Xing TianFor years, navigating China as a non-Chinese speaker has been a daunting task. Many travellers have struggled with finding directions, deciphering street signs, and using public transportation without a reliable English-language map. But now, a solution has arrived. Amap, also known as Gaode, has launched China’s first English-language navigation app, making travel in the country easier and more accessible for international visitors.
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Also read: Top 20 Tourist Attractions in China You Must Visit
A much-needed solution for tourists
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China is a vast country with some of the most incredible travel destinations in the world. From the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing to the modern skyline of Shanghai and the breathtaking landscapes of Guilin, the country offers endless attractions. However, for years, foreign tourists faced significant challenges when trying to navigate Chinese cities.
Most Chinese map services, including Amap and Baidu Maps, have traditionally been available only in Chinese, making it difficult for non-Chinese speakers to use them effectively. While Google Maps is a popular alternative in many parts of the world, it lacks detailed and reliable data for China. Many Chinese stores and restaurants are not available on Google Maps, making it difficult for travellers to locate them. This has often left travellers relying on basic translations, offline maps, or costly tour guides to get around.
What the app offers
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The new English-language version of Amap is designed specifically to address these issues. The app provides:
- Turn-by-turn navigation in English, making it easy to follow directions while walking, driving, or using public transportation.
- English names and descriptions for attractions, restaurants, hotels, and other points of interest.
- Real-time traffic updates and public transportation information to help users find the best routes.
By offering these features, the app eliminates the language barrier that has long made independent travel in China difficult for foreigners.
Why now?
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The launch of the English-language Amap comes at a crucial time. China has been actively working to attract more international visitors, especially as global travel continues to rebound. In 2024, China saw a significant increase in foreign travellers, with 64.88 million international entries and exits—a rise of nearly 83% compared to the previous year.
To make travel even easier, China recently extended its visa-free transit policy, allowing travellers from certain countries to stay for up to 240 hours (10 days) without needing a visa. With more international tourists expected in the coming years, the need for an English-friendly navigation app became even more apparent.
Where to download the app
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The English version of Amap is now available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Travellers planning a trip to China can install the app before arrival to familiarize themselves with its features and ensure a smoother travel experience.
Also read: 12 Beautiful Locations in China That Will Blow You Away
With the launch of the English-language Amap, exploring China has never been easier for international visitors. No longer do travellers need to rely on guesswork, offline maps, or third-party assistance to get around. Whether you’re visiting for business, sightseeing, or adventure, navigating the country is now simpler and more convenient than ever before.
