Amap, a leading Chinese digital map provider, has launched the first English-language version of its popular navigation app, aiming to facilitate travel for the growing number of international tourists visiting China.
The app, available globally on both App Store and Google Play, provides a localized experience with English names and descriptions for attractions, eateries, accommodations and other key locations.
The initiative addresses the navigation challenges previously faced by foreign visitors due to language barriers and a lack of tailored services.
The app retains Amap's comprehensive features, including its detailed lane-level navigation and traffic light countdowns, ensuring a user-friendly experience for navigating China's complex roads.
The launch coincides with a significant surge in inbound tourism to China. According to the National Immigration Administration, 64.88 million international travelers entered and exited China in 2024, reflecting an 82.9 percent year-on-year increase.
The "China Travel" boom is attributed to factors such as the extension of visa-free transit stays and the implementation of more efficient immigration and travel services.
A must-have app in China
I’m a big fan of this app. Was actually introduced to it because one of my favorite actors (Wang hedi) is their sponsor. I’m visiting China for the first time in 7 years and having this app is absolutely life changing going around. I’m able to find recommended sites, restaurants, order taxis, and even got tickets to the movie for a much cheaper value. I wish something like this existed in the States. Also love using the friends and family tracker. Honestly this is THE must have app in China. I will be recommending this to everyone who plans on traveling to China anytime soon or in the future.
Don’t get lost in China
The app is constantly innovating with different techniques to make it easier to navigate. And it also has tips for bikers, mopeds, driving cars, trucks (I never tried that!) and walking.
Unfortunately it follows the concept of Chinese UI that they interfere usability with novelty. It would be a pleasure to avoid having splash screens and a decluttered interface. But so far it’s the best in China by far.