Guangzhou is one of those cities that’s easy to move around. The metro is reliable, covers almost every part of the city, and makes travel simple even if it’s your first time here. The stations are well marked, and signs are in both Chinese and English so you won’t feel lost. Just remember to check the Guangzhou Metro operating hours before you head out, especially if you’re going back to your hotel late at night, so you don’t get stuck when the trains stop running.
Overview of Guangzhou Metro System
The Guangzhou Metro is still one of the fastest and most reliable ways to get around the city. The system keeps growing, and more areas are now linked by train.
As of 2025:
- There are 19 lines in service, including the new Line 10 and Line 12.
- The network now covers about 750 kilometers.
- Line 11, which runs in a loop around the city center, opened in December 2024.
- Line 10 and Line 12 both started running on June 29, 2025.
- Expansion is still ongoing. For example, Line 13 Phase 2 is expected to open in late 2025 or 2026.
This makes the metro one of the easiest ways to explore Guangzhou since it connects shopping areas, tourist spots, and neighborhoods all over the city.
Guangzhou Metro Lines
The Guangzhou Metro is one of the easiest ways to move around the city. As of 2025, it has 19 lines in operation, including the newest Line 10 and Line 12 which opened in June 2025. The system now covers over 700 kilometers, connecting almost every major district in Guangzhou and even linking to nearby Foshan through the Guangfo Line.
Line | Main Route / Terminals | Hours* | Key Stations or Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Line 1 | Xilang ⇄ Guangzhou East | ~06:00 to 23:30 | Connects many old-city spots. |
Line 2 | Guangzhou South ⇄ Jiahewanggang | ~ 06:00 to 00:23 | Passes through Yuexiu, etc. |
Line 3 | Airport North ↔ Haibang (via Y shape) | ~ 06:00 to 00:08 | The north extension connects the airport. |
Line 4 | Nansha Passenger Port ⇄ Huangcun | ~ 06:00 to 00:21 | Runs north–south through new districts. |
Line 5 | Jiaokou ⇄ Huangpu New Port | ~06:00 to 23:00 | Zhujiang New Town, Guangzhou Zoo |
Line 6 | Xunfenggang ⇄ Xiangxue | ~ 06:00 to 23:56 | Serves more residential areas. |
Line 7 | Guangzhou South ⇄ Higher Education Mega Center South | ~ 06:00 to 23:57 | Useful for university zones. |
Line 8 | Fenghuang Xincun ⇄ Wanshengwei | ~ 06:15 to 23:54 | Crosses many central districts. |
Line 9 | Fei’eling ⇄ Gaozeng | ~ 06:00 to 23:38 | Connects Huadu district to central network. |
Line 10 | Xilang ⇄ Yangji East | ~06:00 to 23:00 | Links Liwan, Haizhu, Tianhe |
Line 11 | Loop Line (circular) | ~06:00 to 23:00 | Circles major districts |
Line 12 | Western & Eastern sections | ~06:00 to 23:00 | New cross-city route (still partial) |
Line 13 | Yuzhu ⇄ Xinsha | ~ 06:15 to 23:15 | Serves newer districts. |
Line 14 | Jiahewanggang ⇄ Dongfeng; Xinhe ⇄ Zhenlong (branch) | ~ 06:00 to 23:37 | Has express and branch services. |
Line 18 | Xiancun ⇄ Wanqingsha | ~ 06:00 to 23:51 | One of the faster metro lines. |
Line 21 | Tianhe Park ⇄ Zengcheng Square | ~ 06:00 to 23:57 | Good for travel to outskirts. |
Line 22 | Chentougang ⇄ Panyu Square | ~ 06:00 to 23:25 | Links Panyu with other lines. |
APM Line | Canton Tower ⇄ Linhexi | ~ 07:00 to 23:30 | Short, useful in central area. |
Guangfo Line | Xincheng Dong ⇄ Lijiao | ~ 06:00 to 23:56 | Connects Guangzhou and Foshan cities. |
Popular Metro Lines and Attractions You Can Reach in Guangzhou
One of the best things about the Guangzhou Metro is how it connects you to many of the city’s must-visit spots. Whether you’re into history, shopping, or theme parks, the metro makes it easy and affordable to get around. Here are some top attractions that Filipinos often enjoy and how to reach them:
| Attraction | Metro Line | Nearest Station | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
Canton Tower | Line 3 | Canton Tower Station | Famous landmark with panoramic city views, a revolving restaurant, and even a glass skywalk. |
Yuexiu Park | Line 2 | Yuexiu Park Station | A relaxing park with the iconic Five Rams Statue and the historic Zhenhai Tower. |
Shamian Island | Line 6 | Shamian Island Station | Quiet escape with old colonial buildings, tree-lined streets, and nice spots for photos. |
Chimelong Paradise | Line 3 | Hanxi Changlong Station | One of China’s biggest theme parks with roller coasters, water rides, and family shows. |
Beijing Road Shopping Street | Line 6 | Beijing Road Station | A lively shopping street where modern malls meet ancient ruins under glass walkways. |
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall | Line 2 | Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Station | A grand hall dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, known as the father of modern China. |
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport | Line 3 (North Extension) | Airport North (T2) / Airport South (T1 & T2) | Direct metro access to Terminals 1 and 2, the fastest and cheapest way to get to and from the airport. |
Guangzhou Metro Fares & Tickets
How Much Is the Fare?
- Guangzhou Metro uses a distance-based fare system.
- First 0–4 km: ¥2 (around ₱16)
- 4–12 km: add ¥1 (₱8) every 4 km
- 12–24 km: add ¥1 every 6 km
- Beyond 24 km: add ¥1 every 8 km
- The cheapest fare is ¥2 (~₱16), while the most expensive rides can reach about ¥14 (~₱112).
- The APM Line (the short central line near Canton Tower) always costs ¥2.
- You must finish your trip within 4 hours after entering the metro.
Ticket & Card Options
| Ticket Type | How It Works | Price | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
Single-Journey Ticket (Token) | Buy from ticket machines each time. Choose your station, pay, and get a round token. Tap when entering, insert when exiting. | ¥2–¥14 (~₱16–₱112) | Best for short or one-time rides. |
Yang Cheng Tong Card | A reloadable metro card (similar to GCash card tap style). Works on metro, buses, ferries. | ¥20 deposit + load value | Convenient for longer stays, small discount on rides, faster entry. |
1-Day Pass | Unlimited metro rides for 24 hours from first use. | ¥20 (~₱160) | Good if you plan to ride many times in one day. |
3-Day Pass | Unlimited metro rides for 72 hours. | ¥50 (~₱400) | Perfect for tourists exploring the city for a few days. |
Getting Around Guangzhou Made Easy
For Filipinos traveling to Guangzhou, the metro is one of the most practical ways to explore the city. With a reloadable Yang Cheng Tong card or a day pass, you don’t need to buy single tickets every time you ride. This saves both time and hassle, especially if you plan to visit several places in one day.
The metro takes you close to many popular spots like Canton Tower for city views, Beijing Road for shopping, Yuexiu Park for history, and even Chimelong Paradise if you’re looking for theme park fun. Signs are in both Chinese and English, so even first-time visitors can manage. Trains are reliable, affordable, and cover most parts of the city, making it easier for Filipinos to enjoy Guangzhou without worrying about traffic.
🙋♀️ FAQ: Guangzhou Metro Map
How much is the metro fare in Guangzhou?
Fares start at ¥2 (~₱16) for short rides and can go up to ¥14 (~₱112) for longer trips. Airport to downtown usually costs around ¥7–9 (~₱56–₱72).How do I pay for the metro?
You can buy a single-journey token at machines, but it’s easier to use a Yang Cheng Tong card (reloadable) or a 1-day/3-day pass if you’ll ride a lot.Is there an English option at the ticket machines?
Yes. Most machines have English language settings, so it’s simple to buy tickets even if you don’t read Chinese.Can I go directly to the airport by metro?
Yes. Line 3 (North Extension) goes straight to Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (Terminals 1 & 2). It’s the cheapest and most convenient way compared to taxis.What time does the metro open and close?
Most lines start around 6:00 am and close around 11:30 pm to midnight. The APM Line starts later, around 7:00 am.