HERE Maps API
Nov 5,2025

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Introduction

HERE Maps API is a suite of mapping and location-based service APIs provided by Germany-based HERE Technologies. Widely used in web applications, mobile apps, and enterprise systems, it primarily provides functionality such as map display, route navigation, location search, geocoding, and traffic information. With its high-precision map data and real-time traffic information, it has been widely adopted in the automotive industry, logistics, smart city development, and other fields.

File Structure

The HERE Maps API supports the following data transfer formats:

1. GeoJSON

For spatial visualization and interaction with vector data, it uses a JSON structure to represent the location and attributes of geographic features.

2. JSON (standard format)

API responses primarily use the JSON format, which is clearly structured and easy for developers to work with.

3. XML

Some older API versions or configuration items also support the XML format.

4. KML/GPX

Commonly used for importing and exporting route data or location information.

5. Image formats (PNG, JPEG, SVG)

For displaying static maps or rendered layers.

Pros

High-precision and detailed map data: It encompasses a wealth of information including global road networks, Points of Interest (POIs), and building details.
Real-time traffic information: It can reflect traffic conditions such as congestion, accidents, and road closures, and provide real-time route planning.
Versatile and flexible API combinations:It supports a variety of functions such as map display, route search, forward/reverse geocoding, and map matching, making it applicable to a wide range of scenarios.
Offline mode support: Some SDKs support offline map functionality, enabling use in environments without network connectivity.
Highly compatible with the automotive industry: It offers High-Definition Maps (HD Map) for autonomous driving and navigation, widely adopted by automobile manufacturers.

Cons

The free quota is limited: charges apply after exceeding a certain number of requests, and commercial use is costly.
The documentation is complex: The numerous features make it difficult for beginners to master.
The accuracy of Japanese maps is sometimes lacking: In some areas of Japan, the map may not be as detailed as that provided by local Japanese map APIs (such as ZENRIN and MapFan).

Application Scenario

The HERE Maps API is widely used across multiple industries. For example, in the logistics and delivery industries, it is used for truck route optimization and real-time location tracking, integrating traffic flow and congestion conditions for efficient route planning. In urban development, it is used to analyze and visualize road infrastructure and public transportation information. In the automotive industry, HERE provides the base maps required for navigation systems and the high-precision maps needed for ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which are highly integrated with autonomous driving technology. Furthermore, in the retail industry, HERE is also used for functions such as store search based on the user's current location and visualization of delivery ranges.