How Tourists Can Access the Internet in China in 2025

Find the best ways for tourists to access the internet in China in 2025, including eSIMs, Wi-Fi, VPNs, and local SIM card options.

It is thrilling to travel to China, but it is difficult to stay connected. Many popular apps and websites are blocked, so finding the right esim for travel to China is very important for tourists.

Why Staying Connected in China Can Be Hard

Stay Connected in China with Teloka eSIM. Source - Freepik.com

When tourists visit China, one of the biggest surprises is the Great Firewall. This is the country's internet control system. It blocks many apps and websites that people in other parts of the world use every day.

• Google and Gmail don't work.

• Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are blocked.

• Even apps like YouTube, Twitter, and Snapchat can't be accessed directly.

• Free Wi-Fi is offered in hotels, airports, and cafes but requires a Chinese phone number to access it, which tourists usually do not have.

• International roaming using your home SIM card is possible, but the cost is extremely high and generally impractical for extended travel.

This can be stressful for a tourist. Picture arriving in Beijing or Shanghai and being unable to send messages to family members, get directions, or access your email. There are even travelers who try to use VPNs to circumvent restrictions, but few VPNs perform well in China or are slow and unpredictable. This is why it is so crucial to pick a good internet solution prior to departure.

Internet Access Options in China

It is essential to understand the various means through which you can remain connected before going to China. Most tourists consider a number of options, each with its pros and cons. Whereas some are free but restricted, others are more expensive but convenient and reliable. Awareness of these options will help you choose the ideal solution for your travel, so that you can stay online for maps, messaging, and social apps without concern. Here is a comparison of the main internet access options that travelers can use in China:

Internet Access Options for Tourists in China:

Why Choose Teloka eSIM?

If you're looking for a China eSIM, then Teloka is one of the best and most dependable solutions. Here's why so many tourists rely on it:

1. Quick Activation: No need for a plastic SIM here. Activate the eSIM ahead of your travel by scanning a QR code or by their app. Takes only a few minutes, and you're good to go even before you take your flight.

1. Flexible Plans: Options for 7, 15, or 30 days depending on how long you stay. You can choose data packages that fit light users (for browsing and messaging) or heavier users (for video calls and streaming).

1. Strong Network: The SIM card has links with China Telecom and China Mobile, which are the biggest operators in the country. So in most cities, you will have 4G speed of the Internet, and if you are in a small town, there will be lower speed connections to ensure you are not offline.

1. No eKYC Hassle: Local SIM cards require the physical presence of a passport during the verification process and long queues in stores, but this one is different; you only need to buy it online and activate it instantly without any paperwork or waiting.

1. Eco-Friendly: As it's not physical, it minimizes plastic use. It's a tiny step, but with tens of millions of travelers on the planet, it makes traveling more green.

1. Refund Option: If you don't actually use your eSIM (say, your trip is canceled), you can easily get a refund. That's a peace of mind for travelers who need flexibility.

1. 24/7 Support: Internet outages can occur at any time, particularly while abroad. With customer support available 24/7, you'll never be left without someone to assist you if an issue arises.

1. Secure Payments: In case you are booking your plan online, payments are always kept secure. Hence you do not have to worry about your security.

Teloka eSIM Plan Comparison

It is very important to find the right plan in order to not use up your data or spend money on the data that you do not need. Teloka offers wide range of eSIM plans for China that cater to different types of travelers. Whether you are going for a short weekend trip, a two-week vacation, or a month-long journey. You can choose a plan according to how much data you expect to use, from just browsing and chatting to watching videos and video calling. Here's a simple comparison of all the Teloka eSIM plans in 2025:

Teloka eSIM Plans for China (2025)

Device Compatibility & Activation

Not all phones have eSIM, so the first thing is to ensure your device is compatible. Here's a quick guide:

• Apple: iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and subsequent models.

• Samsung: Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, and subsequent models.

• Google Pixel: Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7, and subsequent models.

Steps to Activate:

1. Check Compatibility: Your device must support eSIM. You can locate eSIM settings in your device's settings menu under "Cellular" or "Mobile Data."

1. Buy a Plan: Go to the Teloka website, choose a plan that suits your travel duration and data requirements.

1. Receive QR Code: Once purchased, the QR code for your eSIM appears right on the Teloka website. No shipping or waiting is necessary.

1. Install Before Departure: Use the QR code on your phone to download an eSIM profile so that you will be ready immediately after your flight.

1. Turn on Data Roaming: Once you reach China, just enable data roaming. Your eSIM will be updated automatically with the local network.

1. Manage Multiple eSIMs: You might have several eSIMs on your phone. This is useful if you prefer your home SIM for calls and Teloka eSIM for data in China.

1. Check Settings for Best Use: Ensure that mobile data is the primary source for the eSIM, disable background app refresh for unused apps to conserve data, and keep an eye on your usage so you won't exhaust your data without warning.

Practical Tips for Tourists

Below are some additional tips that will help you have a smooth internet experience while on your trip:

• Install eSIM Before Travel: Do not wait until you land. Set it up at home so you can use maps, call hotels, or message family immediately after arrival.

• Turn on Roaming on Arrival: Once you reach China, just enable data roaming. Your eSIM will automatically connect to the local network without any extra steps.

• Choose Unlimited Plans if Needed: If you rely heavily on navigation apps, video calls, streaming, or social media, unlimited plans are better. They prevent sudden data depletion and additional fees.

• Keep a Dual-SIM Setup: Use your home SIM for calling and local eSIM for internet. This will ensure that both your family and local services are at your disposal without any mix-up.

Make Your China Trip Truly Connected

It is nice to travel in China, but it can be challenging to stay online as most apps and sites don't respond. The proper solution facilitates your journey. Teloka eSIM enables you to have instant access to the internet, use maps, talk to family, and watch videos, without any trouble. It is simple to install, functions on most devices, and even makes the environment better by minimizing plastic SIM cards.

For a hassle-free, low-cost, and easy way to stay connected throughout your China visit, go to Teloka eSIM plans at Teloka.com. You'll have your phone ready to use the minute you arrive, and your trip will be that much more enjoyable!

FAQs

Question. What is a Teloka eSIM?

Answer: Teloka eSIM is a virtual SIM you download to your phone via a QR code or an app. You don't require any physical SIM, and it is ready to use for the internet in China immediately.

Question. Can I use my home phone number with a Teloka eSIM?

Answer: No! For calls and texts, you will use your primary SIM, whereas the Teloka eSIM is for your data. This will help you stay connected on both numbers.

Question. Do I require a VPN to access Teloka eSIM in China?

Answer: No, with a Teloka eSIM, the use of a VPN is not required to have access to the web and the most wanted apps. It is a secure direct connection to the Chinese networks.

Question. Which phones are Teloka eSIM compatible?

Answer: The majority of recent phones support it, such as iPhone XS and newer, Samsung S20 and newer, Google Pixel 4 and newer, and several other recent eSIM-supported devices.