eSIM, Data & Internet Access in China: The Basics
Many foreign sites and apps (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, some news sites) are not accessible on normal mainland Chinese networks.
Your options
- Home roaming or a travel eSIM: data usually routes through a foreign network, so most international apps keep working. Check your phone supports eSIM and buy the plan before you fly.
- Local SIM (China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom): buy at an airport or official store with your passport; cheapest for long stays, but foreign sites will be blocked.
- Hotel Wi-Fi: same restrictions as local networks.
Using unauthorized VPN services is restricted under Chinese law; we do not recommend specific VPNs. Plan with roaming/eSIM and download offline maps and documents.
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