Road
  • Hotels: Many international hotels are along this line
• Line 3 (Orange Line): Your airport-to-city lifeline, offering:
• • Airport Access: Direct service to Baiyun International Airport
  • Landmarks: Canton Tower, Zhujiang New Town
  • Business: Tianhe Business District
  • Entertainment: Party Pier, Opera House area
  • Sports: Tianhe Sports Center
• APM Line (Automated People Mover): A short but scenic route perfect for:
• • Canton Tower views
  • Zhujiang New Town skyline
  • Haixinsha Island
  • Guangzhou Opera House
  • Evening river views

Source from Wikipedia

Best Lines for Shopping

Best Guangzhou Metro Lines for Foodie

Follow these lines for the best eats:

• Line 1: Traditional Cantonese at Shangxiajiu
• Line 2: Seafood streets near Xiaogang
• Line 3: Modern restaurants at Zhujiang New Town
• Line 5: Famous old restaurants around Taojin

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