Internet Access: eSIM & VPNs | Two Weeks in China

The Core Challenge: The Great Firewall

China's 'Great Firewall' blocks access to Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and many other Western services. Securing reliable internet access is your #1 survival priority upon arrival.

eSIM (Highly Recommended)

The most stable and hassle-free solution for travelers.

Advantages:

Data routed via HK/Singapore, bypassing the GFW automatically.
No VPN configuration required.
Works immediately upon landing.

Recommended Providers: Airalo, Nomad, Holafly, MobiMatter

Set this up on your phone before you board your flight.

VPN + Local SIM

Traditional method, but becoming less reliable.

Drawbacks:

Requires purchasing a local Chinese SIM (China Unicom/Mobile).
VPNs are actively blocked during sensitive periods.
Connections can be unstable and drain battery life.

Not recommended for short trips (e.g. 10-day visa-free transit).

The Public Wi-Fi Trap

Airport and public Wi-Fi networks usually require SMS Verification to log in. If you don't have a working roaming number or local SIM yet, you will be unable to connect, leading to 'digital isolation' immediately after landing.