[4] The first section, from Xilang to Huangsha, opened on 28 June 1997, making Guangzhou the fourth city in mainland China to have a metro system.

After the opening of the first section of the Guangfo Metro, it became a key corridor for traffic between the central urban areas of Guangzhou and neighboring Foshan.

Trains are often crowded during the morning and evening peak hours, and the platforms of key transfer stations (Gongyuanqian, Tiyu West Road etc.)

16 Middle School attracted media attention by opening protesting the rational of the renovation, arguing the new uniform tiles destroy the unique decoration and design features of each Line 1 station.

[14][15] In 2017, the platform of Line 1 of Guangzhou East Railway Station began to have its wall tiles and false ceiling decorations replaced.

[18] The refurbished trains feature rebuilt interiors, lighting and electrical systems as well as LCD passenger information screens.

In order to ensure the continuation of reliable daily operations, it was planned to upgrade the entire aging existing signaling system of Line 1.

[20] In February 2022, Guangzhou Metro decided to use the holidays in March and April to upgrade the catenary, signaling system and other equipment of Line 1.