Getting Around in Guangzhou

Getting around in Guangzhou is easy and convenient, thanks to its well-developed public transport system. As one of China's most modern and thriving cities, Guangzhou has adapted to its growing population by creating a comprehensive network of transport options. This includes a subway, buses, trains, and ferries, making it simple for expats to travel around the city.

Public transport in Guangzhou

Expats planning on using public transport in Guangzhou regularly should acquire a Yang Cheng Tong smartcard. This multipurpose transit card allows commuters to easily and conveniently transfer between different modes of transport, including the metro, buses and ferries. It's also the cheapest way to travel on public transport, with reduced fares for certain groups.

Buses

Taking the bus is the cheapest way to travel in Guangzhou. You can pay with a transit card or the exact cash fare. It's important to know your destination in Mandarin, as most drivers don’t speak English and bus stop signs are usually in Chinese.

The Guangzhou Bus Rapid Transit (GBRT) system uses dedicated lanes and regular roads. It is faster than regular buses and convenient for reaching downtown areas and suburbs not covered by the subway. GBRT buses run every minute from 6.30am to 10.30pm. After that, night buses operate until 5.40am.

Metro

Guangzhou has a comprehensive subway system, with 16 lines connecting the city centre to the outer suburbs and the nearby city of Foshan. The system typically runs from 6am to midnight. The airport is also connected to the city via the Guangzhou Metro. 

The metro is efficient, and English-speaking expats can rest assured that English translations of signs and maps are displayed. Although buying individual tickets from kiosks or vending machines at the stations is possible, the easiest and cheapest way to ride the subway is to purchase a Yang Cheng Tong card at a metro station.

Trams

Guangzhou is home to two tram lines, which have been in service since 2021. The tram system links the central business areas and Guangzhou's suburbs. You can only use a Yang Cheng Tong card or buy a single ticket, as cash is not accepted on the tram. 

Trains

Train travel in Guangzhou is primarily used for travelling long distances. It is possible to catch a train from East Railway Station to Hong Kong on trains operated as part of the Hong Kong MTR. The Guangzhou Railway Station, on the other hand, offers routes to cities such as Shenzhen and Beijing.

Useful links

• Guangzhou Metro Corporation

Taxis in Guangzhou

Taxis in Guangzhou are affordable for short distances, but most drivers don’t speak English. You should either show the driver a business card from somewhere near the place you want to go or have the address written out in Chinese. Given the city’s size, it is often best to take a taxi to a landmark or intersection close to the final destination.

Recently, Guangzhou's local government has introduced a new system to help non-Mandarin speakers using taxis. You can simply use a touch screen installed on the backseat to search for your destination on your map, which will then be read out loud to your driver in Mandarin. 

Taxis are metered, and passengers should make sure they get a receipt for the trip in case there are any discrepancies; most drivers prefer cash. Taxis are easily recognisable by their different colours, which signify various taxi companies. The newer yellow ones are considered the most reliable.

Ride-hailing apps such as DiDi are also recommended in Guangzhou, as these are often cheaper and eliminate language barrier problems.

Useful links

• DiDi
• Talixo

Driving in Guangzhou

Driving in Guangzhou isn’t total chaos, but expats should think carefully before doing it. The city’s traffic is busy and crowded and can feel overwhelming, especially for newcomers.

Foreigners can’t use international or foreign driver’s licences in China. To drive legally, you need to get a Chinese driver’s licence. This usually involves taking a written test and a driving test, though some nationalities are exempt.

That said, Guangzhou’s public transport is excellent, so owning a car isn’t usually necessary. If you need a car, many people rent one with a driver, which is a common option in China.

Bicycles in Guangzhou

Cycling infrastructure in Guangzhou has historically been poor, but conditions are rapidly improving, with the recent renovation of 311 miles (500km) of cycling paths across the city. 

As is the case throughout China, bike sharing has become trendy in Guangzhou. The city operates a cycle-sharing scheme that allows locals and tourists to rent a bicycle using a Yang Cheng Tong card. In recent years, the city has expanded its greenways by more than 1,860 miles (3,000 km), giving cyclists and walkers much more space to roam.

Boats in Guangzhou

The Pearl River, also known as the Zhujiang River, flows through the city and offers a novel way of getting around. You can take several ports and ferry terminals in Guangzhou to travel to Hong Kong, including Nansha Passenger Port and Lianhuashan Passenger Terminal.

Ferries depart every 20 to 30 minutes and services typically run from 7am to 7pm. New arrivals in Guangzhou can also find various options for boat rides and night cruises, among the recommended sightseeing activities, to get to know the city.