How to buy metro tickets in Guangzhou?

Guangzhou Metro offers flexible and easy ticketing options for both locals and visitors. Whether you prefer single-ride tickets, transport cards, or mobile payments, you’ll find a method that suits your needs.

Single-ride tickets

Ticket vending machines: Select your destination at machines inside metro stations and pay with cash or WeChat/Alipay.

Cloud ticket machines: Available at some stations; scan a code on your phone to buy tickets online and pick them up at the machine.

Transportation card payment

Yang Cheng Tong/Lingnan Pass: Yang Cheng Tong/Lingnan Pass are widely accepted transportation cards in Guangzhou. Tap to enter and exit. Fares are automatically deducted, with cumulative discounts.

China T-Union Card: A nationwide card accepted across cities; works the same as Yang Cheng Tong.

Mobile Payment

Guangzhou metro official app: Download the app, activate the ride code, and scan to enter. Linked to Alipay or WeChat for post-ride payment.

WeChat/Alipay ride code: Search “Guangzhou Metro Ride Code” in either app, generate the code, and scan at the gate.

Apple Pay / UnionPay QuickPass: Use a UnionPay card with the QuickPass logo or a phone with Apple Pay to tap and enter directly.

Day Pass/3-Day Pass

Best for short-term visitors or frequent travelers.

Where to buy: Available at metro station service centers or eMetro self-service machines. Allows unlimited rides within the valid time period.