Can you use Baidu Maps app in English? Is it safe for foreigners? We compare Baidu vs Apple Maps vs Amap (Gaode) – the best map apps for China travel!
What is Baidu Map App
Baidu Map App is basically China’s answer to Google Maps, but it’s got some serious upgrades. It’s got real-time traffic, AR navigation, and offline maps for when you’re in the middle of nowhere. Plus, it’s super accurate, even in places where your GPS usually craps out. It’s mainly in Chinese, but there’s an English version(tho very limited). It’s available on iOS, Android, and web, so you can use it pretty much anywhere.
Which Map App to Use in China?
- For English speakers who don't want to know any Chinese: Use Apple Maps or Amap first.
- For deep China travel: Tolerate Baidu’s Chinese UI + use translation tools.
- No Chinese number? Baidu’s ride-hailing/payments won’t work—stick to Amap/Alipay.
See all the China map apps compared in the following blog 👇
How to Set Up Baidu Map App
Source from Baidu
Yes, Baidu Maps is very Chinese-first—but with these hacks, you can navigate like a pro even if you don’t speak Mandarin.
Step 1: Download & Install
- iOS/Android:
Search “Baidu Maps” in the App Store or Google Play → Install.
Avoid third-party APKs—they’re often malware-infected.
Step 2: Set Up Your Account
- Register:
Tap 注册 (Register) → Use your international phone number or email.
Skip the face scan (tap 取消 / Cancel) unless you’re staying long-term. - Login:
Use Google/Facebook login for faster access (tap 其他账号登录 → “Google” or “Facebook”).
Change Baidu Map App to English (Sort of)
Many guides claim you can switch to English like: Tap 我的 (Profile) → 设置 (Settings ⚙️) → 语言 (Language).
BUT Truth is: As of 2024, this option no longer exists in most versions. Baidu removed it to streamline the app for domestic users.
Baidu Maps has no full English version. Only basic menus (like buttons) translate—search bars and maps stay in Chinese QWQ. Once u used it for a while, all the icon and Chinese will get pretty easy to know.
So How to Use Baidu Map App in English?
Use Google Translate’s Camera Mode:
- Open Google Translate → Camera → Point at Baidu Maps’ interface.
- Translates buttons like 搜索 (Search) or 路线 (Route) in real-time.
Memorize Key Terms:
- 到这去 = Start Navigation
- 收藏夹 = Favorites
- 周边 = Nearby (for ATMs, hotels, etc.)
Search in Pinyin:
- Example: Type “Tiananmen” instead of 天安门. Works for most landmarks.
Why Baidu Doesn’t Offer English Support
- Domestic Focus: 99% of users are Chinese speakers.
- Regulatory Hurdles: Mapping data is restricted under Chinese law.
- Cost vs. Benefit: Translating the app for <1% of foreign users isn’t profitable.
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How to Use Baidu Maps for Foreigners
How to Find a Place
- Type the name in Pinyin (e.g., “Wangfujing” for 王府井) in the search bar (搜索).
- Always turn off VPN—it messes with GPS!
How to Use Public Transport
- Subway exits: Look for 出口 (Exit) + numbers (e.g., 出口 C).
- Bus schedules: Tap 公交 → Check 首班车 (First bus) and 末班车 (Last bus).
Source from Baidu
How to Save & Rename Spots
- Tap the star ★ to save a place to 收藏夹 (Favorites).
- Rename it in English: Go to 收藏 → 地点, long-press the Chinese name, tap 重命名 (Rename).
How to Navigate
- Tap 路线 (Route), pick your mode (walking, subway, etc.).
- For AR mode, switch to 步行 (Walking) and tap the camera icon.
Does Baidu Maps Work Without a Chinese Phone Number?
Yes, but with major limitations:
1️⃣ Basic Navigation Works
- You can download the app and use maps/offline navigation without a Chinese number.
- Search requires Chinese characters or Pinyin (e.g., "Beijing Zhan" for 北京站).
2️⃣ Account Restrictions
- To save locations or use features like ride-hailing, a Chinese number is required for SMS verification.
- Workaround: Use email registration (limited success) or a friend’s number.
3️⃣ Better Alternatives
- Amap (Gaode): Partial English + works with international numbers.
- Apple Maps: Full English support (best for tourists).
Core Functions of Baidu Map App
Source from Baidu
Baidu Maps isn’t just for locals—here’s what matters for travelers:
- No-WiFi? No problem: Download offline maps (Offline Maps → 下载). Works in rural areas!
- AR Navigation: Point your camera at the street for arrows guiding you. Game-changer in crowded cities.
- Public Transport Schedules: Train/bus times are spot-on (even tells you which subway exit to use).
- Parking Finder: Shows real-time parking spots and prices. Lifesaver in cities like Shanghai.
- Secret Hack: Search places using Pinyin (e.g., “Tiananmen” instead of 天安门).
Is Baidu Map App Safe for Foreign Users?
It’s safe for basic navigation, but privacy is questionable.
Privacy Concerns
- Data Collected: Location history, search queries, device ID.
- Shared with: Chinese regulators (mandatory under local laws).
- Ads: Aggressive, Chinese-language ads based on your activity.
Safety Tips
- Use a Burner Email/Phone: Don’t link personal accounts (e.g., Google).
- Deny Permissions: Disable access to contacts, photos, etc.
- VPN Off While Navigating: Baidu Maps often glitches with VPNs.
Baidu Maps vs Amap (Gaode) vs Apple Maps - Best 3 Map App in China
- For Tourists: Use Apple Maps (simple, English) + Amap (backup for real-time updates).
- For Expats/Drivers: Amap (English menus + traffic alerts).
- For Offline/Deep Exploration: Baidu Maps (download maps, AR navigation).
| Feature | Baidu Maps | Amap (Gaode) | Apple Maps |
| Language Support | ❌ Chinese only | ✅ Partial English | ✅ Full English |
| Search | Chinese/Pinyin only | Pinyin + some English | English + major landmarks |
| Accuracy | 🏆 Best for rural/remote areas | 🏆 Best real-time traffic updates | ✅ Major cities only |
| Offline Maps | ✅ 200+ countries | ✅ China + basic English city guides | ❌ Not available in China |
| AR Navigation | ✅ (Walking mode) | ❌ | ❌ |
| Public Transit | ✅ Detailed but Chinese-only | ✅ Good, some English | 🏆 Best English interface |
| Driving Features | ✅ Parking info | 🏆 Speed camera alerts | ✅ Basic navigation |
| Bike Sharing | ❌ | ✅ (Hellobike/Meituan) | ❌ |
| Ride-hailing | ❌ Needs Chinese number | ✅ Via Alipay (no Chinese # needed) | ❌ |
| Setup | ❌ Chinese phone # required | ✅ Works with international numbers | ✅ No account needed (iOS only) |
| Best For | Offline/AR use, rural exploration | Drivers, real-time traffic | Tourists, English speakers |
See all the China map apps compared in the following blog 👇
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FAQs about Baidu Map App
Can you get Baidu Maps in English?
No, Baidu Maps does not offer a full English version. The interface remains mostly in Chinese, even if you find the language setting (which is now removed in most versions). Workaround: Use Google Translate's camera mode to scan and translate buttons/menus in real-time.Can foreigners use Baidu Maps?
Yes, but with limitations: Without Chinese: Difficult due to the all-Chinese interface. With Workarounds: Use Pinyin for place names. Save locations with English names (via ★ Favorites → Rename/重命名). Pair with Google Translate for real-time translations. Better Alternatives: Apple Maps: Fully English, works well in cities. Amap (Gaode): Partial English, better for drivers.How do I change the language on Baidu Maps app?
Old Method (No Longer Reliable): Previously: Profile (我的) → Settings (设置) → Language (语言) → English. Now: This option is gone in most app versions. Alternatives: Memorize key terms (e.g., 搜索 = Search, 路线 = Route). Use Pinyin (e.g., type "Tiananmen" for 天安门). Download Amap (Gaode) instead—it has partial English support.