Summer 2026 — 10% off your eSIM Code ready — click Apply to lock in your discount.
Skip to content

Data plans · China

China eSIM Data Plans: stay online with Google and Maps

Stay connected effortlessly with our flexible data plans

Instant activation · Email delivery · No roaming fees

24/7 eSIM help Prepaid, no contract

Plans from 1.50 USD

Stay online in China right after landing - no physical SIM card.

  • ✓ Instant delivery: install link for iOS/Android + QR code
  • ✓ Prepaid, no contract (avoid roaming fees)
  • ✓ Hotspot supported (device-dependent)
Choose a data plan All destinations
Prices in:

Top offers

Four popular plans to start. More options and filters are available under “Show all packages”.

1 GB  7 days

China eSIM

Maps & WhatsApp
1 GB
2.00 USD
3 GB  15 days

China eSIM

Recommended Social media
3 GB
4.00 USD
5 GB  30 days

China eSIM

Travel
5 GB
6.00 USD
10 GB  30 days

China eSIM

Hotspot & work
10 GB
11.00 USD

There are 30 more packages. Use filters for validity and data volume.

Show all packages

Does eSIM work in China?

Yes. An eSIM works reliably as long as your device supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Your plan connects to local partner networks (e.g. China Mobile (5G), China Unicom (5G), China Telecom (4G)).

Coverage and internet quality in China

Coverage depends on region and partner network. In major tourist areas it is usually strongest; in remote areas it can vary. 5G may be available depending on location and device; 4G/LTE is still the baseline in many situations.

Practical travel check: connectivity is typically strongest in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xi'an, Chengdu.

Use Google, WhatsApp and Maps in China without a VPN

Mainland China blocks Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and many other services behind the Great Firewall, so a normal local SIM leaves you cut off from the apps you actually use. Our China eSIM plans marked "No-VPN app access" route your data through a global IP, so Google Maps, Gmail, WhatsApp and social apps work normally — no VPN to install or risk. Install before you fly and you land connected.

Networks and coverage across China

China has three large networks — China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom — with excellent 4G/LTE and broad 5G across Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and other major cities. Coverage is strong in cities and along high-speed rail; it can thin out in remote western and mountainous regions.

How much data do you need for China?

Maps, translation apps and messaging are data-light, so 3–5 GB covers a short city trip. For a 1–2 week tour with photos, social media and video calls home, 8–15 GB is comfortable; a 30-day plan is the best value per GB for longer stays.

More China travel-internet guides

FAQs

Quick answers before you buy.

Will Google, WhatsApp and Maps work in China with this eSIM?▼
Yes, if you choose a China plan marked "No-VPN app access". Those plans route your data through a global IP so Google Maps, Gmail, WhatsApp and social apps work normally in mainland China without installing a VPN. A standard local SIM, by contrast, sits behind the Great Firewall.
Do I need a VPN in China if I use this eSIM?▼
With a "No-VPN app access" China plan you generally do not — the global IP routing means mainstream international apps work out of the box. This is simpler and more reliable than relying on a VPN, which can be blocked.
Which network does the China eSIM use?▼
It connects to a major Chinese partner network (China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom) for 4G/5G coverage, while routing app traffic via a global IP so everyday services remain accessible.
Does eSIM work in China?▼
Yes - if your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Coverage depends on local partner networks (e.g. China Mobile (5G), China Unicom (5G), China Telecom (4G)).
Is this worth it for UK travelers?▼
If you want predictable costs and fast setup, a prepaid travel eSIM is usually the easiest option.
Do I get the install link instantly?▼
Yes. Right after purchase we email you an iOS/Android install link plus a QR code.
When does validity start?▼
Your plan typically starts when it first connects to a local network in China. You can install in advance on Wi-Fi.
Can I use hotspot/tethering?▼
In most cases yes. You can share data with your laptop/tablet (device-dependent).
Will WhatsApp keep my number?▼
Yes. Your WhatsApp/Telegram/iMessage stay on your main number; the eSIM provides data.
What if there is no signal?▼
Toggle airplane mode, confirm data roaming is enabled for the eSIM, and try manual network selection. If needed, contact support.

Why buy from TimeTransfers?

Daily (unlimited) plans & Fair-Use

How per-day plans and speed work.

What is a "daily" plan?▼
A daily plan gives you a high-speed data allowance every day (for example 1–2 GB/day). Each day the allowance resets, so you stay connected for the whole validity period.
Is the data really unlimited?▼
Yes — your connection is never cut off. Once you use up the daily high-speed allowance, the speed is reduced (Fair-Use Policy) for the rest of that day, then returns to full speed the next day.
What speed do I get after the daily allowance?▼
After the high-speed allowance, the speed is reduced to the plan's Fair-Use rate (typically around 512 Kbps up to 1 Mbps). That is still fine for messaging and maps, but not for HD video or video calls.

More about IP routing

180 Days to Activate

You have 180 days from the date of purchase to activate your eSIM. This gives you plenty of flexibility to plan your trip without rushing.

Full Tethering Support

All our eSIM plans fully support tethering, allowing you to share your mobile data with other devices like laptops, tablets, or friends' phones without any restrictions or extra charges.

Enjoy seamless connectivity across all your devices, making your travels even more convenient.

Easy eSIM Activation

Activating your eSIM is simple! Just scan the QR code we send you via email, and you're ready to connect. No physical SIM cards, no hassle, just instant internet access.

No eSIM Support on Your Phone?

If your phone doesn't support eSIM, don't worry! You can purchase a portable WiFi device from 9esim.com, a one-time investment that lets you use eSIM technology with any device. 9esim.com

Keep Your Original SIM

With eSIM, you can use your original physical SIM card simultaneously. This means you can keep your local number for calls and SMS while using our eSIM for data abroad.