Stay Connected
SIM cards, WiFi, and using your phone in China
5 min read
Updated 2025-01
¥100-200
Tourist SIM Cost
7-30 days
Data Included
Widespread
WiFi Availability
4+
Essential Apps
SIM Cards
Your best option for reliable connectivity
China Mobile
- • Best coverage nationwide
- • Tourist packages available
- • Kiosks at airport arrivals
- • ¥100-200 for 7 days
China Unicom
- • Good urban coverage
- • Often cheaper than Mobile
- • eSIM options available
- • English customer service
Passport Required
You'll need to show your passport to buy a SIM card. This is a government requirement - no exceptions.
Internet Access in China
What you need to know
Blocked Services
Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, and many Western services are blocked in mainland China. Plan accordingly if you need access to these services.
Pro Tip
Download any apps, maps, or content you'll need before arriving in China. This includes offline maps and translation dictionaries.
Essential Apps
Download these before you arrive
Messaging, payments, everything
Alipay
Payments, accepts intl cards
DiDi
Ride-sharing with English UI
Gaode Maps
Navigation (高德地图)
Setting Up Alipay
1
Download Alipay
Available on iOS and Android app stores
2
Register with phone number
Use your international number
3
Link your credit card
Visa and Mastercard accepted
4
Verify identity
Passport photo may be required
WiFi Availability
Hotels
Free WiFi standard. Usually reliable and fast.
Cafes & Restaurants
Widely available. May need phone verification.
Public Spaces
Metro stations and malls often have free WiFi.
Pro Tip
Having mobile data is more convenient than relying on WiFi. Phone verification for public WiFi can be tricky with a foreign number.