Gaode Maps Guide for Mainland Travel: Navigation, Ride-Hailing, and Subway Tips – A No-Getting-Lost Handbook for Hong Kongers

Many Hong Kongers still use Google Maps when heading north to the mainland, only to end up with inaccurate positioning, wrong routes, and trouble finding mall entrances — but in mainland China, Amap (Gaode Maps) is the real local expert.

Why use Amap instead of Google Maps when heading north?

• Most accurate positioning: Amap has the most complete map data in mainland China, with new malls and roads updated instantly
• Excellent public transport support: Shenzhen Metro, bus real-time schedules, and exit locations are all clearly displayed
• Built-in ride-hailing: You can book a ride directly in Amap (connecting to multiple taxi platforms) without installing another app
• Comprehensive search: Restaurants, malls, clinics, attractions — even opening hours and reviews are available

Setup guide

1. Download the "Amap" app (available on the Hong Kong App Store too), and register with your Hong Kong phone number
2. Enable location permissions, and the home screen will automatically show your current location
3. Search for your destination (e.g. "Luohu Port"), then tap "Directions" or "Navigation"

A closer look at useful features

🚇 Taking the Metro / Bus

1. Search for your destination → tap "Directions" → select "Transit" (i.e. public transport)
2. Amap will tell you which line to take, which exit to use, and how often the service runs
3. Supports Shenzhen Metro ride codes (in some cities you can scan to enter the gates directly)

🚕 Ride-hailing (works even without installing Didi)

1. Search for your destination → tap "Ride" → choose your vehicle type (Express / Premier / Taxi)
2. Confirm your pickup point and wait for the driver to accept your order
3. After arrival, pay via WeChat / Alipay, or link a payment method for automatic deduction

🍜 Finding food / Finding malls

• Search "Shenzhen hotpot" on the home screen, or simply search the mall name — distance, reviews, and opening hours will be displayed
• You can also check for group-buying deals (partially integrated with Meituan)

Tips for Hong Kongers

• Amap can find results even with traditional Chinese searches (e.g. typing "罗湖口岸" or simplified Chinese both work, but simplified Chinese gives more accurate results)
• Confirm your pickup point before booking a ride — mainland drivers will generally call you, so knowing some Mandarin will make things much smoother
• To save battery, download offline maps — you can download the Shenzhen area in advance
• Amap has a "Family Guardian" feature — when travelling north alone, you can share your trip with family members

Have your own car? Check out the Didi ride-hailing guide; want to take the high-speed rail to cities around Shenzhen? Learn the 12306 ticket-booking guide too.