On the morning of September 29, Dongguan residents received exciting news, the city’s first batch of 10 “Metro Express” bus lines officially began pilot operation. This initiative is far more than just an expansion of bus routes; it represents an innovative solution to tackle the city’s persistent “last mile” commuting problem and advance the “Citywide Civility” campaign. From “having access to the metro” to “making it easier to take the metro”, Dongguan’s public transport network is becoming increasingly intelligent, efficient, and people-centered.
Background: From “rushing for the metro” to “network integration” - A deep transformation in urban mobility
With the opening of Dongguan Rail Transit Line 1 approaching, the city’s rail transit network is rapidly expanding. Yet, many residents share a common experience: “The longest part of my commute is often the short distance from home to the metro station”.
The lack of effective bus-metro connectivity, including coverage gaps and low transfer efficiency, has long weakened the overall appeal of public transportation. Recognizing this challenge, the Dongguan Municipal Transport Bureau took decisive action. Drawing inspiration from successful practices in Shenzhen and Guiyang, the city introduced its own “Metro Express” shuttle service, tailored to local travel patterns.
At the heart of this initiative is the goal of achieving “dual-network integration” between rail transit and bus systems. If the metro system serves as the city’s backbone, the metro express lines function as the capillaries, linking the core and peripheries of the urban transport network. Together, they form a dynamic, “fishbone-style” mobility structure that enables smooth and efficient urban circulation. This is not merely a service upgrade; it is a strategic leap in Dongguan’s broader effort to build a green, convenient, and modern urban mobility system, aligning with the city’s “Citywide Civility” campaign.
Highlights: A “short, frequent and fast” model creating a 10-minute metro connection network
The ten newly launched “Metro Express” bus lines are all strategically designed around key stations of Dongguan Rail Transit Line 2, including Dongcheng, Hongfu Road, and Xiping, covering the central urban area and several major towns such as Houjie and Chashan. With their distinctive “short, frequent, and fast” features, these routes are redefining last-mile bus-metro connectivity in Dongguan.
Short distance: Each route spans an average of only 5 kilometers, with loop routes such as R202 and R207 extending just 3 kilometers. They are precisely designed to connect metro stations with surrounding residential communities, schools, and hospitals, minimizing walking distance for passengers.
High frequency: All routes operate at 8-10 minute intervals, meaning passengers rarely have to wait long. The “arrive and go” experience greatly enhances commuting efficiency.
Fast operation: Each route is equipped with 2 to 4 buses and employs flexible operation models such as “stop-on-demand”, significantly improving bus turnover and achieving true “instant pick-up, instant go” connectivity.
In addition, all “Metro Express” buses feature a unified, highly visible design, serving as moving “symbols of convenience”. The goal is to cultivate a travel habit among citizens - “When you see it, you know convenience has arrived”.
Looking ahead: Beyond Line 2, a larger and smarter connection network is on the way.
The ten express routes serving Line 2 are just the beginning of a larger transformation. According to the Transport Bureau, planning is already underway for an expanded, multi-tiered network to connect with Dongguan Rail Transit Line 1, scheduled to open by the end of 2025.
Around Line 1, Dongguan is planning a range of diverse and layered connection models.
Community express lines: High-frequency commuter routes will connect major stations such as People’s Hospital, Central Plaza, and Songshan Lake with surrounding residential communities, targeting daily commuter demand.
Campus shuttle lines: Customized “from school gate to station gate” express lines will be introduced for Dongguan University of Technology and other school clusters, ensuring safe and convenient travel for students.
Culture & tourism lines: Weekend and holiday routes will link stations such as Dalingshan Forest Park and Songshan Lake in Misty Rain with popular scenic spots, catering to growing leisure travel needs.
Intercity express lines: Perhaps the most anticipated, Dongguan plans to explore fast intercity routes connecting Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and non-rail-served towns within Dongguan via the terminal stations of Line 1, strengthening regional connectivity across the Greater Bay Area.
“Our goal is that once Line 1 opens, citizens will simultaneously enjoy a fully developed and convenient ‘rail + bus’ integrated service”, said an official from the Dongguan Municipal Transport Bureau. “In the near future, Dongguan will be a city where people can get home, to work, or to school immediately after stepping off the metro - a city where public transport becomes the first choice for daily travel.”
The opening of the ten “Metro Express” bus lines marks a solid step forward in Dongguan’s journey toward becoming a “Citywide Civility” model city. With refined, people-oriented services filling in the gaps of the city’s micro-mobility system, and with innovative operations enhancing residents’ sense of happiness and fulfillment, Dongguan is not only building a more efficient and accessible transport network; it is also emerging as a warmer, smarter, and more livable modern metropolis.
Written by: Liu Minzhen Photo by: Chen Fan Edited by: Wang Baoguang
