Best eSIM for China: Google, WhatsApp and staying connected

How to pick an eSIM for China: why apps like Google and WhatsApp are blocked on local networks, what to check in a plan, how much data you need and how to set it up.

In mainland China, local networks block Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and many other apps. The best eSIM for China is one whose details explain how it connects, so you know which apps will work before you fly. Install it at home, where every app store and website still works, and turn it on when you land.

Why apps are blocked in China

China's internet rules block many foreign services on Chinese networks, including Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps, YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and X. Many travel eSIMs route data through networks outside mainland China, which changes what you can open. Plans differ, so read the plan's details before you buy. Our guide to the internet in China for tourists explains this in more detail.

Which network will you use?

China has three mobile networks: China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom. All three cover cities, high-speed rail lines and most tourist areas, with wide 5G. Each plan page shows the networks the plan connects to.

Apps to install before you go

WeChat and Alipay: used for almost every payment, from taxis to street food. Both accept foreign cards; set them up at home.

A maps app that works in China, such as Apple Maps or Amap. Google Maps is out of date in China even when it opens.

A translation app with offline Chinese downloaded.

Didi for taxis. It works in English inside Alipay or WeChat.

How much data do you need?

Light use (about 0.5 GB a day): maps, messaging, ride apps and some browsing.

Normal use (about 1 GB a day): the above plus social media, photo uploads and a few video calls.

Heavy use (2 GB or more a day): streaming, many video calls, or sharing your connection with a laptop.

A one-week trip with normal use needs about 7 GB. Payments and maps in China use data constantly, so do not go too small.

Local SIM or travel eSIM?

Chinese SIM cards require real-name registration with your passport, and you buy them at an operator's shop. A travel eSIM is bought and installed before you leave, with no registration counter on arrival.

How to set up your China eSIM

Buy your plan on ViraSIM and open the email or the My eSIMs page.

At home, on Wi-Fi, scan the QR code or tap the install button. It takes about two minutes.

Name the new line "China" and leave it off until you travel, if the plan's days start on first connection.

When you arrive, turn on the China line, choose it for mobile data and turn on data roaming for it.

Keep your home line on for calls and texts, with its data roaming off.

Hong Kong and Macau

Hong Kong and Macau have their own networks and do not block the apps above. If your trip includes them, check that your plan lists them, or look at an Asia eSIM.

Bottom line

Read how the plan connects, set up WeChat and Alipay at home, and install the eSIM before you fly. See all China eSIM plans, with prices updated live.

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