β± 15β30 min at storeπ Updated 2026π English guide
Staying connected in China is essential β you'll need data for maps, WeChat, DiDi, and everything else. Foreign roaming is expensive and often slow. This guide covers buying a local SIM card or eSIM, registration requirements, and the best plans for short-term visitors.
β¦ Member access β full guide unlocked
What you'll need
Your passport (mandatory for SIM registration by Chinese law)
Cash (CNY) or WeChat Pay / Alipay β some counters don't accept foreign cards
For eSIM: a compatible iPhone (XS or later) or Android with eSIM support
An unlocked phone β locked phones may not work with Chinese SIMs
Free preview β Stage 1
1
Know Your Options & Buy at the Airport
Three carriers to choose from β buy at the airport the moment you land for instant connectivity.
China Mobile β largest network, best rural coverage
China Unicom β most foreigner-friendly, staff often speak basic English, recommended
China Telecom β strong in southern China
All major international airports have carrier counters in the arrivals hall (open ~7amβ10pm)
Hand your passport to staff β they scan it, you sign a form, SIM is activated while you wait (~10 min)
Keep the SIM packaging β your Chinese phone number is printed on it
π‘ China Unicom is the most foreigner-friendly choice β staff at major airports usually have basic English and the setup process is straightforward.
Member stages β 2 & 3
2
Choose the Right Plan
Pick a tourist SIM plan matched to your trip length β and know what to expect.
7-day plan: ~Β₯50β80, 10β20GB data, local calls included β good for short trips
15-day plan: ~Β₯100β150, 20β30GB β best value for 2-week trips
30-day plan: ~Β₯150β200, 30β50GB β best for longer stays or heavy data use
Ask staff for the "tourist plan" (ζ ζΈΈε₯ι€) to get the right package
Speed throttles to 128 kbps after the data cap β enough for messaging, not video
China Mobile plans often include Hong Kong & Macao coverage at no extra cost
π‘ Airport SIMs cost slightly more than city stores, but the convenience is worth it β you'll have data immediately for maps and WeChat.
3
eSIM Option & Topping Up
Set up an eSIM before you arrive, or top up your data once you're in China.
eSIM: supported on iPhone XS+ and most 2020+ Android flagships
China Unicom and China Mobile offer eSIM for foreigners β purchase online, scan QR code to activate
eSIM advantage: keep your home SIM active for calls and 2FA while using Chinese data
Top up via Alipay/WeChat: Services β Phone Recharge β enter your Chinese number
Select data package (ζ΅ιε ) β not just "recharge" β to add data, not call credits
When leaving China, disable the eSIM or remove the SIM to avoid roaming charges
π‘ Chinese SIMs do NOT give access to Google, YouTube, or Instagram β you still need a VPN for those. The SIM gives you fast data for WeChat, Maps, DiDi, and Chinese apps.
π Stages 2 & 3 are member-only
Get the full guide covering plan selection, eSIM setup, and how to top up your data while in China.
π΅Chinese SIMs do NOT give you access to Google, YouTube, or Instagram β you still need a VPN for those. The SIM gives you fast data for Chinese apps (WeChat, Maps, DiDi, etc.).
ποΈCity carrier stores (look for the carrier logo on street-level shops) often have better English-language staff in tourist districts of Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu.
π’Save your Chinese phone number immediately β you'll need it for WeChat, Alipay, and DiDi registrations during your trip.
βοΈWhen you leave China, remove the Chinese SIM or disable the eSIM to avoid roaming charges. Unused SIM cards can simply be discarded.