Guangzhou

๐ŸšŒ

Bus Network

Sections

Overview of the Guangzhou Bus Network

Guangzhouโ€™s bus network is one of the largest in China, with thousands of routes covering the city and its surrounding areas. The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and well-maintained, making them a comfortable and affordable way to get around the city.

Categories of Buses

The bus system in Guangzhou is divided into several categories based on the type of service and route:

  1. Regular City Buses (ๆ™ฎ้€šๅ…ฌไบค):

    • These buses operate on standard routes within the city and are the most commonly used.
    • They are numbered (e.g., Bus 1, Bus 301).

  2. Express Buses (ๅฟซ้€Ÿๅ…ฌไบค):

    • These buses have fewer stops and are designed for faster travel across longer distances.
    • They are often marked with an "Express" or "K" before the route number (e.g., K1, K2).

  3. Night Buses (ๅคœ็ญๅ…ฌไบค):

    • Night buses operate after regular service hours, typically from 10:30 PM to 6:00 AM.
    • They are marked with an "N" before the route number (e.g., N1, N2).

  4. BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) Buses:

    • Guangzhou has a dedicated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, one of the largest in the world.
    • BRT buses run on dedicated lanes, ensuring faster travel times.
    • BRT stations are elevated platforms, similar to metro stations, and are located along major roads like Zhongshan Avenue.

  5. Tourist Buses (ๆ—…ๆธธไธ“็บฟ):

    • These buses are designed for tourists and connect major attractions such as Canton Tower, Baiyun Mountain, and Chimelong Safari Park.

  6. Suburban and Intercity Buses:

    • These buses connect Guangzhou with nearby towns and cities in the Pearl River Delta region.

Ticket Costs

The cost of bus tickets in Guangzhou is very affordable. Hereโ€™s a breakdown:

  1. Regular City Buses:

    • Flat fare: RMB 2 per ride (some shorter routes may cost RMB 1).
    • Air-conditioned buses are standard, and the fare is included in the base price.

  2. BRT Buses:

    • Flat fare: RMB 2 per ride.

  3. Express Buses:

    • Fares vary depending on the distance but typically range from RMB 2 to RMB 10.

  4. Night Buses:

    • Flat fare: RMB 3 per ride.

  5. Tourist Buses:

    • Fares vary depending on the route and destination, typically between RMB 10 and RMB 30.

Payment Methods

  1. Cash:

    • You can pay in cash by dropping the exact fare into the fare box near the driver. Note that no change is given, so carry small bills or coins.

  2. Yang Cheng Tong Card (็พŠๅŸŽ้€š):

    • This is a rechargeable smart card used for public transportation in Guangzhou, including buses, metro, and ferries.
    • Using the Yang Cheng Tong card offers a discount on fares (e.g., RMB 1.8 instead of RMB 2 for regular buses).
    • Cards can be purchased and recharged at metro stations, convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven), and designated kiosks.

  3. Mobile Payment:

    • Most buses in Guangzhou now accept mobile payment via apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay. Simply scan the QR code near the fare box to pay.

  4. Contactless Bank Cards:

    • Some buses also accept contactless payment via UnionPay cards.

Operating Hours

  • Regular Buses: Typically operate from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
  • Night Buses: Operate from 10:30 PM to 6:00 AM.
  • BRT Buses: Generally run from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, but specific routes may vary.

Major Routes and Key Areas

Here are some popular bus routes and the areas they serve:

  1. Bus 301A:

    • Route: Guangzhou East Railway Station โ†’ Panyu Square
    • Covers major areas like Tianhe District and Panyu.

  2. BRT Route B1:

    • Route: Tianhe Sports Center โ†’ Guangzhou Science City
    • Runs along Zhongshan Avenue, a major commercial and residential corridor.

  3. Tourist Bus Line 1:

    • Route: Canton Tower โ†’ Baiyun Mountain
    • Ideal for sightseeing.

  4. Night Bus N1:

    • Route: Guangzhou Railway Station โ†’ Tianhe Bus Terminal
    • Covers key transport hubs during late hours.

How to Navigate the System

  1. Plan Your Route:

    • Use apps like Baidu Maps (available in English) or Gaode Maps (Amap) to plan your journey. These apps provide real-time bus schedules, routes, and estimated travel times.
    • The Guangzhou Metro app also includes bus route information.

  2. Bus Stops:

    • Bus stops are clearly marked with route numbers and a list of stops in Chinese. Major stops may also have English translations.
    • Pay attention to the direction of travel, as many routes have buses going in opposite directions.

  3. Boarding and Exiting:

    • Enter through the front door and exit through the rear door.
    • If using a Yang Cheng Tong card or mobile payment, tap your card or scan the QR code when boarding.

  4. BRT System:

    • For BRT buses, enter through the designated BRT station. Tap your card or pay at the station gate before boarding.

Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

  1. Peak Hours:

    • Buses can get very crowded during peak hours (7:30 AMโ€“9:30 AM and 5:30 PMโ€“7:30 PM). Plan your travel accordingly.

  2. Language Barrier:

    • Most bus drivers and passengers speak Mandarin or Cantonese, and English is not widely spoken. Having your destination written in Chinese characters can be helpful.

  3. Politeness:

    • Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities. This is a common courtesy in China.

  4. Be Prepared for Traffic:

    • Guangzhou is a bustling city, and traffic congestion is common, especially during rush hours. Allow extra time for your journey.

  5. Stay Alert:

    • Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded buses.

  6. Exact Change:

    • If paying in cash, ensure you have the exact fare ready before boarding.

Conclusion

The bus network in Guangzhou is an affordable and convenient way to explore the city. With a little preparation and the use of modern tools like mobile payment and navigation apps, you can navigate the system with ease. Whether youโ€™re commuting to work, visiting tourist attractions, or exploring local neighborhoods, the bus system offers a reliable and budget-friendly option for getting around Guangzhou.