Maps in China in English: prepare your route

An address is your best backup

Save the Chinese name, street address and phone number of your hotel. A screenshot from the hotel’s own confirmation can be useful when you need to show a driver or ask for help. Add the nearest station and any instructions for the entrance.

Search by the name the destination uses

Similar English place names can refer to different locations. Use the Chinese name from the hotel or attraction’s own confirmation when possible. Match the street address, neighborhood and entrance, not only the map pin.

Large complexes may have more than one entrance. Save the meeting instructions from the actual booking. A map’s main entrance is not necessarily the guide’s meeting point.

A route is more than the line on the screen

Check the start and end points of the journey, how much walking is involved and whether it depends on a live transport service. Save the final approach to the hotel. If you travel by train, record the exact station name shown on the ticket.

A few phrases for the journey

Choose a map for your device

Apple publishes a country-by-country feature availability list for Maps. Check the features for China rather than assuming every feature works everywhere. Other map products can differ in language, sign-in and download options.

Before leaving, look up your first journey from your arrival point to your accommodation. Save the route and destination details separately so a missing connection does not erase the plan.

Make the first journey simple

1. Save your first hotel in English and Chinese.
2. Take screenshots of the destination and entrance.
3. Save a backup route and your booking reference.
4. Keep your phone charged and your data plan instructions accessible.

Your next step