China eSIM

Arriving in China, Singaporean travelers often face limited access to familiar services like WhatsApp and Google Maps, expensive roaming charges, or the hassle of buying a local SIM. An eSIM solves these problems by providing instant mobile data upon landing, allowing seamless access to essential apps like Baidu Maps, WeChat, and Didi. With convenience, flexibility, and value-for-money, an eSIM is the best way to stay connected in China. Whether for navigation, payments, or ride-hailing, the right eSIM options in China ensure a smooth trip. Here’s everything you need to know about using an eSIM in China.

What is eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM that lets Singaporean travelers access local networks in China without needing a physical SIM card. Simply scan a QR code to activate it on your phone—no more hunting for SIM vendors or dealing with expensive roaming. With a China eSIM, you’ll get instant mobile data upon arrival, allowing seamless use of essential apps like WeChat, Baidu Maps, and Didi. Whether navigating cities, paying with Alipay, or booking trains on Trip.com, an eSIM keeps you connected affordably and hassle-free. Here’s your complete guide to the best eSIM for China!

Must-Have Apps for Tourists in China

Navigating China’s digital landscape can be tricky for Singaporean travelers—restricted apps, language barriers, and cashless payments make local apps essential. From ordering food to booking transport, having the right tools ensures a hassle-free experience. Below are the must-have apps for a smooth trip.

How To Set Up Your China eSIM?

Step 1: Choose the best eSIM plan

There are several providers that offer Japan eSIMs. Choose the one that best suits your needs.

Step 2: Select the data package

Once you've chosen a provider, you'll need to purchase a data plan that suits your needs.

Step 3: Receive your ACTIVATION EMAIL

You will receive an email with installation instructions and a reminder of the latest installation time. Please make sure that there’s available WIFI or connected to networks before installation.

Step 4: Add your eSIM

To activate the eSIM, simply scan the QR code on your phone.

Set as the instructions:

1. System - Settings - Cellular (iOS) / SIM Card Management (Andriod).
2. Add a Cellular Plan (iOS) / SIM Card (Android).
3. Agree to download Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
4. Scan the QR code in the received email for activation (or enter SM-DP +Address and Activation Code manually).

Step 5: Scan the QR code to activate your eSIM

1. After the completion of the installation, we recommend that you disable eSIM until you reach your destination.
2. After the download is successful, close the primary card if you already have one. Enable the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
3. After arriving at the destination, please open your eSIM, and turn on roaming. Then you can access the Internet.

You can now connect to the Internet and enjoy the convenience of Japan eSIM as per your selected plan.

How to close?

Open the open Cellular (iOS) or SIM Card Management (Android), and click to turn off the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android) (the steps of enabling and disabling are the same).

Who Are The Main Telco Operators in China?

China Mobile (中国移动)

China Mobile is the largest telecom operator in China with the most extensive nationwide coverage. They offer reliable 4G/5G networks and support eSIM for compatible devices, making them a top choice for travelers needing seamless connectivity.

China Unicom (中国联通)

China Unicom is another major provider with strong network coverage, especially in urban areas. They offer competitive data plans and eSIM options, making them popular among international visitors.

China Telecom (中国电信)

China Telecom provides solid network coverage and is known for its stable connections. They also support eSIM for travelers, though their plans may vary depending on the region.

Hong Kong Operators (for Cross-Border Use)

For travelers frequently crossing between mainland China and Hong Kong, eSIMs from CMHK (China Mobile Hong Kong) or CSL can be useful, as they offer cross-border data packages.

How to Choose the Best eSIM for China

Coverage

Check which Chinese networks (China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom) the eSIM uses, especially if traveling beyond major cities. China Mobile has the widest coverage, including rural areas, while China Unicom offers faster speeds in urban centers like Beijing and Shanghai. Read recent traveler reviews to confirm real-world reliability in your destinations.

Usage

• Light users (messaging, maps, social media with VPN): 1GB/day
• Moderate users (navigation, video calls, social media): 2–3GB/day
• Heavy users (streaming, frequent uploads): 5GB+/day or unlimited plans

Pricing

Compare plans from providers like Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, or local operators. Key factors:

• Cost per GB (e.g., 10GB for 30 days vs. 3GB for 7 days)
• Network quality (China Mobile eSIMs may cost slightly more)
• VPN inclusion (critical for accessing blocked services)

Flexibility

• Short trips: Choose plans with 1-week validity
• Long stays: Opt for monthly plans with top-up options
• Multi-country trips: Select eSIMs covering China + neighboring regions

Avoid non-refillable plans if your stay duration is uncertain.

Services

Consider any additional services offered by the provider, such as international roaming, discounts, or responsive customer support. These extras can enhance your overall experience and give you peace of mind while traveling.

Who Uses China eSIM?

Frequent Travelers

For those who visit China regularly for work or leisure, an eSIM eliminates the hassle of buying a new physical SIM each trip. It provides instant connectivity upon arrival, avoiding language barriers at SIM shops and ensuring seamless access to essential apps like WeChat, Alipay, and Didi.

Business Travelers

Professionals traveling to China for meetings or conferences rely on eSIMs for reliable, high-speed data without roaming fees. Staying connected is critical for emails, video calls, and accessing work tools—especially since many Western platforms (Google, Slack) are blocked without a VPN.

Tourists

First-time visitors benefit from an eSIM’s convenience, using maps (Baidu Maps), translation apps, and ride-hailing services (Didi) immediately after landing. No more struggling with airport SIM kiosks or worrying about overpriced roaming plans.

Students & Expats

International students or long-term visitors use eSIMs to maintain affordable communication with family abroad (via VPN-enabled apps) while accessing local services. It’s a flexible solution compared to locking into long-term contracts with Chinese carriers.

Digital Nomads

Remote workers hopping between cities in China need uninterrupted data for co-working and navigation. An eSIM with VPN support ensures access to global tools (Zoom, Gmail) while using local apps for daily life.

Find the Best China eSIM

Skip the hassle of searching for physical SIM cards in China—avoid language barriers, long queues, and strict registration requirements. The smarter, faster solution? Switch to a China eSIM for instant connectivity the moment you land.

With an eSIM, you can focus on exploring China’s vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich culture—not struggling with mobile data. Simply purchase your eSIM online before your trip, download it in seconds, and activate it with a tap. No SIM swaps, no paperwork, no stress.

Enjoy affordable, flexible data plans that keep you connected across China, whether you’re navigating with Baidu Maps, paying with Alipay, or booking trains on Trip.com. Need access to blocked apps like WhatsApp or Google? Some eSIMs even include built-in VPN support.