Using an eSIM is the simplest way to stay online in China. No need to worry about high roaming charges, blocked apps like WhatsApp or Google Maps, or the stress of buying a local SIM. With data ready the moment you arrive, you can easily find your way with Baidu Maps, make payments on WeChat, and book rides through Didi at an affordable cost.
❤️Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking flights to China and China hotels in advance to secure the best rates.What is a Esim
An eSIM is a digital SIM that lets Filipino travelers connect to local networks in China without using a physical card. You just scan a QR code to activate it on your phone, so there’s no need to look for SIM shops or pay high roaming fees. With a China eSIM, you get mobile data right away when you arrive, making it easy to use WeChat, Baidu Maps, and Didi. From finding your way around the city to paying with Alipay or booking trains on Trip.com, an eSIM keeps you connected at a good price and without hassle.
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.
How To Set Up Your China eSIM?
Step 1: Choose the best eSIM plan
There are several providers that offer China 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:
- System - Settings - Cellular (iOS) / SIM Card Management (Andriod).
- Add a Cellular Plan (iOS) / SIM Card (Android).
- Agree to download Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
- 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
- After the completion of the installation, we recommend that you disable eSIM until you reach your destination.
- After the download is successful, close the primary card if you already have one. Enable the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
- 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.
💥Note: If there are problems such as activation failure, please contact Customer Service without deleting the eSIM.（*The eSIM can only be installed one time by one phone or one device. If removed, it cannot be added again.)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.
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
Don’t waste time looking for a SIM card when you arrive in China. With an eSIM, you can get connected right away. Just buy it online before your trip, download it in a few seconds, and turn it on when you land. No long lines, no paperwork, no stress.
It’s cheaper and more convenient too. You’ll have data for maps, Alipay, and booking trains on Trip.com. Some eSIMs even come with VPN so you can still use WhatsApp and Google while you’re there.
🎉Pro Tip: Looking for the ultimate travel experience? Don’t miss out on the China travel guide for tips, top attractions, plus insider local insights!
