Using the metro to get to the Canton Fair in Guangzhou is a convenient and efficient way to travel. Here's a general guide on how to use the metro system to reach the fair:
Arrive in Guangzhou: Most international visitors will arrive at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
Airport Express: From the airport, you can take the Airport Express metro line to the city center. The journey typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic.
Transfer to Guangzhou Metro Line 3: At the city center, transfer to Line 3 of the Guangzhou Metro, which has two branches (North and South). You'll want to take the branch that goes to the Pazhou area.
Get Off at Pazhou Station: The Canton Fair is located near Pazhou Station on Line 3. Once you arrive at Pazhou Station, follow the signs or ask for directions to the fair's venue, as there are usually clear指示牌 (zhǐshìpái) or signboards guiding visitors to the fair.
Walk or Shuttle Bus: From Pazhou Station, it's a short walk or a shuttle bus ride to the fairgrounds. During the Canton Fair, there are often free shuttle buses provided to transport visitors between the metro station and the exhibition halls.
Buy a Metro Ticket or Use a Card: To use the metro, you'll need to buy a ticket from a ticket machine or use a rechargeable metro card like the Yangchengtong Card (羊城通卡), which can be used across Guangzhou's public transportation network.
Follow Metro Etiquette: Be aware of and follow local metro etiquette, such as standing on the right side on escalators to allow others to pass on the left, not eating or drinking inside the metro cars, and giving up your seat for the elderly, pregnant women, or people with disabilities.
Check the Schedule: Make sure to check the operating hours of the metro, especially if you're traveling early in the morning or late at night.
Be Aware of Your Belongings: As with any crowded public transportation, keep an eye on your personal belongings.
Emergency Exits: Familiarize yourself with the locations of emergency exits in case of an emergency.
Remember that the Canton Fair is a major event, so the metro stations near the fairgrounds can get very crowded during the event. Allow extra time for your journey and be prepared for larger crowds than usual.