02 — Before you fly
Internet & eSIM in China
网络
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and most Western apps are blocked on local networks. The cleanest fix is a travel eSIM installed before departure — it routes via Hong Kong, so everything on your phone keeps working, no VPN fiddling.
Quick checklist
- 01Buy a China eSIM before you fly and activate on landing.
- 02Download offline maps and translate packs while still at home.
- 03Hotel Wi-Fi works fine for local apps, but the firewall still applies.
Why your apps stop working
China's internet firewall blocks Google (including Maps and Gmail), WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X and many Western news sites. This applies to hotel Wi-Fi, local SIM cards and wired connections alike.
Two reliable workarounds exist: a travel eSIM that routes your data internationally, or a VPN installed before you arrive. VPN apps cannot be downloaded from Chinese app stores once you're inside, so whatever you choose — decide before departure.
eSIM vs VPN vs roaming
A travel eSIM is the lowest-friction option: install the profile at home, land, and everything works. Your home carrier's international roaming also bypasses the firewall, but it's usually far more expensive per GB.
VPNs work but add latency, occasionally get throttled, and need a paid subscription from a provider that still functions in China — these change often.
Setting up before departure
Install the eSIM profile on Wi-Fi at home, but leave it switched off until you land. Download offline maps for your first cities, a translate app with an offline Chinese pack, and your hotel's Chinese address.
Dual-SIM tip: keep your home SIM active for bank verification texts, and route all data through the travel eSIM.
Common pitfalls
- Airport and café Wi-Fi usually needs a Chinese phone number for SMS verification — useless if you just landed. Sort connectivity before departure.
- Some budget eSIMs route through mainland servers and still block Google. Check that yours routes internationally (via Hong Kong) before buying.
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