eSIM for China
Plans from $2.24 per day
China
China plans connect via China Mobile and China Unicom partner roaming, with excellent 5G across the tier-1 cities of Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou and broad 4G nationwide.
The decisive reason to use an eSIM in China is the Great Firewall: foreign-carrier-routed data typically lets you keep using Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube — services that local SIMs block. Critically, install and activate the eSIM before you cross the border, because if it isn't active on arrival the blocked services can prevent you from completing setup inside the country.
Local SIMs also demand in-person passport registration and a Chinese phone number, impractical for most visitors. If your itinerary includes Hong Kong or Macau, check whether your plan covers them separately. Hotspot is supported for sharing access with a laptop or travel companion.
When to activate
Activate before arrivalSTRONGLY recommended to install AND activate the eSIM before entering China. Foreign-carrier-routed eSIMs typically bypass the Great Firewall (you can access Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, etc.), but if the eSIM doesn't activate before crossing the border you may struggle to do it after arrival when those services are blocked.
Things to know about China
- Foreign-routed eSIMs typically bypass the Great Firewall, restoring access to Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube during your visit.
- Activate the eSIM BEFORE entering China — once inside, blocked services may prevent the activation flow from completing.
- Some eSIM plans cover Hong Kong and Macau separately — verify your plan if your itinerary includes these.
Network partners
China Mobile
China Unicom (partner roaming)
Connection details
Networks
China Mobile · China Unicom (partner roaming)
Speed
5G / 4G / LTE
Hotspot
Allowed
From
$2.24/day
Country context
Currency
CNY
Emergency
110 (police) · 120 (medical)
Plug type
A / C / I
Time zone
CST (UTC+8)
Why eSIM here, not a local SIM
Chinese SIMs require passport registration in person AND a Chinese phone number to set up — and once active, they route through the Great Firewall (no Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.).
Free Wi-Fi: Common. Foreign-routed eSIM data is the easiest way to retain access to Western services during your visit. 5G is excellent in tier-1 cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou).
From order to online in 4 steps
Step 1
Buy your plan
Pick a data plan that fits your trip, pay with card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Common questions about China
Will WhatsApp, Google, and Instagram work in China?
Yes, foreign-routed eSIMs like ours typically bypass the Great Firewall, restoring access to Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and other Western services during your visit. Install AND activate the eSIM BEFORE crossing the border, since blocked services may prevent activation after.
Do I need a VPN with an Esim70 China plan?
Usually no, the eSIM's traffic routes outside China through partner carriers, so it isn't subject to the same blocks as a local Chinese SIM. A VPN remains optional for extra privacy.
When does my plan's validity start in China?
Validity starts when your eSIM first connects to a local China network, that's usually as soon as you land and switch off airplane mode. Installing the eSIM at home days before your trip doesn't burn any days.
Can I use my phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot in China?
Yes, all Esim70 plans support tethering by default with no separate daily cap. Your phone can share its data connection with a laptop, tablet, or travel companion's phone.
Will my home number still work in China?
Yes, modern phones support dual-SIM. Your home SIM stays active for calls and SMS while the Esim70 eSIM handles data abroad. You can keep WhatsApp / iMessage tied to your home number too.
