Travelling in China 2024: List of Essential Maps

China, with its vast landscapes, bustling megacities, and rich cultural heritage, can be an exciting but daunting destination to navigate. Understanding and using the right maps and travel apps is crucial for any traveler wanting to explore this fascinating country. 

This guide covers essential China maps and travel apps, offering detailed information to ensure you're well-prepared for your travels. From paper maps to digital navigation tools, we've got everything you need to explore China with confidence.

Essential Maps for Travelers

Paper Maps

National Geographic Adventure Map

The National Geographic Adventure Map is detailed and durable, covering the entire country. It highlights major roads, cities, and points of interest, making it an excellent resource for planning your travels.

Beijing and Shanghai City Maps

City-specific maps for Beijing and Shanghai provide detailed layouts, including metro lines and major tourist attractions. These maps are particularly useful for navigating these buzzing metropolises.

Digital Maps and Recommended Apps

Baidu Maps

Baidu Maps is the most widely used map app in China, providing comprehensive coverage, including public transportation routes, traffic updates, and nearby attractions.

• Features: Real-time traffic updates, public transportation routes, walking directions, nearby attractions.
• Why You Need It: It’s more accurate than Google Maps in China and includes detailed public transit information.

Google Maps

Although not as detailed as Baidu Maps, Google Maps can still be useful for locating major landmarks and getting an overview of your surroundings.

• Features: GPS navigation, place search, offline maps.
• Why You Need It: Handy for quick directions and finding major landmarks, though its functionality is limited in China.

Learn more: Top 20 Must-Have Apps in China for Travelers

Recommended Navigation Apps

Several China travel apps can make navigating the country more manageable and enjoyable. Here are some top recommendations:

DiDi

DiDi is China’s equivalent to Uber and is essential for getting around cities quickly and conveniently.

• Features: Ride-hailing, fare estimates, ride-sharing options, English interface.
• Why You Need It: Essential for getting around cities conveniently and safely.

MetroMan

MetroMan is an indispensable app for navigating China’s extensive metro systems.

• Features: Detailed metro maps for major cities, route planning, fare calculation, offline access.
• Why You Need It: Simplifies using the metro systems in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

Tips for Using Public Transportation

China’s public transportation system is extensive and efficient, making it a great way to explore the country. Here are some tips for navigating it:

Metro Systems

Most major cities in China have well-developed metro systems that are easy to use to get around.

• Purchase a Transportation Card: Cards like the Beijing Transportation Smart Card or Shanghai Public Transportation Card can be used on metros, buses, and even taxis.
• Plan Your Route: Use apps like MetroMan or city-specific metro apps to plan your trips and check for the latest schedule updates.
• Avoid Peak Hours: Metro systems can get extremely crowded during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:30 PM), so plan your travel accordingly.

Buses

While buses cover more areas than metros, they can be more challenging to navigate due to language barriers.

• Use Bus Apps: Apps like Baidu Maps or city-specific bus apps can help you find bus routes and schedules.
• Have Small Change Ready: Many buses do not give change, so keep small denominations handy for fare payments.

Trains

China’s high-speed rail network connects major cities and is a convenient option for long-distance travel.

• Book Tickets in Advance: Use apps like Ctrip or China Railway’s official website to book tickets. Tickets sell out quickly, especially during holidays.
• Arrive Early: Train stations can be large and crowded, so arrive at least an hour before your departure time.

Map of Major Tourist Attractions

Having a map of major tourist attractions can help you plan your itinerary more efficiently. Here are some must-visit spots in China:

Beijing

• The Great Wall: Stretching over 13,000 miles, it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
• Forbidden City: This historic palace complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see in Beijing.
• Tiananmen Square: The world’s largest public square, surrounded by significant buildings and monuments.

Shanghai

• The Bund: A famous waterfront area offering stunning views of Shanghai’s skyline.
• Yu Garden: A classical Chinese garden with beautiful pavilions, ponds, and rockeries.
• Shanghai Tower: The tallest building in China, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Xi’an

• Terracotta Warriors: Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.
• City Wall: One of the best-preserved city walls in China, offering a unique perspective of Xi’an.

Chengdu

Guilin and Yangshuo

Additional Tips and Insights

Practical Advice

• Learn Basic Mandarin Phrases: Familiarize yourself with common phrases to help with communication.
• Download Useful Apps: Apps like WeChat and Baidu Maps are invaluable for navigation and staying connected.
• Carry Cash: Not all places accept international credit cards, so having cash is helpful.

We recommend planning your trip well in advance to secure the best deals on flights and accommodations. Guided tours can also provide deeper insights into China’s rich history and culture, enhancing your travel experience. For example, joining a food tour in Beijing or Shanghai can introduce you to the local cuisine in a more authentic way.

Navigating China can be an adventure in itself, but with the right maps and travel apps, you can make your journey smooth and enjoyable. From essential paper and digital maps to recommended navigation apps and public transportation tips, this guide provides all the tools you need for an unforgettable trip. Explore the best places to visit in China with confidence, knowing you're well-prepared to navigate this incredible country.

References

• China Map
• Top 20 Must-Have Apps for Travellers and Expats in China
• TravelChinaGuide Maps
• China Checkup Map Websites