Amap (高德地图): The Professional's Choice for Navigation
Amap (known as Gāodé Dìtú in Chinese) is one of China's most dominant and widely used map applications. It is the gold standard for accurate, real-time local data, often more detailed than even Apple Maps.
While many travelers assume local apps are unusable due to a language barrier, Amap is the exception. It offers an excellent English-language version, making it fully accessible to international visitors.
How to Get the English Version
Simply download "Amap" from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. If your phone's system language is set to English, Amap will automatically switch to its English interface upon installation.
Why Use Amap?
Amap is the "power user" tool for navigation in China. You should use it when you need maximum accuracy and local features:
- Unmatched Data: It has the most comprehensive and up-to-the-minute database of roads, subway lines, shops, restaurants, and even the smallest local vendors.
- Integrated Ride-Hailing: This is a key feature. Amap integrates multiple ride-hailing services (including Didi Chuxing) into a single tab. You can compare prices from different companies and book a ride directly within the map.
- Hyper-Accurate Transit: It provides precise real-time bus and subway schedules, including which platform exit to take.
- Detailed Navigation: Amap excels at "last 50 meters" navigation, often providing walking routes inside shopping malls, train stations, and complex buildings to find a specific entrance or store.
Download the App
- For iOS (iPhone/iPad): Download on the App Store
- For Android: Get it on Google Play
Bottom Line: While Apple Maps is simple and effective, Amap is the definitive tool for anyone who wants the most accurate, feature-rich, and locally integrated navigation experience. Its English support makes it an indispensable app for the savvy traveler.
