Baidu Map is one of the most popular navigation apps in China, but for international users, the biggest challenge is that Baidu Map does not have an English version. While the app is primarily designed for Chinese speakers, there are ways to make it easier to use if you don’t read Chinese.

Can I Change Baidu Map to English?

The short answer is no, Baidu Map does not support changing the app’s interface to English. The app is primarily in Chinese, and currently, there is no full English version available for download. Unlike apps such as Google Maps, Baidu Map’s language setting cannot be changed to English directly from the app’s settings.

However, there are a few workarounds that can help you navigate the app and get directions in English.

How to Use Baidu Map App in English: Workarounds

While you cannot change Baidu Map’s language setting to English, here are a few strategies to help you use the app more effectively:

1. Use Built-in Translation Features on Your Phone

Both iOS and Android devices come with translation tools that can be helpful when using Baidu Maps in Chinese. Here’s how:

• For iPhone users: You can use the built-in Live Text feature in iOS, which allows you to take a screenshot of Chinese text and translate it into English. Simply take a screenshot of the Chinese interface or location information and use the translation tool to understand it.
• For Android users: Google Lens is an excellent tool that allows you to take pictures of the text within Baidu Maps and get an instant translation. This is particularly helpful for menu items, place names, and navigation instructions.

2. Use Baidu Maps Alongside a Translation App

Another option is to use a separate translation app like Google Translate. Here’s how you can do it:

• Download and open Google Translate or another translation app of your choice.
• Enable the camera feature, which allows you to point your phone at Chinese text on Baidu Maps.
• The app will translate the Chinese characters into English in real time. This can help you understand route directions, street names, and landmarks.

3. Search in English and Chinese Place Names

Baidu Map recognizes many major international and local destinations, and you can often search for popular places by their English name. However, for smaller or local places, you might need to enter the name in Pinyin (the Romanized spelling of Chinese words).

For example:

• Search for “Beijing Capital International Airport” in English, and Baidu Maps will show the correct location.
• For local destinations, use Pinyin. If you want to find “renmin Square,” you could search for “renmin” and still get accurate results.

4. Use Google Maps for English Directions and Baidu Maps for Local Accuracy

A common strategy for non-Chinese speakers is to use Google Maps for getting English directions and Baidu Maps for more detailed or accurate local information. Google Maps may not always have the most up-to-date or precise data for some Chinese cities or towns, but it can still give you a general sense of direction in English. You can then cross-reference that with Baidu Map for real-time traffic data and specific points of interest.

5. Learn Key Chinese Navigation Terms

To make your experience easier, familiarize yourself with some basic Chinese navigation terms that frequently appear in Baidu Maps:

• 导航 (dǎoháng) – Navigation
• 路线 (lùxiàn) – Route
• 起点 (qǐdiǎn) – Starting point
• 终点 (zhōngdiǎn) – Destination
• 公交 (gōngjiāo) – Public transportation
• 步行 (bùxíng) – Walking
• 骑行 (qíxíng) – Bicycling
• 驾车 (jiàchē) – Driving

These terms will help you understand basic functions like route planning and navigation settings.

Is There an Alternative to Baidu Map in English?

While Baidu Map app cannot change its language to English, some international travelers opt to use other navigation tools that support English, such as Google Maps or Apple Maps, which provide some mapping coverage for China, though often not as detailed or accurate for local routes as Baidu Map.

For public transportation within cities, apps like Citymapper may offer better support for English speakers in large cities like Beijing and Shanghai. These apps often integrate with local transportation systems, making it easier for non-Chinese speakers to get around.

Conclusion

Though you cannot directly change the language in Baidu Map app to English, these tips and workarounds can help you navigate the app and find the information you need. Using built-in translation tools, searching for place names in Pinyin, and combining Baidu Maps with other English-language apps can enhance your experience in China. While it may require a little extra effort, with these methods, you can still enjoy the benefits of Baidu Map’s detailed and highly accurate local data.