Confusing Metro line 3 from the airport
Hello,
We stay at the Fraser suites and I think our metro station is ShiPaiQiao. This station is served by the line 3 metro. But looking at the metro map, this metro has three last stations e.g. Tianhe Coach Terminal, Haibang and the airport. Will the metro line 3 be a direct link from the airport to ShiPaiQiao or do I need to transfer? Our flight from Japan arrive at 18:30. Think we leave the airport around 20:00 will it be too busy in the metro with 1 normal size and 1 carry on suitcase?
Just another side question, when will metro line 10 start to run?
Thanks
Guangzhou Metro Line 3 is indeed a bit confusing because it has a “Y-shaped” route in the north. From the airport, Line 3 splits into three northern termini: Tianhe Coach Terminal, Haibang, and the Airport itself. However, traveling from the airport to ShiPaiQiao is straightforward.
Direct Link from Airport to ShiPaiQiao:
- ShiPaiQiao Station is on the main north-south trunk of Line 3. If you board the metro at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Terminal 1 or 2), you will take a northbound train towards Tiyu Xilu (downtown direction) or any train marked “to Tianhe Coach Terminal” or “to Haibang.”
- You do not need to transfer as long as you take a northbound train from the airport. All trains from the airport pass through ShiPaiQiao on their way downtown.
- The airport trains are generally labeled clearly, and station announcements are in both Chinese and English.
Travel Time and Crowds:
- The journey from the airport to ShiPaiQiao takes approximately 50–55 minutes.
- Since your flight arrives at 18:30 and you expect to leave the airport around 20:00, you will be traveling during the evening rush hour. Line 3 can be busy, especially at central stations like Jiahewanggang and Tiyu Xilu.
- With one normal-size and one carry-on suitcase each, it is manageable, but be prepared for some crowding. Using elevators or escalators to move between platform and concourse will help.
About Metro Line 10:
- Guangzhou Metro Line 10 is still under construction. According to the latest official updates, the opening date is expected around 2024–2025 for initial sections. Exact operational dates may vary depending on final approvals and testing schedules.
- For now, you will rely on Line 3 for airport transfers and connections to other lines.
In summary, you can take a direct Line 3 train from Guangzhou airport to ShiPaiQiao without transfers. Expect some crowds around 20:00, but it is manageable with luggage. Line 10 is not yet operational, so it will not affect your trip.
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