If I go to China, can I use Youtube and Instagram?”
Do you want to use the Internet in China, but don't know which service to choose?
It is true that the local Internet environment is a bit unique when visiting China on a business trip or vacation. In China, the government imposes Internet restrictions (“golden shield”), which prevents access to sites abroad, such as Google, Twitter, and YouTube. Therefore, this article will carefully select and explain five recommended copasential eSIM services that can be used in China.
It also introduces how to use the Internet in China as comfortably as in your home country. We hope you will find it useful!
Table of Contents
1. What is an eSIM for use when traveling in China?
1.1 Comparison with Pocket Wi-Fi
1.2 Comparison with prepaid SIM cards
1.3 Summary of Advantages
2. How to purchase a China eSIM
2.1 Precautions before purchase
2.2 Comparison of 5 selected China eSIM brands
3. Advantages of Using an eSIM in China
4. Points to note when using an eSIM in China
Summary
What is an eSIM that can be used for travel in China?
A China eSIM, which can be purchased overseas, is a service that allows you to download data to your smartphone and use a mobile connection in China.
By preparing in advance in your country, you can use the Internet as soon as you arrive in China. Since the product itself is not physical, there is no need to go through cancellation procedures after returning to your home country. In addition, there are a wide variety of data capacities and days of use to choose from to suit your travel or business trip schedule.
Furthermore, for those who wish to reduce communication costs during their stay in China, we recommend the low-cost plans available.
So why is an eSIM better than a traditional SIM card or rental pocket Wi-Fi when using a mobile phone from your country to China?
1.1 Advantages of eSIM compared to pocket Wi-Fi
Convenience
There is no need to carry an additional Wi-Fi device to use an eSIM. Once you purchase an eSIM, simply scan the QR code or enter the activation code to activate your data connection immediately. In contrast, Wi-Fi on the go requires carrying an additional device and requires frequent charging, connection, and management, adding to the hassle of travel.
Network Stability
An eSIM uses the local carrier's network directly, thus avoiding unstable Wi-Fi signals. On the other hand, in-flight Wi-Fi can have poor connections or weak signals, especially in remote areas.
Sharing Issues
When multiple people travel and use carry-on Wi-Fi, signal sharing can slow down network speeds. An eSIM, on the other hand, does not have this problem and can be used independently, ensuring faster network speeds.
1.2 Advantages of eSIM compared to SIM cards
No need to replace the card
eSIM does not require SIM card replacement and can be activated by simply setting up the phone without removing and inserting the card. Conventional SIM cards, on the other hand, must be purchased, inserted, and configured, especially in China, where the purchase of a SIM card can involve a cumbersome authentication process.
No need to worry about loss or damage.
Since an eSIM functions as a virtual SIM card and there is no actual physical card, there is no need to worry about loss or damage. In contrast, SIM cards are easily lost or damaged when replaced, especially during travel.
1.3 Summary of Advantages
The advantages of eSIMs over pocket Wi-Fi and prepaid SIM cards are mainly convenience, stability, and security.
In China, eSIMs allow for more flexible access to the Internet, avoiding the inconveniences caused by government Internet censorship and signal interference. Therefore, eSIM is definitely the best choice for traveling in China.
2. how exactly do I buy a China eSIM?
Once you have decided on an eSIM, the next step is how to buy one. Purchasing an eSIM is a simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure problem-free use.
2.1 Pay attention to the timing of your purchase
Timing of Purchase
It is recommended to purchase an eSIM as early as possible prior to travel. Most eSIM providers support online purchase, so choose the appropriate data package in advance according to your itinerary.
Some eSIMs purchased overseas are compatible with applications such as LINE and Instagram, but there is no guarantee that SIM cards purchased in China will work properly.
On the other hand, eSIMs are not widely available in mainland China, so purchasing one offline after traveling to China will not help if you cannot connect to the extranet.
To avoid such a hassle, we recommend that you purchase an eSIM in advance.
Timing of Activation
After purchase, please activate your eSIM before arriving in China. some eSIM packages can be activated upon arrival at your destination, while others require activation within a specific period of time to avoid usage problems.
If you are unsure whether an eSIM will work with your phone, or if you are buying an eSIM for the first time and do not know how to do it, buy an eSIM that you can try out in Japan first.（Only for Japenese）
2.2 Three eSIMs recommended for travel in China
There are several brands on the market that offer eSIM services in China. Here are some common eSIM service providers
AlmondSIM
Operating Company:
Big Connect Co., Ltd.
Pricing:
1 day: $4.42
3 days: $8.13
5 days: $10.92
7 days: $16.12
8 days: $18.07
10 days: $22.43
30 days: $57.72
Available for 1 to 30 days
Data Capacity:
1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 20, 25 days: 1GB/2GB per day
3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 30 days: 1GB/2GB; 3GB; 5GB; 10GB; 20GB; 30GB per day
Service Fees: Free
Network Provider: China Mobile & China Unicom
LINE/Google: Available
Tethering: Available
Support: Email/LINE (24/7 support)
Same-Day Purchase: Available
Application: Official AlmondSIM Website
Holafly
Operating Company: Holafly
Pricing:
1 day: $6.9
3 days: $12.9
5 days: $20.9
7 days: $29.9
10 days: $36.9
30 days: $74.9
Available for 1 to 90 days
Data Capacity: Unlimited
Service Fees: Free
Network Provider: China Mobile
LINE/Google: Available
Tethering: Available
Support: Chat/LINE (24/7 support)
Same-Day Purchase: Available
Application: Official Holafly Website
Trifa (トリファ)
Operating Company: Trifa Co., Ltd.
Pricing:
1GB: $6.8
3GB: $12.8
5GB: $18.1
10GB: $32.7
30GB: $88.8
Unlimited (3 days): $20.5
Unlimited (7 days): $41.3
Data Capacity:
3 days: 1GB/3GB/Unlimited
7 days: 1GB/3GB/Unlimited
15 days: 3GB/5GB/Unlimited
31 days: 5GB/10GB/30GB
Available for 1 to 60 days
Service Fees: Free
Network Provider: China Mobile
LINE/Google: Available
Tethering: Available
Support: Chat (24/7 support)
Same-Day Purchase: Available
Application: Official Trifa Website
These eSIM providers offer a variety of pricing plans and data capacities, making it easy to choose based on your travel or business needs. Whether you prefer unlimited data, shorter-term options, or a more flexible plan, there is an eSIM that can meet your needs while traveling in China. Make sure to review the features, such as tethering, LINE/Google accessibility, and support, to find the most convenient option for your stay.
3. advantages of using eSIM for travel to/from China
As a revolutionary technology, eSIM offers many advantages
No need to carry physical SIM cards
Whether traveling for business or pleasure, eSIM eliminates the need to carry multiple SIM cards and simplifies communication setup.
Global Coverage
Because eSIM supports worldwide roaming, you can easily switch networks in multiple countries without having to frequently change SIM cards.
Cost Savings
Many eSIM service providers offer daily billing packages, so you only pay for the traffic you actually use, eliminating unnecessary costs.
Convenient Setup
The eSIM purchase and activation process is very easy: simply scan the QR code or enter the activation code, and setup is completed in minutes.
4. notes on using an eSIM in China
Using an eSIM in China is very convenient, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Terminal compatibility
Not all handsets are compatible with eSIM (especially older model phones). Please check if your device is eSIM compatible before purchasing.
Link:
SIM lock issues
Some handsets may be restricted by a “SIM lock” at the time of purchase and may not be able to use eSIMs from other carriers. please make sure your handset is unlocked in order to activate the eSIM smoothly.
Problems with multiple handsets
The eSIM cannot be switched between multiple handsets like a traditional SIM card. Once an eSIM is purchased and activated on one device, it cannot be used on any other device.
Network Speed
The eSIM itself provides good network coverage, but the signal may be weak in some areas. If you need a more stable connection, consider an encrypted connection via VPN.
Conclusion
For travelers and business people preparing to travel to China, eSIMs offer a convenient, flexible, and secure option for accessing the Internet.
By choosing the right eSIM provider, purchasing and configuring it to your needs, you can seamlessly connect to the Internet in China and easily avoid the hassles of Internet censorship.
Whether you choose an eSIM, pocket Wi-Fi, or prepaid SIM card, understanding the benefits and caveats of each will help you make the best choice for you.
