I follow my nose whenever I travel in China. But sometimes I get really lost and rely on a China maps app.
Don’t be an idiot like me – embrace the technology and learn to use a China map app before you leave your country.
You’ll have a much more pleasant time traveling, and you won’t waste time walking around in circles!
Here’s my list of the best map apps that work in China in 2025, starting with the ones in English.
1. Apple Maps
Apple Maps works in China. Image by Pexels.
- Available: Apple App Store
- English: Yes
- Chinese name: 苹果地图 (Píngguǒ Dìtú)
Got an iPhone? Then use Apple Maps when you’re in China.
It’s by far the best for foreigners as the maps data is supplied by a Chinese company. This means it’s relatively accurate.
If you’re in a taxi (or a DiDi – China’s version of Uber), the app can factor in real‑time traffic data. This includes the current speed limit, so you’ll know exactly how long until you arrive.
And, with Apple’s Indoor Maps, you can get detailed directions inside major Chinese airports including Shanghai and Guangzhou. It’s pretty cool.
See also: Shanghai travel guide
2. Google Maps
Chinese Google Maps works in touristy areas like Beijing. Image by TY Lim on Shutterstock.
Everybody knows and loves Google Maps.
But due to restrictions on geographic data in China, Google doesn’t have access to local mapping software and relies on satellite imagery instead.
This means Google Maps can be inaccurate. I use it for things like simple directions and tourist attractions rather than up-to-date business locations or transport.
What’s good about Google Maps in China is it often shows both English and Chinese together on maps. Trust me, when you get lost, this is a blessing!
I need to point out that Google Maps and most other major foreign apps and social media sites (like Facebook and Instagram) are blocked in China when you use Wi-Fi. This is known as The Great Firewall of China.
The solution? You need to get a virtual private network (VPN) app on your phone.
I’ve highlighted the ones that work in China here to help you make a decision. Otherwise, tap on the button below for the one that is the most reliable in China right now:
Just make sure you download the VPN app before you arrive in China, otherwise you’ll be stuck.
See also: Beijing travel guide
3. MAPS.ME
MAPS.ME is a map app that works in China. Image by Sebastian Hietsch on Unsplash.
With over 140 million downloads, MAPS.ME is an insanely popular map app and a good alternative to Google Maps in China.
This is because the maps are available offline for free, and MAPS.ME isn’t blocked in China. So, you can find your way around without using the internet.
However, you’ll need to download the maps of the cities you’re going to before you leave your country, otherwise you’re going to have to do this in your hotel when you arrive. This can be time-consuming depending on the Wi-Fi connection, or costly if you use your own data.
Just be mindful that MAPS.ME is open-source software, so anyone can contribute to its development. This means that maps are often not very accurate (that’s been my experience, anyway).
I’ve also found it hard matching up the English in the app with some of the physical buildings and landmarks which are named in Mandarin. But hey, it’s free!
It’s worth pointing out that private mapping activities are banned in China. So, while you’re allowed to use this app in China, just don’t contribute to the actual building of it while you’re in the country.
4. Baidu Maps
Baidu is the red app on the far right. Image by Tada Images on Shutterstock.
Baidu-what? If you haven’t heard of Baidu before, it’s China’s equivalent of Google.
It’s the search engine that the locals use. And, like Google, they’ve got their own Maps app.
Baidu Maps has some pretty cool features like street view, 3D city maps and checking public transport times. You can also download maps before you arrive at your destination and then access them offline.
But, unless you can understand Chinese characters, Baidu Maps probably isn’t for you.
5. Amap
Chinese people are addicted to their mobile phones. Image by StreetVJ on Shutterstock.
- Available: App and website
- English: No
- Chinese name: 高德地图 (Gāodé Dìtú)
Amap, pronounced Gaode in Chinese, is owned by Alibaba which is one the country’s biggest tech firms.
It provides China mapping data to Apple. So you know it’s a big player in the China map app space.
Amap is hugely popular in China, and you’ll appreciate using this mobile app for the user-friendly interface. In my opinion, it’s a bit less overwhelming than Baidu.
But like Baidu, you need to be able to read Chinese to use this app.
6. Tencent Maps
Tencent is a leading Chinese map provider. Image by Katjen on Shutterstock.
Tencent owns some of the most popular apps in China including WeChat, QQ and Tencent Video (China’s YouTube equivalent).
It’s no surprise then that Tencent wants a piece of the maps pie in China.
In February 2020, Tencent Maps (along with WeChat) raised eyebrows by launching a special map that identified residential communities infected by COVID-19.
Like Baidu and Amap, you’ll need to be a Chinese language whiz to use this one.
What about Bing Maps?
Bing is your last resort in China. Image by Mindea on Shutterstock.
Bing doesn’t have a map app.
But you can use their website map instead. Luckily, it’s not blocked in China and it’s OK for emergencies.
You have to be careful with Bing as it may automatically select the language based on your location, meaning everything will appear in Chinese.
If you don’t know how to change this, choose an English-speaking server location (e.g. United States) while using your VPN, and you won’t have this issue.
But if you’re using a VPN, you’d be much better off using Google Maps than Bing for accuracy reasons. Bing is pretty hopeless in China, from my experience.
What about LingoMap?
This dedicated China map app used to be a great option for foreign tourists.
However, the creator of LingoMap has advised me it’s no longer updated and can only be downloaded on older devices.
What about what3words?
what3words uses three unique words to pinpoint a specific 3m x 3m area anywhere in the world.
As the entire what3words grid is fixed, the three-word address for a particular location will never change even if buildings or streets change.
I haven’t used this app yet, but I might give it a go next time I’m in China. It’s not blocked there.
In fact, the what3words technology has been adopted by Mercedes-Benz in China. The app has its own Mandarin version (called 三词地址) among other languages.
Other China map websites
There are other map sites available in Chinese. Image by Nothing Ahead on Pexels.
You don’t need the latest apps on your phone to navigate your way around China.
So long as you can read Chinese, these map providers all do the job:
OSM is like MAPS.ME – it’s an open-source map that you can view offline.
The downside of OSM is that local maps are displayed in the language of the country you’re in. So in China, all the streets are shown in Chinese characters.
However, you can still type a location in English and the map works. A few businesses, particularly in the more cosmopolitan areas like Shanghai, have their English name on the map too.
Will using a map app in China eat up my data?
Check your data limits with your phone company. Image by Pexels.
Using your hotel’s Wi-Fi won’t use any data. But if you turn on international roaming on your phone, you will start to use data very quickly.
I’ve previously activated international roaming with Vodafone for an extra AUD$5 a day (US$3.50). This got me unlimited data, and is a good idea for a short trip.
Your rate may be totally different. So, before you go to China, chat to your phone company to find out what your options are for international roaming.
I’d say the best option is to get a China eSIM before you fly out.
It includes a data pack – the cost depends on how much data you want. However, as you will be using a Chinese phone network, you’ll still need a VPN to access all the major foreign websites and apps.
If you don’t want to use any data while you’re in China, you’ll need to rely on an app like MAPS.ME.
Just download the maps before you arrive, and don’t expect great accuracy.
Tips for using map apps in China
A street sign in China with characters and pinyin. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.
Here’s my advice on getting the best experience with your map apps in China.
1. Use Google Maps for Chinese street signs
Although you’ll see some English in the major tourist areas, you’ll only find Chinese characters and maybe pinyin (the Romanized spelling of Mandarin) on China’s street signs.
And that’s if there are any street signs at all!
Using Google Maps, which has English and Mandarin, you can try to match the street sign with what’s showing on your app.
2. Use a domestic app for street view
Only the domestic map apps and websites offer street view in mainland China.
So, you would need to use Baidu Maps, Amap or Tencent Maps for this feature.
3. Download apps before you leave home
If there are any apps you think you’ll need in China, it’s best to download them before you leave.
For instance, Google Play is blocked in China. If you get a VPN though, you’ll be able to use Google Play.
4. Use offline maps
Downloading maps on the go will chew up your data quickly, and could end up costing you a small fortune. Download offline maps of the areas you’ll be exploring before you head to China.
Just note that you won’t get the full map experience, i.e. many features will be lost.
5. Don’t rely on 100% accuracy
The Chinese government has a big say when it comes to technology in China. And Chinese navigation apps are no exception.
For example, if you’re using Apple Maps – which relies on Chinese mapping company AutoNavi – you may not be able to find your nearest H&M store.
It’s missing due to a government boycott of certain Western brands regarding the situation in Xinjiang province.
What if I get lost in China?
Tourist areas like Beijing’s hutongs are hard to get lost in. Image by Lapas77 on Shutterstock.
Rest assured China is safe, and the people are generally friendly and will help if they can.
If you get lost in China, you can always rely on a translation app like Google Translate. It may not give you a perfect translation, but the locals will still get the gist!
Just show them the translation on your phone rather than try to pronounce the words yourself.
See also: How to learn basic Mandarin
So what is the best map app for China?
If you can understand Chinese characters, Baidu and Amap reign supreme.
But if you can’t read Chinese characters, you’ll need to use MAPS.ME, Apple Maps or Google Maps.
MAPS.ME is a good option because it has offline maps, and it’s not blocked in China. This means you won’t need to spend a cent on internet data.
However, it’s built using open-source software so the maps are far from perfect in my experience, and the maps can take ages to download in China.
If you have an iPhone, using Apple Maps is your best bet. The app works in China, and the maps are based on Alibaba’s cutting-edge technology.
Otherwise, if you have an Android phone, use Google Maps. Even though it’s not entirely accurate, you’ll be able to get by as long as you download a VPN app before you arrive (because Google is blocked in China).
You can read my review for the best China VPN here.
Alternatively, go straight to the one I recommend most:
Most of the other VPNs simply don’t work in China anymore.
My last piece of advice
No matter where you’re going in China, make sure you have the address in Chinese characters, not just English.
If you lose your way, you can simply show it to a taxi driver, and you’ll be taken to the right place.
Best of luck traveling – you’re going to have a blast!
I hope I’ve helped with your China map app needs. Leave a comment if you have any questions or suggestions. If you’re looking for the best overall apps for foreigners to use in China, check out my blog here. I think you’ll like it.
Main image credit: Firmbee on Pixabay.
FAQ about the best China map app
Does Apple Maps work in China?
Yes, it does.
Is there a Chinese map app in English?
No, so you’ll need to use something like Google Maps, Apple Maps or MAPS.ME.
Does China have Google Maps?
No, it’s blocked in China unless you have a VPN.
What’s a Google Maps China alternative?
Try MAPS.ME (though there are fewer features) or if you can read Chinese, use Amap or Baidu Maps.
