How to Use Shenzhen Metro: Maps, Hours, Fares & Tips

Get around Shenzhen easily with my quick guide to the metro—maps, fares, and schedules made simple.

Shenzhen Metro Map

Source from Wikipedia

The Shenzhen Metro is super easy to use, with 16 color-coded lines and over 400 stations as of 2025, covering the city and extending to nearby areas like Dongguan and Huizhou.

Major stops like Futian CBD, Luohu (great for crossing into Hong Kong), and Airport North connect you to business hubs, cultural spots, and more. The network has grown to over 600 kilometers of track.

Shenzhen Metro: Hours, Lines & Stations

Source from Wikipedia

Check my quick guide to the metro system, incl. major lines, operating hours, and how to reach key destinations like the airport, Window of the World, and more.

• First and Last Trains: Most metro lines start around 6 a.m. and run until 11:30 p.m., with some lines extending to midnight.
• Airport Access: Take Line 11 to Airport (T3) or Line 1 to Airport East for convenient access to Shenzhen Airport.

Line 1 (Luobao Line): Luohu to Airport East

• Stops: Luohu (border crossing), Grand Theater, Window of the World, Airport East.
• Operating Hours: 6:20 a.m.–11:40 p.m.
• Best For: Traveling to the airport or visiting the Window of the World.

Line 2 & 8: Chiwan to Xiaomeisha

• Stops: Sea World, Window of the World, Xiaomeisha Beach.
• Operating Hours: 5:50 a.m.–11 p.m.
• Best For: Visiting Sea World or enjoying the beach at Xiaomeisha.

Line 3: Futian Bonded Area to Pingdi Liulian

• Stops: Shopping Park, Children's Palace, Buji.
• Operating Hours: 6 a.m.–12 a.m.
• Best For: Shopping at Coco Park or exploring Buji.

Line 11: Gangxia South to Bitou

• Stops: Futian, Airport (T3), Shajing.
• Operating Hours: 6:03 a.m.–12:10 a.m.
• Best For: Fast access to Shenzhen Airport (T3).

Line 7: Xili Lake to Tai’an

• Stops: Chegongmiao, Huaqiang North, Sungang.
• Operating Hours: 6:12 a.m.–11:40 p.m.
• Best For: Exploring the Huaqiangbei Electronics Market.

✅Get a local SIM card or reliable eSIM data plan - you'll need internet for checking metro routes, schedules, and using mobile payments while getting around.

How to Use the Shenzhen Metro

Before you hop on the metro, plan your route using apps like Amap or Baidu Maps. These apps provide real-time updates, station maps, and transfer tips. If you prefer English, Google Maps (with a VPN) can also work, but local apps are more reliable.

Source from Shenzhen shopping

Step 1: Entering the Station

Look for the green and white metro signs. Before entering, all bags go through security checks X-ray machines —keep your belongings ready for inspection.

If you’re using a Shenzhen Tong Card, Alipay, or WeChat Pay, head straight to the gates.

Source from Thatsmags

Step 2: Paying for Your Ride

We’ll cover payment options in detail later, but here’s a quick overview:

• Use a Shenzhen Tong Card, Alipay/WeChat QR code, or single-journey ticket.
• If you’re unsure, staff at the service counter (located near the gates) can help you buy a ticket or card.

Source from Wikipedia

Step 3: Boarding the Train

Check the platform screens for train directions and arrival times. Stand behind the yellow line and let passengers exit first.

Avoid rush hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM) if possible for a more comfortable ride.

Source from Wikipedia

Step 4: Exiting the Station

Before exiting, check your map app (like Amap or Baidu Maps) to find the best exit for your destination—exits are numbered and labeled.

Tap your Shenzhen Tong Card, scan your Alipay/WeChat QR code, or insert your single-journey ticket at the gate to exit.

If you run into issues, staff at the service counter can assist you.

Shenzhen Metro Price: Cost Breakdown

The Shenzhen Metro uses a distance-based fare system, starting at ¥2 for the first 4 kilometers and increasing incrementally. For example, a 10-kilometer trip costs around ¥4, while longer journeys (over 28 kilometers) can go up to ¥14.

Fares may vary slightly depending on the line. Always check the fare chart at the station or use the metro app for exact pricing. USD Prices are rounded to the nearest RMB.

How to Pay for Shenzhen Metro: Cards, Tickets or Mobile Pay

Shenzhen Metro ticket fares start at 2 RMB for short trips and increase with distance. A 10-kilometer ride could cost 5 RMB, while a longer trip might be up to 14 RMB. Use Amap or Baidu Maps to calculate fares.

Shenzhen Tong Card vs. Single-Journey Tickets

If you’re staying in Shenzhen for a while, the Shenzhen Tong Card is the better choice. For short visits, single-journey tickets work just fine.

Shenzhen Tong Card

• Pros: Convenient, rechargeable, and offers discounts on fares. You can also use it on buses and taxis.
• Cons: Requires a ¥20 deposit and an initial top-up (usually ¥80).

Single-Journey Tickets

• Pros: No deposit needed; just buy a ticket for your trip at the vending machine.
• Cons: No discounts, and you’ll need to buy a new ticket for each journey.

Source from viajeroslowcosteros

Mobile QR Code Payment: Alipay

Using your phone to pay for the Shenzhen Metro is super convenient. Here’s how to set it up:

✅Alipay

1. Download and open Alipay.
2. Bind your card (both Chinese and international cards work).
3. Select your city (e.g., Shenzhen) in the app.
4. Click “Travel” and find the Shenzhen Metro QR code.
5. Scan the code at the gate to enter and exit the station.

Make sure your name in WeChat or Alipay matches your passport exactly (use SURNAME FIRST NAME MIDDLE NAME in all caps). If it doesn’t, you’ll need to wait 15 days to update it.

Source from viajeroslowcosteros

😐WeChat Pay(Not Recommended)

Open WeChat and go to “Services.” Find the “Transport” section and activate the Shenzhen Metro QR code. Scan the code at the gate.

Alipay is more convenient for foreigners as it requires less verification compared to WeChat Pay, which needs a Chinese number and additional IDs.

😏UnionPay Cards

If you have a UnionPay card with the “Quick Pay” feature, you can simply tap it on the gate to enter and exit. This also works with Apple Pay or other T-Union compatible smartcards.

What to Do If You Have Problems in Shenzhen Metro?

Lost Belongings in the Metro

If you lose something, head straight to the service counter. Describe the item, where you last had it, and the time. The staff will help file a report and contact you if it’s found. Pro tip: Always double-check your seat before leaving the train!

What to Do If You Miss the Last Train?

Don’t worry if you miss the last train! Shenzhen offers night buses and taxis for late-night travel. Additionally, some lines, such as Line 1 (to Qianhaiwan) and Line 11 (to Songgang), may have halfway trains running after 11 p.m. to help you reach your destination.

Emergency Contacts

For urgent help, go to the service counter or dial 110 for police or 120 for medical emergencies. You can also call the metro hotline at +86 755 8896 0000. Save these numbers in your phone or jot them down just in case.

Phone Out of Battery or No Internet

No battery or internet? Don’t panic. Grab a local SIM or eSIM for reliable access—many stations sell them. Some stations also have charging spots or power banks for rent. If you’re lost, just ask the staff—they’re there to help. Carry a portable charger and download offline maps.

✅Get a local SIM card or reliable eSIM data plan - you'll need internet for checking metro routes, schedules, and using mobile payments while getting around.

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