Xiamen city inaugurated two new metro lines on September 16, 2026, increasing its metro system by 57.4 km, a 37% extension from 98.4 km to 155.8 km. During an initial trial phase, the new lines operate with limited service hours and long waiting times between trains, allowing passengers to travel for free.
Line 4 Launch and Features
Line 4 opened with a first section of 31.3 km, connecting Jimei Software Park North and Qianwu. This fully automated line runs on 1.5 kV DC overhead power and uses four-car B-type trains. It is designed as an express route, reaching a top operating speed of 120 km/h
with wider station spacing to support faster travel between major hubs.
Line 4 is currently under extension at both ends. It will serve the Xiang’an International Airport once construction is complete and will add an infill station named Xiyan. Additionally, a five-station branch line is planned to run southwest from Xiamen North main line station to Huizuo / Maluan Bay South.
Line 6: Xiamen’s First Inter-Urban Metro
Line 6 spans 26.1 km and marks Xiamen’s first inter-urban metro, linking Huaqiao University in Xiamen with Jiaojiang Road in suburban Zhangzhou. The line also deploys fully automated four-car B-type trains powered by 1.5 kV DC overhead electrification.
Currently,
a two-station extension in Zhangzhou is under construction, alongside an infill station at Chenjing within Xiamen. Line 6 was developed and is jointly operated by Xiamen and Zhangzhou municipalities, facilitating through services between the two cities.
Context on Network Expansion
The introduction of Line 4 reflects China’s increasing deployment of express metro lines that connect major transport hubs over longer distances with fewer stops. Line 6 represents a significant development as Xiamen’s first metro line extending beyond city limits to neighboring Zhangzhou.
The free travel during limited operations serves as a running-in period as the new automated lines commence revenue service. The expansion improves
transit options for passengers traveling within Xiamen and to surrounding regions, increasing regional rail accessibility.
