Connecting to a cell phone in China: Exploring eSIMs, Wi-Fi, and Cellular Networks
Roaming the Land of the Red Dragons: A Digital Odyssey
Explore the allure of China, home to the Great Wall, delectable cuisine, breathtaking vistas, and futuristic cityscapes. But beware, navigating its virtual landscape can prove tricky. To safeguard their native tech ecosystem and filter information, the Chinese have raised their digital drawbridge. The Great Firewall, China's internet censorship and surveillance system, means many familiar apps and websites you'd normally use while traveling are unavailable.
If you're hankering for an unhindered digital experience, fear not. This guide will help you traverse China's online frontier with ease. Discover the roaming, eSIM, and Wi-Fi strategies to stay connected and make your journey unforgettable.
Does my phone work in China?
Yes, you can use your phone in China. The good news is roaming using your domestic plan grants you access to all the apps and websites unavailable on Chinese mobile networks (and typically blocked for those on local networks). The catch? Cost. Racking up roaming charges with providers like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile can burn a hole through your wallet. To avoid astronomical costs, opt for international roaming packages such as AT&T's International Day Pass or Verizon's TravelPass, priced around US$12 per day.
If your phone is unlocked, consider two other options: obtaining a local SIM card or loading up an international eSIM, like Saily or Airalo.
What mobile networks are available in China?
China boasts three major state-owned mobile networks: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. China Mobile and China Unicom both offer prepaid SIM cards for short-term visitors, complete with a variety of data packages and duration periods and offering speeds of 4G and 5G. Note that using a Chinese SIM necessitates purchasing a VPN to access many blocked apps and sites, including most Google and Meta-related platforms - Google Maps, Google search, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and the lot.
How can I get a local SIM card?
The best spot to grab a local SIM card is in the arrivals area of major international airports, such as Beijing Capital, Beijing Daxing, Shanghai Hongqiao, and Shanghai Pudong. There, you'll find dedicated areas staffed by English-speaking China Unicom and China Mobile employees. They'll lend a helping hand in installing and setting up the SIM and even assist you in getting set up on Alipay by tethering it to your credit card.
Local SIM cards do come with one major advantage: a Chinese phone number. Crucial, as many Chinese apps require a Chinese phone number for registration. Fortunately, both Alipay and WeChat permit use of an international phone number.
Is eSIM available in China and how does it work?
China's mobile networks only provide physical SIM cards for short-term visitors, and locally bought phones don't support eSIM. However, if you're using a phone not sourced in mainland China, you'll be able to get connected with eSIM services.
eSIMs offer several advantages over a physical SIM: you can buy it before setting off, it requires no passport, fingerprint, or address, doesn't need to replace your current SIM, allows you to use multiple carriers and phone numbers at once, and it's easy to add more data if you run out. Our recommended eSIM partner for China is Saily. Aside from offering a wide range of eSIM packages - starting from US$4.27 for 1GB for 7 days - Saily's eSIMs come equipped with enhanced security features, including the ability to change your virtual location, granting you access to blocked apps and sites.
Where can I find reliable Wi-Fi in China?
- The major international airports in China offer free Wi-Fi within the terminals. To log in, you'll usually need to register via phone SMS (international numbers are fine). Alternatively, head to an airport information desk, show your passport, and staff will hook you up.
- In major Chinese cities, cafés, mid-range restaurants, malls, hotels, museums, and tourist attractions typically offer Wi-Fi, though you may need a local Chinese phone number to log in.
- Keep in mind that when connecting to Wi-Fi in China, you'll need a VPN to access blocked sites and apps like Google Maps, Gmail, Instagram, TikTok, X, and messaging apps including Messenger, Telegram, and Signal.
How fast and reliable is the internet?
China's internet is supremely fast and reliable, with comprehensive 5G coverage, provided you're accessing solely Chinese websites and apps. You'll notice a deceleration in speed and reliability when using international sites and apps, particularly if a VPN is required.
Are there any internet restrictions or censorship laws?
Indeed. China has one of the world's most strictly controlled internet environments. Known as the Great Firewall, this censorship system blocks access to numerous foreign websites and platforms. Key points to remember:
- Legal Gray Area: Using a VPN to access foreign websites remains a questionable legal matter, especially for Chinese citizens.**
- Monitored Communication: Remember that your messages, transactions, and posts on native Chinese apps like WeChat or Alipay can be monitored.**
- Censor Sensitive Topics: Avoid discussing politically sensitive topics, criticizing the government, or sharing content that could be deemed inflammatory or controversial. Such actions may lead to account suspensions or lockdowns - potentially causing travel inconveniences.**
Can I stay connected at major tourist sites?
Yes, major tourist attractions in Beijing, including the Forbidden City and the National Museum of China, offer free public Wi-Fi. You'll find Wi-Fi at other spots too, like Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors, although more remote tourist sites and open-air attractions typically lack Wi-Fi access.
Will I encounter language barriers when getting connected?
You can expect language barriers if you need assistance with China Unicom or China Mobile for SIM issues. Your best bet is to sort out everything before leaving home (with an eSIM) or before leaving the airport (with a local SIM), where staff speak English and are accustomed to dealing with foreigners and settling foreign phones.
How much does it cost to stay connected in China?
China Mobile and China Unicom offer prepaid SIM card options for tourists, priced based on data, talk time, and validity periods.
Typically, prices start at ¥50-¥100 (approximately US$7-14) for a 7- to 15-day package that includes around 5GB to 10GB of data, and you can pay extra for additional data or extend the validity.
If you're planning to use international eSIMs, providers like Saily offer budget-friendly options. For instance, 1GB for 7 days may cost around US$3-5, while 5GB for 30 days is approximately US$10-20.
What local tech customs or etiquette should I be aware of?
In mainland China, it seems like everyone is always staring at their phones, young and old. Phones perform various crucial tasks in daily life, from texting and calling to managing finances and making purchases.
- WeChat and Alipay perform numerous functions, such as messaging, paying for goods and services, booking rides, ordering coffee, reserving tickets for museums and tourist spots, and much more.
- You'll find mobile power bank stations in cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores. To use these, you usually scan a QR code and pay a deposit and small fee via WeChat or Alipay.
- China uses a standard voltage of 220V and plug types A, C, and I, so a universal adapter is a wise investment.
How do I contact emergency services if needed?
In an emergency, use the following numbers:
- Police (all emergencies): 110
- Fire: 119
- Ambulance: 120
- National Tourism Service Hotline: 12301
- When using your phone in China, consider the high roaming charges with providers like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile. Instead, opt for international roaming packages to save money.
- China has three major mobile networks: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, which offer prepaid SIM cards for short-term visitors and varying data packages.
- The best place to get a local SIM card is in the arrivals area of major international airports, where you can find dedicated areas for China Unicom and China Mobile.
- If your phone is not sourced in mainland China, you can use eSIM services to access China's mobile networks. Our recommended eSIM partner for China is Saily, which offers budget-friendly options and enhanced security features.
