A Foreigner's Guide to Amap: Navigating China Like a Local

The most accurate navigation app for China - step-by-step guide for foreigners

Navigation

Free App

10 min setup

Why Google Maps Fails in China (And Why Amap is Your Savior)

If you're planning to use Google Maps in China, you'll face two major challenges:

⚠️ Google Maps Problems in China

GPS location is consistently inaccurate with significant offset
Map data is outdated and missing new roads, buildings, and POIs
Limited functionality even with VPN
No real-time traffic or public transit updates
Poor integration with local services

✅ Why Amap is Your Best Choice

#1 navigation app in China with largest market share
Most accurate and up-to-date map data
Real-time traffic and public transit information
Seamless integration with local services
Works perfectly without VPN

Don't Worry About the Chinese Interface!

While Amap's interface is primarily in Chinese, don't let that intimidate you. This guide will show you exactly which buttons to tap and how to use the essential features. Once you learn a few core buttons, it's surprisingly simple to use. We'll walk you through everything step by step with clear visual instructions.

Amap accurate real-time traffic information

Getting Started with Amap

Step 1

📱 Download Amap

Download the official Amap app from your device's app store

How to Find:

Search for "Amap" in App Store or Google Play
Look for "AMap Global" with navigation category
Make sure it's the official app with millions of downloads

AMap Global app in App Store search results

Download Tips

The app icon is usually blue and green with a navigation arrow. Verify it's published by "AutoNavi Information Technology Co. Ltd."

Step 2

📍 Allow Location Access

When prompted, allow Amap to access your location for navigation

Location Permission:

Open Amap app for the first time
A popup will ask for location access
Tap "Allow" to enable location services
Choose "While Using App" for better privacy

Note: Location access is essential for navigation. You can always change this setting later in your device's Settings app.

Step 3

🌐 Set Language to English

Switch the app interface to English for easier navigation

How to Change Language:

Open Amap app
Tap "我的" or "未登陆" (Me) at the bottom right
Look for "设置" (Settings) - gear icon
Tap "通用" (General)
Find "语言设置" (Language Settings)
Select "English" from the list

Note: Some features may still appear in Chinese even with English settings. Don't worry - the core navigation functions work well in English.

Getting Your Route on Amap: A 3-Step Walkthrough

Using Amap to get from point A to point B is incredibly straightforward. The entire process can be broken down into three simple steps: entering your destination, choosing how you want to travel, and then following the directions. Let's walk through it.

Step 1

Enter Your Destination

Start by tapping the search bar located in the middle-lower part of the screen. This is where you'll tell Amap where you want to go.

Pro-Tip (The Best Way):

The most accurate method is to copy and paste the destination's name or address in Chinese (e.g., from Dianping or a contact).

After entering the address, a list of related locations will automatically appear below. Simply tap on your desired destination from the list to proceed.

Quick Access Tip:

Use the arrow button below the search bar for a quicker way to start navigation - it saves you one step compared to using the search bar.

Amap search interface showing search results for Shanghai Tower

Step 2

Choose Your Transportation Mode

After setting your destination, Amap presents you with your command center for getting around. At the top of the screen, you'll see a row of icons for different transportation modes:

Driving

For driving your own car.

Taxi

For ride-hailing services.

Public Transit

For subway and buses.

Cycling

For bike routes.

Walking

For walking routes.

Choose the mode that best suits your needs. Public transit and walking are the most commonly used options for visitors.

Step 3

Follow the Directions

Once you've selected your preferred transportation method, Amap will show you the route options. Choose the one that works best for you and tap "GO" to begin navigation.

What Youpos;ll See:

Boarding Station: Exact platform and entrance info
Exit Station: Which exit to use at your destination
Transfer Details: Platform numbers for connections
Live Timing: Real-time arrival information
Cost Estimate: Exact fare for your journey
Journey Time: Including walking and waiting time

Navigation Tip

For public transport, Amap shows detailed information including which station to board, where to transfer, and which exit to use at your destination.

Amap navigation interface showing route and directions

Using Amap Navigation

📡 Offline Maps (Backup Plan)

Download maps for offline use when you don't have internet connection

How to Download Offline Maps:

Go to Me → Offline Maps
Search for the city you're visiting
Tap Download next to the city name
Wait for download to complete (usually 50-200MB)
Maps will work without internet connection

Recommended: Download offline maps for your destination city before traveling, especially if you'll be in areas with poor internet coverage.

Common Issues & Solutions

❓ App is mostly in Chinese

Even with English settings, some features remain in Chinese

Solution: Learn key Chinese characters: 导航 (Navigate), 路线 (Route), 搜索 (Search), 我的 (Me). Use translation apps for complex menus.

❓ Can't find specific addresses

English addresses sometimes don't return results

Solution: Use landmarks nearby, copy-paste Chinese addresses, or search for well-known chains like "Starbucks" near your destination.

❓ Location Permission Issues

Location services not working or showing inaccurate position

Solution: Check these settings:

Enable device Location Services in Settings
Grant Amap "While Using" or "Always" permission
For better accuracy, enable "Precise Location"
Optional: Allow background location for real-time navigation

If concerned about privacy, you can set location permission to "While Using App" instead of "Always" and still get accurate navigation.

Quick Reference: Key Chinese Terms

Navigation Terms:

导航 (dǎoháng) = Navigate
路线 (lùxiàn) = Route
搜索 (sōusuǒ) = Search
目的地 (mùdìdì) = Destination
当前位置 (dāngqián wèizhì) = Current Location

Transportation Terms:

步行 (bùxíng) = Walking
地铁 (dìtiě) = Subway
公交 (gōngjiāo) = Bus
打车 (dǎchē) = Taxi
驾车 (jiàchē) = Driving

📚 Related Transportation Guides

🚇 Complete Transportation Guide for China 💳 Mobile Payment Setup (Essential for Transit)✈️ Beijing Airport DiDi Pickup Guide

🎉 You're Ready to Navigate China!

With Amap set up on your phone, you have access to the most accurate navigation in China. Remember to download offline maps for your destination and don't hesitate to use landmarks for easier navigation. Happy travels!