Why your usual maps break
Mainland China uses a different coordinate offset and local map data partnerships. Google’s consumer maps are not the tool locals use. Plan on Apple Maps and/or Amap (高德地图) before you need them at a metro exit.
iPhone: Apple Maps first
- Download offline areas (Beijing, Shanghai, etc.) while you still have fast Wi-Fi at home or at the hotel.
- Search attractions in English; if the pin looks wrong, open our city page and copy the Chinese name into Maps.
- Use Transit mode for metro lines. Exit numbers matter in Beijing — follow the exit letter/number on the signage.
Amap (Gaode) on any phone
- Install Amap from the App Store / an APK from a trusted source if Play Store lacks it.
- Allow location; switch language toward English where the settings allow.
- For DiDi pickups, drop a pin in Amap, then match that spot in the DiDi app — hotel driveways are a common mismatch.
Maps ↔ ticket booking
Save offline maps and book hard tickets on Wi-Fi the night before release times (see release-times table). A dead map at the Meridian Gate is annoying; a missed 20:00 Forbidden City release is worse.
Based on how Apple Maps, Amap and Google behave for travellers in mainland China as of 2025–2026. Features change with app updates — test at your hotel before the first paid attraction day. Reviewed 9 Oct 2026.
FAQ
Does Google Maps work in China?
The app may open on roaming/eSIM data, but navigation, transit and many place details are wrong or missing inside mainland China. Do not rely on it as your only map.
Is there an English Amap?
Amap (Gaode Maps) has improved English labels in tourist cities. Search works better if you paste the Chinese name from our attraction pages (each page shows the Chinese name under the English title).
Apple Maps vs Amap?
On iPhone, Apple Maps is good for walking and transit in Beijing/Shanghai. Amap is stronger for complex driving pins, some bus lines and Chinese POI search. Many people keep both.
