How to Use Amap (Gaode Map) Guide for Foreigners in China

If you’re traveling to or living in China, you’ve probably noticed that Google Maps doesn’t work well here—its data is outdated, and many features are unavailable. But don’t worry: Amap (also known as Gaode Map) is China’s most popular navigation app, designed specifically for the country’s roads, public transport, and local services.

What Is Amap (Gaode Map) in China?

Amap (short for “Gaode Map” in Chinese, 高德地图) is China’s leading digital map, navigation, and location-based service platform owned by Alibaba Group. Launched in 2002, it has become the go-to app for over 700 million users in China, offering real-time navigation, traffic updates, ride-hailing, and detailed information about local businesses, attractions, and public services.

Unlike Google Maps, Amap is fully optimized for China’s road networks, including newly built highways, small alleys, and real-time traffic conditions, making it the most reliable navigation tool for foreigners in China.

Does Amap Have an English Version? How to Switch to English

Yes! Amap officially launched its English version in January 2025, tailored specifically for international users, and it now supports 15 languages in total, including English, Spanish, French, and Japanese. Switching to English is easy—follow these steps:

1. Open the Amap app.
2. Tap the “Me” tab (the profile icon in the bottom right corner—looks like a person).
3. Scroll down and tap “Settings” (⚙️ icon, labeled “设置” in Chinese).
4. Select “General” (通用设置) and then tap “Language” (语言).
5. Choose “English” from the list. The app will automatically refresh, and all menus, buttons, and instructions will switch to English.

Alternative: If you’re using the international version “Amap Go” (available on App Store and Google Play), it will automatically prompt you to select a language when you first open it, including English. The English version also includes an English ride-hailing interface, making it even easier for foreigners to book rides.

Amap vs. Google Maps, Baidu Maps & Apple Maps in China

Credit: jet ruby

If you’re confused about which map app to use in China, here’s a quick comparison to help you choose. We recommend Amap and Apple Maps for foreigners, as they offer the most accurate and user-friendly experience:

Final Verdict: If you have an iPhone, Apple Maps is the easiest (it uses Amap’s data but is fully English). If you have an Android device, or want more features (like ride-hailing and detailed local info), Amap is the best choice. Avoid Google Maps and Baidu Maps (unless you speak Chinese).

Amap Features You’ll Love

• Real-Time Traffic Light Countdown: Amap shows the exact number of seconds left for red/green lights, so you can plan your stops and starts without guessing. This feature covers millions of traffic lights across China, thanks to AI technology and data from local traffic departments.
• Accurate Fare Estimates: For driving and ride-hailing, Amap calculates the estimated cost based on distance, traffic, and time, so you won’t be overcharged.
• Offline Maps: Download maps of cities in advance to use Amap without an internet connection—perfect for areas with poor signal. Go to “Me” > “Offline Maps” to download the map for your destination.
• Nearby Search: Tap the “Nearby” icon to find restaurants, hotels, ATMs, public toilets, and other facilities near you—all with English descriptions (for popular spots).

Where to Download & Install Amap

Amap is free to download and available on both iOS and Android devices. Here’s how to get it:

• iOS Users: Open the App Store, search for “Amap” (not “Gaode Map”—the English name is preferred for international users) and tap “Get” to install. It works seamlessly on iPhones without any extra setup.
• Android Users: If you’re outside China, you can download Amap from Google Play. If you’re already in China and can’t access Google Play, you can get it from local app stores like Huawei AppGallery, Xiaomi App Store, or Oppo App Store. Search for “高德地图” (Gaode Map) since the Chinese name is more commonly used in local app stores.

Pro Tip: Download Amap before you arrive in China to avoid any internet or access issues. You can use it in guest mode without logging in—no Chinese phone number required.

How to Use Amap (Gaode Map) in China

Amap is user-friendly, even if you don’t speak Chinese. Here’s how to use its core features:

Search for Your Destination

1. On the Amap homepage, tap the search bar at the top (it says “Search for a place or address” in English).
2. Type in your destination in English (e.g., “The Bund, Shanghai” or “Beijing Capital International Airport”) or Pinyin (e.g., “Wangfujing”). Amap will automatically show relevant results with English labels.
3. Tap the correct destination from the list—it will appear on the map, and you’ll see options to get there (navigation, ride-hailing, etc.).

Select Different Travel Modes

Amap supports four main travel modes, plus ride-hailing, to suit all your needs. After selecting your destination, tap the “Route” button (blue arrow icon) to choose your mode:

• Driving: Perfect for those renting a car or driving in China. Amap shows real-time traffic (red = congested, orange = moderate, green = smooth), estimated travel time, the number of traffic lights, and even real-time traffic light countdowns so you know exactly when the light will change. It also offers multiple routes to avoid traffic jams.
• Transit: Ideal for using buses, subways, or a combination of public transport. Amap shows detailed routes, including which subway line to take, which station to exit, and how long you’ll walk between stops. It also updates in real-time if there’s a delay or route change.
• Cycling: Great for short trips. Amap shows bike lanes, recommended routes, and the estimated time to your destination. You can also find shared bikes nearby (if available) through the app.
• Walking: Perfect for exploring cities on foot. Amap gives turn-by-turn directions, avoids busy roads when possible, and shows nearby attractions or facilities along the way.

Book a Taxi/Ride-Hailing in Amap

Amap has a built-in ride-hailing feature that lets you book taxis or private cars directly in the app—no need for a separate ride app. Here’s how:

1. After selecting your destination, tap the “Taxi” icon (it looks like a taxi car) on the route options.
2. Amap will show you the estimated fare, the number of available taxis nearby, and the estimated pickup time.
3. Confirm your pickup location (it’s usually your current location, but you can adjust it) and tap “Call Taxi” or “Book Ride.”
4. You can pay using Alipay or WeChat Pay, both of which accept international bank cards, making it easy for foreigners to pay without cash.

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