In mainland China, restrictions are particularly stringent, affecting how Google Maps functions and is accessed by users. So does Google Maps work in China? How to use Google Maps within China due to the specific geographic and political restrictions imposed by the Chinese government.
Google Maps is blocked in China, but…
International tech companies such as Google must adapt their services to comply with local laws and regulations, particularly in regions with strict controls over geographic data and national security concerns.
Partnership with AutoNavi
Since 2006, Google has been required to partner with AutoNavi, a Chinese digital map provider, to legally display map data within China. This partnership is crucial for navigating the restrictions imposed by the Great Firewall and local authorities, ensuring Google Maps’ compliance with Chinese regulations.
Coordinate systems
Google Maps in China utilizes the GCJ-02 coordinate system, mandated by the Chinese State Council. This system is offset from the WGS-84 system used globally.
The domain google.cn uses GCJ-02 for both street and satellite maps, ensuring compliance with Chinese regulations (now google.cn is not functional, there is only google.hk and can only be accessed via VPN). Conversely, google.com uses GCJ-02 for street maps and WGS-84 for satellite imagery, which results in the “China GPS shift problem,” causing misalignments between map types.
Coverage of Taiwan and South China Sea Islands
Google map also represents Taiwan and the South China Sea Islands as integral parts of China, in line with official Chinese policy.
How to access Google Maps in China
Using Google Maps in China can be challenging due to restrictions on Google services. However, there are several ways you might still access and use Google Maps while in China.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
- Using a VPN: The most common method to access Google Maps in China is through a VPN. Choosing the right VPN server is crucial for accessing Google Maps in China, as it allows you to route your internet connection through servers located outside of China, thereby bypassing local internet restrictions.
- Setup Before Arrival: It’s important to download and set up the VPN on your devices before arriving in China, as many VPN websites may be blocked once you’re there.
Alternative Map Apps
- Local Alternatives: Since Google Maps may not work reliably even with a VPN due to connectivity issues, consider using local alternatives like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps). These apps are in Chinese, but they are the most accurate and detailed for navigation in China.
- English-friendly Apps: Apps like Apple Maps work in China and are available in English, making them a good alternative for non-Chinese speakers. Other navigation apps, such as Maps.me, LingoMap (a map app for foreigners who cannot read Chinese to use in China. It is a translation of AMap). Those apps shows place, transit route, and street names in the original Chinese, Mandarin Pinyin, and English.
- WeChat also offer features and language options beneficial for travelers in China, including Didi, real-time location sharing within WeChat to meet up with friends.
Offline Google Maps
- Download Areas: Before you enter China, you can use Google Maps to download specific areas for offline use. This feature allows you to access maps and navigate without an internet connection. The Google Maps app in China faces issues like map distortion and partial translation of labels, making offline maps a valuable feature for navigating without relying on live data.
- Limitations: Keep in mind that while offline maps provide basic navigation and mapping, live traffic updates, and other online-only features won’t be available.
Data Roaming
- International SIM Cards: Using a SIM card from outside China that includes global roaming may allow you to access Google Maps. This can be expensive, so be sure to check the rates and conditions with your mobile provider.
- Portable Wi-Fi: Renting a portable Wi-Fi device that connects to international networks can also be a solution. This allows you to bypass local internet restrictions.
Using Maps on Websites
- Embedded Google Maps: Sometimes, Google Maps embedded in websites might still work because they use different access points. This is not always reliable but can be a workaround for quick lookups.
Due to the fluctuating nature of internet regulations in China, the effectiveness of each method may change over time. Always have a backup plan, such as a local map app or physical maps, especially if you are traveling to remote areas.