Navigating Shenzhen by subway is an efficient and convenient way to explore this vibrant city. One of the first things you need to figure out is how to pay and pass through the gates. Let's break it down for you!

☞Shenzhen Metro Website

Payment Methods and Gate - Passing Ways

A. Using Mobile NFC Function

Download the “Shenzhen Tong” Transportation Card:
- First, make sure your phone has NFC (Near Field Communication) capabilities.
- Then, head to your app store and download the “Shenzhen Tong” app. This app allows you to add a virtual Shenzhen Tong transportation card to your phone.
- When adding the card for the first time, there are some fees involved. If you have an iOS device, you'll need to pay a refundable service fee of 20 yuan. Android users, on the other hand, will be charged a non - refundable card - opening fee of 16 yuan.
- After getting your card set up, you can easily recharge it with the amount you need for your travels.
  
  When you reach the subway gate, simply hold your phone near the card - reader area (usually marked clearly). The gate will detect your virtual card, and the fare will be deducted automatically.
  
  It's as simple as that!
  
  When you activate the NFC service, you can easily pass through the gate

B. Via WeChat Mini - Programs

Shenzhen Tong Mini - Program or Shenzhen Metro Mini - Program:
- Open up your trusty WeChat app. In the search bar, look for either the “Shenzhen Tong” mini - program or the “Shenzhen Metro” mini - program.
- Once you've found the right one, open it up and locate the “Ride Code” option. When you click on this, a unique QR code will pop up on your screen.
- For subway rides, just show this QR code at the ticket - checking gates. But here's a little tip: if you're using this method for the subway, there's no discount. However, if you use it for buses, you'll get a sweet 20% discount on the fare! Just scan the code at the bus fare - collection machine when you hop on the bus.
  This is the WeChat mini program page

C. Through Alipay

Alipay Ride Code:
- Launch your Alipay app.
- Find the “Transportation” option. In some versions, it might be in the main menu, or you may need to search for it. Once you've located it, click on “Subway”.
- A ride code will be generated for you. Scan this code at the subway station's entrance gates to breeze right in.
- Similar to the WeChat mini - program for the subway, there's no discount when using Alipay's ride code for subway rides.
- But keep an eye out, as the discount policy for buses may vary.

D. Shenzhen Tong Physical Card

Purchase Options:
- You can buy a Shenzhen Tong physical card at metro station counters. There are two types to choose from: the basic version, which is perfect for everyday use, and the commemorative version, which often has cool designs.
- After getting your card, you'll need to recharge it with money. You can do this at metro station counters, some convenience stores, or at Shenzhen Tong service outlets.
- When it's time to use the card, just tap it on the card - reader at the subway or bus gates. The fare will be deducted from the balance on your card, and the gate will open for you to pass through.
- Shenzhen Tong's eight customer service outlets (See the end of the article for the 8 specific outlets) have all been equipped with smart POS devices that can accept overseas card payments. These POS devices support six major international bank cards, including VISA, MasterCard, Discover Card, American Express (AE), Diners Club, and JCB.
  You can also consult the staff offline to learn more about purchasing services

E. Buying a Single - Journey Ticket

At the Metro Station Entrance:
- As you enter the subway station, look for the ticket vending machines.
- They're usually easy to spot, often with bright lights and clear instructions.
- Once you've found the machine, touch the screen. You'll see options to select your desired subway line. After choosing the line, pick your destination station.
- Then, follow the on - screen prompts for payment. You can use electronic payment methods like Alipay or WeChat Pay. If you prefer, you can also insert cash into the machine if it has a cash - accepting slot. Just make sure to have the right change handy!
- You can pay for tickets by cash or card here
  After you've paid successfully, the machine will spit out a single - journey ticket. Hold onto this ticket and insert it into the ticket - checking machine at the gate when entering the subway station. When you reach your destination, insert the ticket again into the exit gate's ticket - checking machine, and the gate will open, allowing you to continue on your way.

With these payment methods and gate - passing techniques, you'll be a pro at using Shenzhen's subway system in no time. So, hop on board and start exploring all that this amazing city has to offer! ☞further/related reading: How to Spend 72 Hours in Shenzhen (2025): Tech Hubs & Coastal Art

Shenzhen Tong's eight customer service outlets

(1) Convention and Exhibition Center Station Service Outlet

Address: Near Exits B/C, Convention and Exhibition Center Station (Line 1/Luobao Line), Shenzhen Metro

Service Hours: 8:30 – 19:30

(2) Laojie Station Service Outlet

Address: Near Exit B, Laojie Station (Line 3/Longgang Line), Shenzhen Metro

Service Hours: 8:30 – 19:30

(3) Bao'an Central Station Service Outlet

Address: Near Exits E/F, Bao'an Central Station (Line 1/Luobao Line), Shenzhen Metro

Service Hours: 8:30 – 19:30

(4) Pingshanwei Station Service Outlet

Address: Near Exits A/B, Pingshanwei Station (Line 14/Eastern Express Line), Shenzhen Metro

Service Hours: 8:30 – 19:30

(5) Nanshan Service Outlet

Address: Bus Terminal of Route 26, Taoyuan Village, Longzhu 6th Road, Nanshan District

Service Hours: 8:30 – 11:30; 12:30 – 19:30

(6) Dongchang Service Outlet

Address: Next to Bus Terminal of Route 203, No. 2017-9 Taibai Road, Luohu District

Service Hours: 8:30 – 11:30; 12:30 – 19:30

(7) Luohu Convenience Service Point

Address: Near Exit A2, Luohu Station (Line 1/Luobao Line), Shenzhen Metro

Service Hours: 9:00 – 12:00; 13:00 – 19:00

(8) Shenzhen North Station Convenience Service Point

Address: Level 1F, Zone S, Shenzhen North Station (Line 5/Huanzhong Line), Shenzhen Metro

Service Hours: 9:00 – 12:00; 13:00 – 19:00

2025 Exploring the Shenzhen Metro: Hand-in-Hand Tutorial

About Go2

Business

Contact Us

Follow us on