AMap Global:
Navigate China in English
高德地图 · Gāodé Dìtú
AMap Global is the English-friendly version of Gaode Map for overseas visitors. It supports English interface, place search, route planning, real-time traffic, and transit options in major Chinese cities.
Quick setup overview
English interface · place search · route planning · transit · real-time traffic
Download AMap Global
Search "AMap Global" on App Store or Google Play — this is the English-friendly version for overseas visitors. Basic search and navigation can usually be used without logging in.
Allow location access
Grant location permission when prompted. AMap uses the GCJ-02 coordinate system, which is standard for major mainland China map apps.
Set language if needed
If the app opens in Chinese, check Me → Settings → General → Language and select English if available. Exact labels may vary by app version.
Search in English
Major landmarks, hotels, airports, metro stations, and tourist attractions often work in English. If a place does not appear, try pinyin, the Chinese name, or a nearby landmark.
Pick transport mode and navigate
Choose driving, transit, walking, or cycling. In major Chinese cities, AMap can show metro and bus route options with real-time transit information where available. Coverage and live data may vary by city.
Why Google Maps is not enough in mainland China
Google Maps can be useful for pre-trip orientation, but AMap Global is better for live navigation once you are in China.
Coordinate mismatch
Mainland China uses the GCJ-02 coordinate system. Coordinate offset problems can appear when comparing AMap with WGS-84-based maps, raw GPS data, or Google Maps. In-app navigation within AMap should be aligned correctly.
Limited live transit and place data
Live transit and place data in Google Maps may be limited or outdated in mainland China. AMap Global can show metro and bus routes with real-time transit information in major Chinese cities, where available.
Google services may be limited in mainland China
Google Maps may not provide reliable live navigation or transit data in mainland China. Google Maps can be useful for pre-trip orientation, but AMap Global is better for live navigation once you are in China.
Practical tips
Screenshot your hotel address in Chinese
Before heading out, screenshot your hotel's Chinese address. If you get lost, show any local or taxi driver — they can usually help you find your way.
Save important places offline
AMap can support offline maps for saved cities and areas. Go to Me → Offline Maps, choose the city, and download before going out. Exact labels may vary by app version. Offline maps help with basic viewing and navigation, but live traffic, live transit updates, and route changes require internet.
Search English first, then pinyin or Chinese
Try English for place names first. If a location does not appear, try the pinyin romanisation or the Chinese name. Many major landmarks, hotels, and stations are findable in English.
DiDi and AMap location data
DiDi may use AMap-related map and location data in China. Choosing the correct pickup and destination pins in AMap can help avoid ride-hailing location mistakes.
If maps fail to load
AMap does not require a VPN in mainland China. If maps fail to load or location behaves strangely, try disabling VPN if one is running and reopen the app.
Need transport handled for you?
We configure everything before you land.
Our Soft Landing service sets up AMap Global, DiDi, WeChat Pay, and Alipay before your arrival — so you step off the plane and move.
View Soft Landing ServiceRelated guides