China: Getting Around (4)

In this last part (so far) of the Getting Around in China mini-series I'd like to share tips on personal mapping and navigation software. Actually this is a one big tip.

The Gauda / Amap mobile application.

In different markets (app stores) it goes by different names, so search the app store for either Gauda or Amap. This is the go-to replacement for Google Maps or Apple Maps. While both Google and Apple work to some extent in China, their functionality is severely limited. They will not find you any public transport options and even basic driving / walking functions are limited. Also in several interesting areas Amap offers very interesting options not available in any app in the Western hemisphere.

Driving in underground garages. I still need to explore the technical side of this, but the long story short is Amap can navigate in underground garage structures. Clearly no satellite reception there, so I suspect Bluetooth beacons may be at play. Nevertheless you will appreciate the green path marking arrow when looking for the way out.

Traffic lights countdown. It looks like traffic lights in China are managed by some sort of a centralized system. This is probably to enable the so-called green wave for emergency vehicles, if needed. The system must provide a public API that allows the mapping / navigation application display the status of the lights in real time. Nice countdown timers are shown in the app, very helpful when waiting for the lights to change.

More shade. This has been a surprise. Parts of China get hot, especially in Summer. They can also be very humid, so even a short walk makes a difference if your pathway is shaded or fully exposed to sunlight like a frying pan. In the app, when you select walking, it will offer paths with more shade. A really nice touch. And makes me curious what kid of data behind they use to calculate that.

Long story short, download Amap, it will help you immensely, whether you drive or use public transport or walk.