How to Use the English Version of Amap/Gaode

Are you still worried about which navigation software to choose when travelling in China? Amap (Gaode map) is one of the most trusted navigation App for foreigners, providing English support, real-time traffic conditions and accurate navigation. In addition, it can help you easily cope with various travel scenarios, from finding popular restaurants to calling taxis, from checking subway lines to exploring Chinese attractions. Learn how to use the English version of Amap so that you can travel easily even if you don't understand Chinese.

Why Choose Amap for Your China Trip?

Amap is a navigation app commonly used by locals, with many practical functions that make travel more convenient:

✅ Real-time traffic conditions + traffic light countdown, intelligently avoid congested sections
🔀 Intelligently recommend the best transfer plan
🚖 One-click call for Didi and other online ride-hailing vehicles
🚲 Scan the code to unlock nearby shared bicycles
📍 Collect frequently used addresses and navigate with one click
💬 English voice navigation

Can I Use the English Version of Amap (Gaode Map)?

Amap does offer English support, but it's limited. You can switch the interface language to English in settings, but some places are displayed in both English and Chinese. You can search for places using English names or pinyin (for example, enter "Beijing Zoo" or "beijing dongwuyuan"), and there are also English voice prompts when navigating.

How to Download the English Version of Amap (Gaode Map)?

Download and install

• Search for "Amap" or "Gaode Map" in the App Store or Google Play.
• Download the official app and install it.

How to Change Amap (Gaode Map) to English?

• English version (Amap): After downloading, open the App → Language Setting: Select "Switch language" → 🔄 Check "English" → Restart the app to manually to apply change.
• Chinese version (Gaode Map): Click "Me" → ⚙ Settings → General → Language Settings → Select "English".

How to Sign Up and Log in to Amap(Gaode Map)?

Account login

Click Settings ⚙ → Log in.

Mobile phone number login
Only supports +86/+852/+853 numbers (mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau).

Recommended login method
✓ Alipay (most convenient payment).
✓ WeChat (strong versatility).
✓ Apple ID (preferred for iOS users).
Other optional methods: Google/Taobao/QQ/Weibo account login.

Permission settings
Be sure to enable location permissions (necessary for navigation).
It is recommended to enable notifications (real-time traffic reminders).

Done! You can now use the English version of Amap.

🔔 Tips: After logging in with Alipay/WeChat, you can directly use taxi-hailing, shared bikes, and other functions.

Introduction to the Functions of the Amap English Interface

Understand the meaning of the map icons on the main interface

10 functions and nearby services in the bottom navigation bar.

How to use Amap to Navigate in China?

Query route:
Enter the starting point and end point.
Select the "Bus & Metro" option and switch between driving, taxi, bus/subway, cycling or walking according to your needs and distance.

Real-time information:
Check the arrival time of subway/bus.
Get transfer suggestions.

Ticket purchase service:
Some cities support online ticket purchase.
Requires to bind Alipay/WeChat payment.

👇For inter-city transportation or long-distance routes, it is recommended to take the train, intercity train (C) or high-speed rail (G), which is faster.

How to Find Restaurants, Hotels and Attractions on Amap?

1. Using the Bottom Feature

Step 1: Open Amap and click "Food/Hotel/Scenic"at the bottom to find nearby places.

Step 2: Select a category:

🍜 Food (Restaurants & Cafes) ✔
🏨 Hotel (Accommodations) ✔
🎡 Scenic (Attractions & Landmarks ✔
🛍Mall (Shopping Centers)
🎠 Enjoy (Entertainment & Activities)

Step 3: Adjust the filters (distance, region, rating) to get better results.

Step 4: Tap a place to view details (address, photos, contact info).

Step 5: Read user reviews and check ratings.

How to Use Offline Maps and Save Favourite Locations in Amap?

The English version currently does not support offline maps, but the Chinese version can download offline maps.

📲 Downloading Offline Maps

Open Amap → Tap "Me" (Profile) → "Offline Maps"
Search for your city (e.g., "Beijing").
Download maps (Wi-Fi network is recommended).
Offline use: Basic navigation does not require data!
⚠️ Note: Real-time traffic & updates require internet.

⭐ Saving Favourite Locations

Search for a place (e.g., your hotel).
Tap the ★ (Star icon) to save.
Access later: Go to "Setting" → "Saved".

✔ Mark saved places (e.g., Attractions, Hotels, and Airports).
✔ Sync across devices when signed in.
✔ Directions: Tap "Navigate" (blue button) for walking/driving/public transport routes.
✔ Hotel booking: Some listings support direct booking (through Amap or associated apps, such as Trip.com).

Now you can explore China like a local!

Amap vs. Google Maps in China

Amap (Gaode Map) is one of the most reliable navigation apps for Chinese travellers, providing accurate real-time traffic conditions, detailed public transportation routes, and smooth online ride-hailing services - features that Google Maps cannot match due to China's restrictions. While Google Maps performs well globally, its functionality is limited within China without a VPN, making Amap a must-have tool for foreign travellers to get around easily.

Here is a brief comparison of the two apps:

China Travel Guide