Travel maps that work with google maps?

February 13, 2015 12:25 AM

I am traveling to Tokyo . Wondering if there is any app or easy way to create maps of fun places to go and see and then create nice walking routes. While google can of course show you a walking route, chances are one street over is a mch more interesting historical road or the like it I make myself clear.
posted by dougiedd to Travel & Transportation around Tokyo, Japan (1 answer total)

I do this when I travel (I was actually in Tokyo last week). I use Google Maps Engine (https://mapsengine.google.com/map) to build maps of anywhere I want to travel. I used to use Google Maps, but Google has been forcing people to upgrade to their Maps Engine, which has its advantages even though it loses some of the best GMaps features. I usually add placemarks for restaurants, shops, museums, etc, but you can also add lines if you want to highlight particular streets or walking routes.

If you have an Android device, you should be able to access custom Google maps natively. On iOS, I use an app called "new My Maps". Note that this will require access to WiFi - fortunately in Japan there are lots of companies who can provide you with a mobile wireless device with unlimited fast wifi for about $5 a day.

You may also be interested in the "Time Out Tokyo" mobile app - they have a series of articles of "100 Things to Do In [Neighborhood Name]" which you can access online. Their app has the option to purchase each article and associated map for $1.99 each - BUT if you pick up a physical copy of any guide when you get to Tokyo, you can scan the cover into the app and get the map for free.

Feel free to MeMail me if you have any other questions - I'm pretty obsessive about trip planning and love Tokyo so would be happy to provide other info.
posted by Gortuk at 5:53 AM on February 13, 2015