3. Google Maps in China

Let's be honest about Google Maps in China - even if you get it working with a?VPN, it's not the map app you know and love from other countries. The data is seriously?outdated, with new buildings, roads, and sometimes entire neighborhoods missing or in the wrong spots. This isn't Google being sloppy; they just can't get the permits needed to update their maps in China.

The GPS can be off by hundreds of meters, and public transport info is years out of date. Sure, you might be tempted to use it just because it's familiar, but you're better off with Apple Maps, local apps like Baidu or Gaode, or even offline options like Organic Maps.

4. Apple Maps in China

Apple Maps works in China?without a VPN?(unlike Google Maps) because Apple follows Chinese regulations. For iPhone users, it's a decent option with a clean English interface and reliable basic navigation in major cities. The data is actually pretty accurate for main roads and popular spots since Apple partners with Gaode Maps in China.

But let's be real - it's?not as detailed as Chinese apps?like Baidu or Gaode. While you'll find major landmarks and shopping centers easily enough, it lacks real-time traffic updates, detailed public transport info, and those super helpful features like subway exit numbers that local apps offer. Plus, it's?iPhone-only, so Android users need to look elsewhere. Think of it as a good starter map while you're getting comfortable with Chinese apps, not your long-term navigation solution.

Best English Map Apps for China

For travelers who prefer English interfaces, here's your go-to combo: MetroMan handles subway navigation brilliantly - it's simple, shows every exit, and covers all major Chinese cities. For general navigation, both Organic Maps and Maps.me work offline (just download before your trip). While Maps.me shows more points of interest, Organic Maps offers a cleaner, ad-free experience since it's a privacy-focused fork of Maps.me.

5. Organic Maps - Offline Map

If you're worried about data usage or just want a simple offline map that actually works in China, Organic Maps might be your choice.

First off, it's?completely offline?once you download the maps - no more worrying about spotty data or?VPN?issues. The interface is?fully in English?(and tons of other languages), which is already a huge relief if you've been struggling with Chinese apps. The design is?clean?- honestly, it's refreshing after dealing with the feature-packed but overwhelming Chinese apps.

Here's what's cool about it: you can download detailed maps of major Chinese cities before your trip, and the navigation actually works well for?basic?getting around. Want to find the Forbidden City or your hotel? Easy. Need walking directions? Got you covered. The search function works in English, and tourist spots are clearly marked - no more copying and pasting Chinese characters!

But let's be real about the limitations. You won't get real-time traffic updates or live public transport info. No bus arrival times, no subway delays, nothing like that. Think of it more like a really good?digital version of a paper map. It's perfect for walking around tourist areas in Beijing or Shanghai, but if you need to figure out complex public transport routes, you'll want to pair it with something like Metroman. Check below!

• English Support: Full interface and search in English.
• Ease of Use: Clean design, ideal for basic navigation without real-time traffic.
• Best For: Offline use in major cities like Beijing or Shanghai.
• Limitations: Lacks real-time public transport updates

6. MetroMan - Subway Map

MetroMan is basically focused on?metro systems?across China (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.).. Unlike those overwhelming Chinese apps, this one's dead?simple and completely in English. Whether you're trying to get around Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or pretty much any major Chinese city, it's got you covered.

It's like having a subway expert in your pocket. Not only does it show you the?fastest route, but it also tells you?which exit to use?(super helpful in massive stations like People's Square in Shanghai), how long your trip will take, and even what's near each station. The interface is super clean - just tap where you want to go, and it figures out the rest.

The only catch is that it's?just for metros?- no buses, no walking directions to your final destination. That's why most travelers pair it with something like Organic Maps or Baidu Maps for the complete journey.

• English Support: Full English interface.
• Ease of Use: Simple and efficient for subway planning.
• Best For: Combining with other apps (e.g., Organic Maps) to locate attractions near stations.

7. Maps.me - No.2 Offline Map

Maps.me used to be the go-to offline map app, but lately it's gotten a bit bloated with ads and extra features. While it still works offline and has an English interface, many travelers have been switching to Organic Maps because it's cleaner, ad-free, and more focused on privacy. Both apps use OpenStreetMap data, but Organic Maps tends to get more frequent updates from the community.

The navigation basics are similar in both - you can download city maps, search in English, and find major tourist spots. But Organic Maps has a simpler, more modern interface and uses less phone storage. For China specifically, both will work offline for basic navigation, but neither has real-time transport info or traffic updates.

• English Support: Yes.
• Ease of Use: Intuitive but may lack detailed public transport info.
• Best For: Offline exploration in densely populated areas.