1. How to get online in china
notice：Once you decide to travel to China, sorting out your internet access should be your top priority. China is a highly digitalized country where almost everything—from transportation tickets and restaurant bookings to attraction entrance passes—can be handled conveniently via your mobile phone.
Check out these three internet options for your stay:
| Options | Core Pros | Core Cons | Recommended Scenarios |
| Foreign SIM (Int’l Roaming) | Keeps original number; Auto-activated; Unrestricted access to WhatsApp/Instagram | High cost; Some attraction bookings require Chinese number | Short trips; Need to keep original number connected; Prioritize overseas app access |
| eSIM | Cheaper than roaming; Full access to WhatsApp/Instagram | eSIM-only devices; No calls/SMS verification; Slightly slower internet | Mid-length trips; eSIM-compatible devices; No need for calls/verification codes |
| Chinese SIM Card | Calls/SMS verification available; Cost-effective; Fast 5G; Works with Chinese apps/attraction bookings | WhatsApp/Instagram blocked; Must buy in-person after arrival | Long stays; Need to use Chinese apps/book attractions; Require calls/SMS services |
2、eSIM Guide for expat
✈️If it’s your first time in China and you plan to use an eSIM, this post is for you.
Best for 5–15 day trips when you mainly need maps/chat/social and don’t need a China number or SMS.
Check: Mainland China coverage, tethering allowed, speed/cap policy, validity, refund if QR unused, APN info, and device support. Save it before you fly.
3、Chinese SIM card purchase options
| Short-term SIM Card | Long-term SIM Card | |
| Applicable Scenarios | Short-term travel or business trips (under 30 days). | Long-term stays (study, work, residency), frequent travelers to China, or users needing a Chinese number for long-term app usage. |
| Pros | 1. Quick purchase at airports: Available at airport agent counters with your passport, often with English-speaking assistance.2. No long-term contracts: Choose 7/15/30-day plans as needed. Automatically deactivates after expiration with no extra fees. | 1. Cost-effective: Monthly plans start at 30-100 RMB, with generous data and call allowances. |
| Cons | / | 1. Contract restrictions: May require prepaid balance or usage commitment periods.2. Management effort: Regular top-ups needed for long-term use; may require reactivation if service is suspended. |
| Price | (Varies slightly by city and vendor)1. 7-day card: 100 RMB (30GB data, 100 minutes of calls)2. 10-day card: 120 RMB (35GB data, 150 minutes of calls)3. 15-day card: 150 RMB (50GB data, 200 minutes of calls)4. 30-day card: 250 RMB (80GB data, 300 minutes of calls) | 30-100 RMB/month |