Did you know that Guangzhou Metro is home to the world's longest driverless metro line? Line 4, stretching over 50 kilometres, is fully automated and offers a futuristic way to zip across the city! Whether you're heading to the Canton Tower or shopping along Beijing Road, Guangzhou Metro gets you there quickly. Let’s explore the Guangzhou Metro map, lines, stations and everything you need to know to get around Guangzhou with ease!
Overview of Guangzhou Metro System
The Guangzhou Metro remains one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city. It continues to expand, offering more comprehensive coverage across the city. As of 28 December, 2024, the network has 16 operational lines (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3, Line 4, Line 5, Line 6, Line 7, Line 8, Line 9, Line 11, Line 13, Line 14, Line 18, Line 21, Line 22, APM Line and Guangfo Line), covering over 705 kilometres, which further improve connectivity and access to more areas.
Guangzhou Metro Map
The Guangzhou Metro provides extensive coverage, connecting key districts, transport hubs, and popular attractions. The metro system is constantly expanding. Check this map out for more details.
Source: Wikipedia
Each metro line is represented by a different colour, making it easier to follow. For a smoother travel experience, it’s a great idea to download the official Guangzhou Metro App. It provides real-time information on train schedules, station maps, and even the latest updates on service changes.
Guangzhou Metro Lines
Source: Wikipedia
The Guangzhou Metro lines connect nearly every major district in the city and offer easy access to every corner in Guangzhou. You can transfer easily with it.
| Line | Route | Operating Hours | Key Stations |
| Line 1 | Xilang → Guangzhou East Railway Station | 06:00-22:55 | Gongyuanqian, Chen Clan Academy |
| Guangzhou East Railway Station → Xilang | 06:10-23:30 | ||
| Line 2 | Guangzhou South Railway Station → Jiahewanggang | 06:00-23:30 | Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Yuexiu Park |
| Jiahewanggang → Guangzhou South Railway Station | 06:00-23:35 | ||
| Line 3 | Panyu Square → Tianhe Coach Terminal | 06:00-22:55 | Canton Tower, Zhujiang New Town |
| Tianhe Coach Terminal → Panyu Square | 06:10-23:30 | ||
| Metro Line 3 (North Extension) | Tiyu Xilu → Airport N. (Terminal 2) | 06:00-23:30 | Airport S. (Terminal 1/2) |
| Airport N. (Terminal 2) → Tiyu Xilu | 06:00-23:15 | ||
| Line 4 | Nansha Passenger Port → Huangcun | 06:00-22:30 | Nansha Passenger Port |
| Huangcun → Nansha Passenger Port | 06:00-23:15 | ||
| Line 5 | Jiaokou → Huangpu New Port | 06:15-23:00 | Zhujiang New Town, Guangzhou Zoo |
| Huangpu New Port → Jiaokou | 06:00-22:40 | ||
| Line 6 | Xunfenggang → Xiangxue | 06:00-22:50 | Haizhu Square, Beijing Road Shopping Pedestrian |
| Xiangxue → Xunfenggang | 06:00-22:50 | ||
| Line 7 | Meidi Dadao → Yanshan | 06:00-22:45 | Guangzhou Chimelong Resort |
| Yanshan → Meidi Dadao | 06:00-22:45 | ||
| Line 8 | Jiaoxin → Wanshengwei | 06:00-23:00 | Sun Yat-sen University |
| Wanshengwei → Jiaoxin | 06:10-23:00 | ||
| Line 9 | Fei’eling → Gaozeng | 06:00-22:30 | Guangzhou North Railway Station |
| Gaozeng → Fei’eling | 06:06-23:15 | ||
| Line 11 | Loop Line (Chisha ↔ Chisha) | 06:00-22:56 | Guangzhou East Railway Station, Tianhe Park |
| Line 13 | Yuzhu → Xinsha | 06:15-23:15 | Nanhai God Temple |
| Xinsha → Yuzhu | 06:00-22:30 | ||
| Line 14 | Jiahewanggang → Dongfeng | 06:00-22:50 | Conghua Coach Terminal |
| Dongfeng → Jiahewanggang | 06:00-22:35 | ||
| Line 14 (South Extension) | Xinhe → Zhenlong | 06:10-23:05 | Sino-Singapore Guangzhou Knowledge City |
| Zhenlong → Xinhe | 06:00-22:50 | ||
| Line 18 | Xiancun → Wanqingsha | 06:15-23:15 | Shaxi |
| Wanqingsha → Xiancun | 06:00-22:30 | ||
| Line 21 | Tianhe Park → Zengcheng Square | 06:02-23:05 | Tianhe Park, Science City |
| Zengcheng Square → Tianhe Park | 06:00-22:35 | ||
| Line 22 | Chentougang → Panyu Square | 06:00-23:15 | Guangzhou South Railway Station, Panyu Square |
| Panyu Square → Chentougang | 06:00-22:55 | ||
| APM Line | Canton Tower → Linhexi | 07:00-23:30 | Canton Tower, Haixinsha |
| Linhexi → Canton Tower | 07:00-23:30 | ||
| Guangfo Line | Xincheng Dong → Lijiao | 06:00-22:30 | Nanzhou, Zumiao |
| Lijiao → Xincheng Dong | 06:00-23:00 |
How to Use the Guangzhou Metro
Source: Wikipedia
The Guangzhou Metro is easy to navigate. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the Guangzhou Metro.
1. Get your metro ticket
There are several ways to access the metro:
- Single journey tickets: Available at ticket vending machines. Simply select your destination on the screen, and the system will calculate the fare based on distance.
- Yikatong card: The Yikatong card is the most convenient option for frequent travellers. It can be purchased and recharged at any metro station.
- Mobile payments: Guangzhou Metro accepts WeChat Pay and Alipay. Simply link your account to your metro app and scan the QR code at the entrance gate.
Note: Guangzhou Metro fares are based on the distance travelled, typically ranging from ¥2 to ¥8 (approximately S$0.40 to S$1.60).
2. Entering the metro station
For single journey tickets or Yikatong card holders, tap your card at the entry gate. For mobile payments users, use your phone to scan the QR code at the gates.
3. Board the train
During peak hours, trains arrive every 2-3 minutes, while off-peak times have a frequency of 5-6 minutes.
4. Exiting the metro
Don’t forget to tap your Yikatong card or ticket at the exit gate to complete your journey. If you used WeChat Pay or Alipay, just scan the exit gate’s QR code.
Popular Attractions Accessible by Guangzhou Metro
One of the best things about Guangzhou Metro is its extensive coverage, which makes it easy to visit many of the city’s most famous attractions. Here are some of the top attractions that are easily accessible by Guangzhou Metro:
| Attraction | Metro Line | Nearest Station | Attraction Highlight |
| Canton Tower | Line 3 | Canton Tower Station | Stunning city views, a revolving restaurant, and a skywalk |
| Yuexiu Park | Line 2 | Yuexiu Park Station | Five Rams Statue and Zhenhai Tower |
| Shamian Island | Line 6 | Shamian Island Station | Colonial architecture and scenic walking paths |
| Chimelong Paradise | Line 3 | Hanxi Changlong Station | Amusement park with thrilling rides, water attractions, and live performances |
| Beijing Road Shopping Street | Line 6 | Beijing Road Station | Modern stores and ancient ruins |
| Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall | Line 2 | Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Station | A historical landmark dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen |
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Tips for a Smooth Guangzhou Metro Experience
Source: Wikipedia
- ✅Plan your route in advance: Download the official Guangzhou Metro App or Baidu Maps to plan your route.
- ✅Be ready for transfers: Guangzhou Metro has several major transfer stations. If you need to switch lines, pay attention to the signs and follow the crowd.
- ✅Beat the crowds: If you can, try to avoid peak hours (7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM). The trains are packed during these times, so travelling after 10:00 AM or during midday gives you a more comfortable ride.
FAQ about Guangzhou Metro Map
Is the Guangzhou Metro map available in English?
Yes, the Guangzhou Metro Map is available in both Chinese and English. Signage inside stations and trains also includes English, so non-Mandarin speakers can easily navigate the system.What is the best way to get from Guangzhou Airport to the city using the metro?
You can take Line 3 from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport directly into the city centre. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes depending on your destination.What is the busiest line in Guangzhou?
Line 1 and Line 3 are among the busiest lines in Guangzhou, especially during rush hours. These lines pass through key commercial and tourist districts, so be prepared for larger crowds during peak times.