## China's Internet: What You Need to Know
China has what's commonly called the "Great Firewall" - a system that blocks many foreign websites and apps. Don't worry though, with proper preparation you can stay connected.
What's Blocked in China?
Social Media: - Facebook - Instagram - Twitter/X - WhatsApp - Snapchat - Telegram - TikTok (international version)
Google Services: - Google Search - Gmail - Google Maps - Google Drive - YouTube - Google Play Store
Other Services: - Most international news sites - Wikipedia (partially) - Dropbox - Many VPN websites - Spotify
VPN: Your Essential Tool
What is a VPN? A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through servers outside China, allowing you to access blocked sites.
Best VPNs for China (2025)
Top Recommendations: 1. ExpressVPN - Most reliable, fast servers 2. Astrill - Very stable in China 3. NordVPN - Good balance of price/performance 4. Surfshark - Budget-friendly option
Critical VPN Tips: 1. **Download BEFORE you arrive** - VPN websites are blocked in China 2. **Install on ALL devices** - Phone, tablet, laptop 3. **Download multiple VPNs** - Backup in case one stops working 4. **Pay for a reputable service** - Free VPNs rarely work in China 5. **Use obfuscated servers** - These are designed to bypass blocks
Getting Connected: Your Options
Option 1: International Roaming - Expensive but convenient - Usually works immediately - May bypass some restrictions - Check with your carrier for China packages
Option 2: Chinese SIM Card **Best for longer stays:** - Buy at airport arrival hall - Need passport for registration - China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom - Affordable data packages available
Option 3: eSIM **Most convenient for tourists:** - Activate before or upon arrival - No physical card needed - Many include VPN access - Recommended: Airalo, Holafly, Nomad
Option 4: Pocket WiFi - Rent at airport - Share connection with multiple devices - Some include VPN - Return before departure
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Before Departure: 1. Purchase VPN subscription 2. Download VPN app on all devices 3. Test VPN works in your country 4. Download backup VPN 5. Buy eSIM or arrange SIM card 6. Download offline maps (Baidu Maps) 7. Set up WeChat account
Upon Arrival: 1. Turn off automatic app updates 2. Connect to airport WiFi 3. Test VPN connection 4. Activate SIM/eSIM if needed 5. Confirm all apps working
Local Alternatives
Since Google is blocked, use these Chinese equivalents:
| Blocked App | Chinese Alternative |
|---|---|
| Google Maps | Baidu Maps (百度地图) |
| Google Search | Baidu (百度) |
| WeChat (微信) | |
| Uber | Didi (滴滴) |
| Google Translate | Baidu Translate |
| Gmail | Use VPN or local email |
Money-Saving Tips
1. Free hotel WiFi - Most hotels offer it 2. Coffee shop WiFi - Starbucks, etc. have WiFi 3. Metro station WiFi - Available in major cities 4. Download offline content - Maps, translations, entertainment
Troubleshooting
VPN Not Connecting? - Try different servers (Hong Kong, Japan often work) - Switch protocols (try Lightway, WireGuard) - Use obfuscated/stealth mode - Restart device and try again - Try your backup VPN
Slow Internet? - VPN will always be slower than direct connection - Peak hours (evening) are slower - Try servers closer to China (Hong Kong, Japan) - Disconnect VPN when not needed
Legal Considerations
- Technically illegal for Chinese citizens to sell unauthorized VPNs
- Tourists using VPNs for personal use is generally tolerated
- Don't use VPN for anything illegal
- Be discreet about VPN usage
Recommended Setup for 2025
- eSIM from Airalo ($10-20)
- NordVPN ($3-4/month)
- Total: ~$15-25
- Chinese SIM with large data package
- ExpressVPN ($8-13/month)
- Pocket WiFi as backup
- Total: ~$50-60
- International roaming
- One reliable VPN
- Accept limited access
- Total: Varies by carrier
Final Checklist
- [ ] VPN downloaded on all devices
- [ ] VPN tested and working
- [ ] Backup VPN installed
- [ ] eSIM/SIM arranged
- [ ] WeChat account created
- [ ] Baidu Maps downloaded
- [ ] Important content saved offline
- [ ] Bank notified of China travel