How to ride Guangzhou Metro with a foreign bank card

Guangzhou supports tap-to-ride payment with international bank cards at nearly 400 metro stations. Confirm your card is accepted and keep a backup payment method.

International bank cards

The city's 2026 visitor-service update says nearly 400 metro stations allow passengers to tap international bank cards to enter. Card compatibility can vary, so keep another payment option ready.

At the gate

Tap the card on the gate's bank-card area. If it fails, use the station's current ticket option or ask staff for help.

Backups

Guangzhou's official payment handbook covers cash, mobile payment and overseas bank cards. Set up a supported mobile wallet and keep some RMB cash.