Navigation software is essential for modern travel, but choosing the right app can be challenging for international visitors to China.
For iPhone and Mac Users
If you’re using Apple devices, Apple Maps actually works better than Google Maps in China. It offers an English interface and functions without requiring a VPN, making it a convenient choice for iOS users.
For Android Users
If you’re using Apple devices, Apple Maps actually works better than Google Maps in China. It offers an English interface and functions without requiring a VPN, making it a convenient choice for iOS users.
Recommended Chinese Navigation Apps
Until recently, Chinese mapping apps weren’t practical for international travelers unless they could read Chinese. However, both major Chinese mapping platforms now offer multilingual support, making them highly recommended options:
Amap (Gaode Maps) - Highly Recommended for Both iOS and Android
Amap is the top recommendation for travelers in China:
Key Features:
Widely used throughout China (owned by Alibaba, same company as Alipay)
Provides real-time traffic information
Multiple transportation modes: driving, public transit, cycling, walking
Integrated taxi booking functionality
Multilingual interface available in English, Japanese, and Korean
Location names are primarily displayed in Chinese
Optional registration for syncing favorites across devices
Comprehensive offline maps
Phone number registration can be skipped without affecting functionality
Baidu Maps - Strong Alternative Option
Baidu Maps is another excellent choice:
Key Features:
Widely used across China (developed by Baidu, China’s major search engine company)
Excellent AR walking navigation feature
Comprehensive street view imagery
Dual-language interface support
Particularly strong for public transportation routes
No mandatory registration required
Registration optional but unlocks additional features like location history Offline maps available
Apple Maps - Good for iOS Users
For iPhone users, Apple Maps deserves consideration:
Advantages:
Native English search, display, and navigation functions
Works directly in China without additional setup
Familiar interface for Apple users
Limitations:
Updates in China are sometimes delayed
Occasional accuracy issues due to slower data updates
Google Maps - Familiar but Limited
While you’re likely familiar with Google Maps, its functionality in China is restricted:
Requires VPN access
Reduced reliability and accuracy
Best used as a backup option alongside Chinese apps
Useful for English searches and international POI recognition
Strategic Usage Tips
A、Multi-App Approach
- Primary Navigation: Use Gaode for driving and cycling; Baidu for walking with AR assistance
- International Reference: Keep Google Maps for English searches and global location names
- Offline Backup: Consider Maps.me or HERE WeGo for offline capabilities
B.Chooseby Transportation Mode
- Driving: Gaode offers the best traffic insights; Baidu is also reliable
- Public Transportation: Baidu provides more detailed bus and train route information、
- Walking: Baidu’s AR navigation feature excels for pedestrian navigation
- Cycling: Gaode considers terrain and cycling-specific routing
- Intercity Rail: Use dedicated apps like 12306 or High-Speed Rail Assistant for bookings, then use Gaode for station navigation
C、LanguageConsiderations
- Both Gaode and Baidu offer English interfaces but may display location names primarily in
- Chinese Google Maps remains ideal for international travelers seeking English content, despite reduced reliability in China
- Consider downloading translation apps to help with Chinese place names
Final Recommendation
For the best experience traveling in China, download both Gaode and Baidu Maps before your trip. Use them as your primary navigation tools while keeping Google Maps as a supplementary reference for
English searches. This multi-app strategy will ensure you have reliable navigation regardless of your location or transportation method within China.
