

Guangzhou Transport Guide: Best Ways to Get Around the City

By Tina
July 21, 2026

Guangzhou has a large transport system connecting Baiyun Airport, railway stations, shopping areas, the Canton Fair Complex, and popular attractions. For most Filipino travelers, the easiest way to explore Guangzhou is by metro, with DiDi or taxis for late-night trips, heavy luggage, and destinations far from a station.
Guangzhou Transport Quick Guide
Transport | Estimated Fare | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Metro | CNY 2 to 20, around ₱18 to ₱182 | Most sightseeing trips |
Public bus | Usually from CNY 2, around ₱18 | Budget travelers and local areas |
Taxi | From CNY 12, around ₱109 | Families and travelers with luggage |
DiDi | Price shown before booking | Late nights and door-to-door travel |
Water bus | Usually CNY 1 to 5 | Cheap Pearl River views |
Haizhu Tram | CNY 2 | Riverside sightseeing |
Shared bike | Usually CNY 1 to 6 | Short neighborhood trips |
High-speed train | Depends on destination | Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and other cities |
Unlock the Best Flights to Guangzhou
















Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to the City

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is around 28 kilometers from central Guangzhou. Your best transport option depends on whether your flight arrives at Terminal 2 or Terminal 3.
Important Airport Update for 2026
Terminal 1 temporarily closed for renovation on May 7, 2026. Airport South Metro Station is also temporarily closed, with trains currently passing through without stopping. Flights previously using Terminal 1 have moved to Terminal 3. Check the latest terminal information on your ticket before traveling. See the official airport update.
From Terminal 2
Terminal 2 is connected directly to Airport North Station on Metro Line 3. The journey to central Guangzhou usually takes around 40 to 60 minutes, depending on your destination and transfers.
This is the cheapest option for travelers staying around Tianhe, Zhujiang New Town, Yuexiu, or other central districts.
From Terminal 3
Terminal 3 does not currently have a direct Guangzhou Metro station. Travelers can use:
Metro and airport shuttle: Take the shuttle between Terminal 3 and Gaozeng Station, where you can connect to Metro Lines 3 and 9. The shuttle journey takes about 15 minutes.
Guangdong Intercity Railway: Baiyun Airport East Station is connected to Terminal 3. Trains connect the airport with areas such as Pazhou and Panyu, where passengers can transfer to other transport.
Taxi or DiDi: A ride to central Guangzhou usually costs around CNY 120 to 200, approximately ₱1,090 to ₱1,820. Traffic, tolls, and your hotel location can affect the final fare.
Guangzhou Metro

The Guangzhou Metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city. It connects the airport, major railway stations, business districts, shopping areas, hotels, and attractions.
Most stations have English signs, maps, and announcements. Services generally begin at around 6:00 AM and end between 11:00 PM and midnight. Exact first and last-train times depend on the line and station.
Guangzhou Metro Fares
Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
Single-journey ticket | CNY 2 to 20 |
One-day pass | CNY 20, around ₱182 |
Three-day pass | CNY 50, around ₱455 |
Zhujiang New Town APM | CNY 2 per ride |
The one-day pass offers unlimited metro rides for 24 hours after its first use. The three-day pass is valid for 72 hours. Guangzhou Metro confirms the CNY 20 and CNY 50 pass prices.
How to Pay for the Guangzhou Metro
You can pay using:
- Single-journey tokens
- Yang Cheng Tong transport card
- One-day or three-day metro pass
- Alipay transport QR code
- WeChat transport QR code
- RMB cash at supported machines or counters
- Supported international bank cards at selected facilities
Guangzhou Metro supports major cards such as UnionPay, Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and JCB. However, card facilities can differ between stations, so keep Alipay or RMB cash as backup. See the official international payment information.
How to Ride the Guangzhou Metro
- Search for your destination using Amap, Baidu Maps, or the Guangzhou Metro app.
- Check the correct line, direction, and transfer station.
- Buy a token or prepare your transport QR code.
- Pass through the station security check.
- Scan or tap at the entrance gate.
- Follow the line color and English station signs.
- Check the correct exit number before leaving.
⚠️ Tip: Guangzhou metro stations can have many exits. Choosing the wrong exit may add another 10 to 20 minutes of walking.
Metro Stations Near Popular Guangzhou Attractions
Attraction | Nearest Metro Station | Line |
|---|---|---|
Canton Tower | Canton Tower | Line 3 or APM |
Beijing Road | Beijing Lu | Line 6 |
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall | Chen Clan Academy | Line 1 |
Shamian Island | Huangsha or Cultural Park | Lines 1, 6, or 8 |
Zhujiang New Town | Zhujiang New Town | Lines 3 and 5 |
Yuexiu Park | Yuexiu Park | Line 2 |
Chimelong Tourist Resort | Hanxi Changlong | Lines 3 and 7 |
Canton Fair Complex | Pazhou or Xingangdong | Line 8 |
Guangzhou South Railway Station | Guangzhou South Railway Station | Lines 2, 7, and 22 |
For the Canton Fair Complex, take Line 8 to Pazhou or Xingangdong Station. Line 11 also serves Pazhou Station.
Guangzhou Metro Rush Hours
The metro can become very crowded on weekdays from around:
- 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM
- 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Line 3 and central interchange stations are usually among the busiest. Avoid these periods when carrying large luggage or traveling with children.
Find the Best Hotels in Guangzhou
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Hotel in GuangzhouYang Cheng Tong Transport Card

Yang Cheng Tong is Guangzhou’s rechargeable transport card. It works on the metro, public buses, trams, and many water bus routes.
You can buy selected card types from metro service counters, Yang Cheng Tong service centers, and some convenience stores. A deposit card generally requires a CNY 20 deposit, plus the amount you want to add.
For a three to five-day visit, adding around CNY 50 to 100 is usually enough if you mainly use the metro and public buses.
Yang Cheng Tong is useful if you:
- Do not want to set up mobile payment
- Have limited mobile data
- Plan to use buses and water buses
- Are staying in Guangzhou for several days
Guangzhou Public Buses

Public buses are cheap and reach areas that are not directly beside a metro station. Most regular city bus rides start from around CNY 2.
You can pay with a Yang Cheng Tong card, a supported transport QR code, or exact RMB cash. Drivers normally do not provide change.
Bus routes can be difficult for first-time visitors because some information is mainly in Chinese. Use Amap or Baidu Maps to check the bus number, boarding stop, direction, and number of stops.
Tips for Taking Guangzhou Buses
- Prepare exact cash when paying without a card.
- Save your destination name and address in Chinese.
- Follow your location using a map app.
- Press the stop button before your destination when required.
- Avoid public buses when carrying large luggage.
- Allow extra time because road traffic can be heavy.
Guangzhou Sightseeing Buses

Guangzhou sightseeing buses connect several popular tourist areas, including Canton Tower, Beijing Road, Chen Clan Academy, Shamian Island, and Zhujiang New Town.
They cost more than regular public buses but can be convenient for families and first-time visitors. Routes, stops, and operating times may change, so confirm the latest schedule before buying a ticket.
Guangzhou Taxis

Licensed taxis are available at airports, railway stations, hotels, shopping malls, and official taxi stands.
The starting fare is around CNY 12 for the first 3 kilometers, approximately ₱109. Additional distance is generally charged at around CNY 2.60 per kilometer. Night surcharges, traffic, waiting time, and road tolls may apply.
Guangzhou Taxi Tips
- Use the official taxi queue.
- Check that the meter is running.
- Show your destination in Chinese.
- Keep a screenshot of your hotel address.
- Ask for a receipt.
- Carry small RMB notes as backup.
DiDi and Ride-Hailing Apps

DiDi is China’s main ride-hailing app and is the closest alternative to Grab. The English version supports foreign mobile numbers and international credit cards. You can also book rides through Alipay.
DiDi displays the pickup point, estimated fare, car type, driver information, and destination before the journey. This makes communication easier when the driver does not speak English.
DiDi is recommended for:
- Late-night trips
- Families with children
- Travelers carrying luggage
- Destinations far from a metro station
- Airport and railway station transfers
Guangzhou Water Bus

Guangzhou’s public water buses cross different parts of the Pearl River. They are mainly used by locals, but tourists can also enjoy an inexpensive river ride.
Fares usually range from CNY 1 to 5, depending on the route and seating area. One useful route is the short crossing between Huangsha and Fangcun.
Operating times vary by route. Check the latest schedule before going to the pier because some services only run during selected hours.
Pearl River Night Cruise

A Pearl River night cruise is a sightseeing activity rather than regular public transport. Cruises usually last around 60 to 90 minutes and provide views of Canton Tower, Haixinsha, Liede Bridge, and the city’s illuminated riverfront.
Boats depart from different piers, including Tianzi Wharf. Ticket prices depend on the departure pier, boat, seat type, and included services.
Haizhu Tram

The Haizhu Tram is a scenic transport option along the Pearl River. It connects Canton Tower with Wanshengwei and passes areas near Party Pier, Pazhou, and the Canton Fair Complex.
A regular ride costs around CNY 2. The full route generally takes around 25 to 40 minutes. It is slower than the metro but offers better river views.
The tram is best for travelers who want a relaxed sightseeing experience.
Shared Bikes

Shared bikes from Hello Bike and Meituan are commonly found near metro stations, parks, malls, and residential neighborhoods.
Scan the QR code using the correct app, unlock the bike, and end the ride after parking in an approved area. Registration and identity verification may be less convenient for short-term foreign visitors.
Avoid cycling during heavy rain, extreme heat, or busy traffic. Helmets may not be provided.
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Walking Around Guangzhou

Shamian Island
Walking is a good option in areas where several attractions are close together.
Recommended areas for walking include:
- Beijing Road and Dafo Temple
- Shamian Island
- Yongqingfang
- Zhujiang New Town
- Canton Tower and the Pearl River promenade
- Yuexiu Park
- Dongshankou
Guangzhou is often hot and humid. Wear comfortable shoes, bring drinking water, and carry a small umbrella during the rainy season.
High-Speed Trains from Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a major railway hub with high-speed trains to Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Shanghai, Beijing, and other Chinese cities.
Guangzhou South is the main high-speed railway station. It is outside the central tourist districts, so allow extra time for the metro journey, security check, and finding your boarding gate.
Other trains may depart from Guangzhou East, Guangzhou Railway Station, Guangzhou Baiyun, or Panyu. Always check the exact station shown on your ticket because these stations are far apart.
Foreign travelers can book train tickets using a passport. Enter your name exactly as shown on the passport and bring the original document on your travel date.
Which Guangzhou Transport Is Best for You?
Travel Style | Recommended Transport |
|---|---|
First-time visitor | Metro and DiDi |
Budget traveler | Metro, bus, and walking |
Shopping trip | Metro |
Canton Fair visitor | Metro Lines 8 and 11 |
Family with children | Taxi, DiDi, or private transfer |
Traveler with luggage | DiDi or taxi |
Late-night arrival | DiDi, taxi, or airport transfer |
Scenic sightseeing | Water bus, tram, or Pearl River cruise |
Visiting nearby cities | High-speed train |
Exploring local neighborhoods | Metro, bus, and walking |
Secure Your Stay in Guangzhou
5 star
Business travel
Family friendly
Hot spring
Gym
Swimming pool
Breakfast
Must-Know Tips for Guangzhou Transport
- Use the metro for most sightseeing trips because it is fast, affordable, and connected to major attractions.
- Download Alipay, DiDi, and Amap before arriving. Google Maps and Grab may not work reliably in mainland China.
- Save your hotel name, address, and destinations in Chinese to show taxi drivers.
- Avoid metro rush hours from around 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
- Check the correct metro exit because large stations may have many exits far apart.
- Carry some RMB cash as backup in case mobile payment or international cards do not work.
- Terminal 1 at Baiyun Airport is temporarily closed. Check whether your flight uses Terminal 2 or Terminal 3.
- Terminal 2 connects directly to Metro Line 3, while Terminal 3 requires an airport shuttle or intercity train connection.
- Use official taxi queues and make sure the driver turns on the meter.
- Book DiDi through the English app or Alipay for clearer fares and pickup details.
- Bring your original passport when taking high-speed trains.
- Allow extra travel time during the Canton Fair and Chinese public holidays.
FAQs About Guangzhou Transport
-
What is the easiest way to get around Guangzhou?
The easiest option is to use the metro for most trips and DiDi for late-night journeys, heavy luggage, or destinations far from a station. -
Can I use Grab in Guangzhou?
Grab is not commonly used in mainland China. Use DiDi or the ride-hailing service inside Alipay instead. -
Can foreigners use Alipay for Guangzhou transport?
Yes. Foreign visitors can register for Alipay, link a supported international bank card, complete identity verification, and activate a Guangzhou transport QR code. -
Does Guangzhou Metro operate for 24 hours?
No. Most metro services run from around 6:00 AM until 11:00 PM or midnight. Exact times depend on the line and station. -
How do I reach Terminal 3 by public transport?
Take Metro Line 3 or Line 9 to Gaozeng Station and transfer to the Terminal 3 shuttle. You can also take the Guangdong Intercity Railway to Baiyun Airport East Station.
Related products
Guangzhou Transport
- 1. Guangzhou Transport Quick Guide
- 2. Guangzhou Baiyun Airport to the City
- 3. Guangzhou Metro
- 4. Yang Cheng Tong Transport Card
- 5. Guangzhou Public Buses
- 6. Guangzhou Sightseeing Buses
- 7. Guangzhou Taxis
- 8. DiDi and Ride-Hailing Apps
- 9. Guangzhou Water Bus
- 10. Pearl River Night Cruise
- 11. Haizhu Tram
- 12. Shared Bikes
- 13. Walking Around Guangzhou
- 14. High-Speed Trains from Guangzhou
- 15. Which Guangzhou Transport Is Best for You?
- 16. Must-Know Tips for Guangzhou Transport
- 17. FAQs About Guangzhou Transport
I’m someone who loves turning real travel experiences into helpful stories. From figuring out transport to planning smooth trips, I share practical tips that help Filipino travelers feel more confident wherever they go.
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