Getting Around: Guiyang

Public Transit Network

The Guiyang Metro operates as a modern and efficient subway system. Line 1 runs north-south through the city center, connecting major areas. Line 2 runs east-west, providing direct connection from Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport to the city center.

Guiyang's extensive bus network covers the entire city and surrounding areas. Buses are generally slower than the metro due to traffic but reach more destinations directly. They are a good option for shorter distances or areas not yet served by the metro.

System Overview

Guiyang Metro: Clean, fast, avoids surface traffic. Lines 1 and 2 are operational; Line 3 and S1 are under construction.
Route Maps: Digital maps on Baidu Maps or Amap for real-time planning. Xinzhai is a transfer station.
Ticketing: Metro fares are distance-based (¥2-8). Use single-journey tokens, a "Guizhou Tong" card, or mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay).
Hours & Frequency: Metro operates 6:30 AM-10:30/11:00 PM, high frequency during peak hours (5-8 minutes). Buses run from early morning to late evening.

Mobile Payments

WeChat Pay or Alipay simplify ticketing for metro and buses. This is the preferred method for most locals, providing a seamless and cashless experience.

Language Aid

Use Baidu Maps or Amap for real-time public transport directions. A basic comprehension of Chinese characters or Pinyin aids navigation.

Accessibility

Metro stations are generally accessible with elevators and escalators. Public buses and older city areas may have limited accessibility for mobility needs.

Efficiency Tips

App Use

Baidu Maps or Amap are indispensable for real-time public transport directions.
WeChat Pay or Alipay setup simplifies ticketing for metro and buses.
Avoid peak rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM) for less crowded journeys.

General Advice

A basic comprehension of Chinese characters or Pinyin helps with street names and station names.
Metro and bus systems offer efficient and cost-effective travel within the city.
These tips contribute to smooth navigation and a pleasant travel experience.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Green or blue, with "TAXI" signs. Metered fares. Can be hailed on the street.

Typical Fares

Flag-down: ¥8-10. Per km: ¥1.6-2.2. Airport to city center: ¥50-80.

Payment Methods

Cash accepted, but WeChat Pay or Alipay are strongly preferred by drivers.

Didi Chuxing

China's dominant ride-sharing app (like Uber/Lyft). Various service levels. Link international credit cards.

Rental Options

While car rentals for self-driving present complexities for tourists, other rental options like bicycles offer ways to explore Guiyang.

Car Rental Notes

Car rental services are available from major Chinese companies (e.g., Shouqi, eHi).
A valid Chinese driving license or temporary Chinese driving permit is necessary to legally rent and drive.
Without a valid Chinese permit, self-driving is largely impractical for most foreign tourists.
Road conditions outside major cities can be challenging; road signs are mainly in Chinese.

Scooter & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists and often require a Chinese motorcycle license.
Bicycle sharing is popular (Meituan, HelloBike) for exploring parks or specific neighborhoods.
Use bike-sharing apps (requiring Chinese phone number and WeChat Pay/Alipay) to locate, unlock, and pay for bicycles.
Safety concerns exist due to chaotic traffic if cycling on city streets.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road. International traffic signs generally appear, but place names are mostly in Chinese characters.
Major roads and highways are well-maintained. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours and weekends.
Parking can be challenging in crowded urban areas. Look for designated parking lots or underground garages.

Rural roads can be less developed and winding.
Aggressive driving practices exist. Less strict adherence to traffic laws compared to many Western countries.
Potential for landslides during heavy rain in mountainous areas.

Specialty Vehicle Options

Tour Buses

Official hop-on-hop-off services are limited. Some local tour operators run buses for day trips to attractions outside city center.

Water Transportation

Not a significant transport mode. Recreational boating exists in parks and lakes (Huaxi Park, Red Maple Lake) for scenery.

Cable Cars

Qianling Mountain Cableway within Qianling Park offers scenic views, ascending to Hongfu Temple and higher viewpoints.

Walking & Cycling

Guiyang offers pedestrian-friendly areas and limited cycling infrastructure. Knowing where to walk and cycle maximizes enjoyment and safety.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

City Center: Areas around Jiaxiu Tower and along the Nanming River for pleasant walks.
Qianling Park: Excellent for walking with paved paths to temples, lakes, and Qianling Mountain.
Qingyan Ancient Town: Entirely pedestrian-friendly with narrow cobblestone alleys and ancient city walls.
Huaxi Park: Sprawling park with picturesque lakes and bridges, good for leisurely strolls.

Cycling Insights

Bicycle infrastructure is limited, mainly within parks or new scenic routes.
Cyclists generally share roads with vehicles, which can be chaotic due to heavy traffic.
Exercise extreme caution if cycling on city streets.
Bike-sharing programs (Meituan, HelloBike) are good for casual rides in less congested areas.

Accessibility & Tours

Walking Tours

Formal English-language guided walking tours are limited. Local tour operators or private guides might offer customized tours, especially in Qingyan Ancient Town.

Self-guided walks are easy with mapping apps.

Mobility Access

Newer infrastructure like the Guiyang Metro holds relative accessibility with elevators and ramps.

Older city parts, public buses, and some traditional attractions may present challenges.

Planning Aid

Research specific locations beforehand. Consider hiring private transport or a local guide if accessibility is a main concern.

Prioritize your comfort and ease of movement.

Restricted Zones

Pedestrian & Cyclist No-Go Areas

Major arterial roads and multi-lane highways during rush hour are not ideal for walking or cycling.
This is due to heavy traffic, fast-moving vehicles, and sometimes narrow or nonexistent sidewalks.
Always use designated pedestrian crossings and pay close attention to traffic signals.

Safety Protocols

Plan your routes to avoid high-traffic areas if walking or cycling.
Consider helmets for cycling, even if not legally required, for personal safety.
Stay on marked paths in parks and tourist areas.

Navigation Summary

Guiyang's diverse transportation landscape accommodates various travel preferences. Whether by efficient metro, extensive bus network, or convenient ride-sharing, moving within the city is straightforward.

Embrace the local transport options for an authentic and accessible exploration of Guiyang.

Getting Around Guiyang