Internet in Shanghai: eSIM & Connectivity Tips
eSIM from 1,00 USD · 100 MB. Networks: China Mobile (5G), China Telecom (4G), China Unicom (5G).
Connectivity in Shanghai
What you need to know: World-class 5G coverage; Metro line LTE on most lines.
Known weak-signal spots in China
- Tibet Plateau and high-altitude Sichuan roads
- Remote karst mountains in Guangxi (Guilin countryside)
- Beijing subway tunnels (improving)
- Underground portions of the Great Wall (cave sections)
Apps you'll need
- Ride-hailing: DiDi, Meituan taxi — you need live data to book and track rides.
- Maps: Baidu Maps, Apple Maps (offline downloads work), MAPS.ME (offline). Download offline maps for the area before leaving your hotel.
- Messaging: WeChat, Line (may need VPN) uses only ~30 MB/hr of active chat.
Practical tip
Indoor coverage in Shanghai (shopping centres, old buildings, underground areas) is often weaker than outdoors. If you lose signal inside, step outside or connect to venue Wi-Fi. For day trips outside the city, download offline maps in advance and don't rely solely on mobile data.