Internet & Calls

You have two options for obtaining a SIM card: eSIM or physical SIM card, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Details are as follows:

Option A - eSIM Card:

1. 3HK:

We recommend purchasing "3HK" before your departure. This eSIM card includes internet service and a Chinese phone number. You can order it directly from the official website, and the eSIM QR code will be sent to your email. Please ensure your phone model supports eSIM before purchasing. You can find the download links for the App Store or Google Play on the official website.

Advantages:

In mainland China, it supports roaming across three networks: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, with seamless switching and 5G NSA access, ensuring no signal dead zones.

You can freely make calls, and send/receive SMS. Receiving SMS is free, but making calls incurs charges. This means you can use WeChat to book all attractions and show tickets conveniently by receiving SMS verification codes.

Disadvantages:

If you need a physical SIM card, it can only be shipped to Hong Kong.

GPT (presumably referring to certain services) cannot be used, but other international websites like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram are accessible.

Note: If you encounter network issues, such as being unable to switch to "China Mobile," you can select the robot customer service in the My 3 APP and enter "reset roaming network," then follow the prompts.

If your package is running low and you want to continue using it, you can renew it directly on the original package without needing to purchase a new one. Otherwise, the original package will be temporarily unavailable until the new package is used up.

It is recommended not to switch phones if your package is not fully used, as the original package may not transfer to the new phone.

2. Nomad:

You can purchase "Nomad" before your departure. This eSIM card only includes internet service. Ensure your phone model supports eSIM before purchasing. You can download the Nomad app from your app store, choose a package, and install it before departure. Once you arrive in mainland China, you can connect directly.

Advantages:

Mainland China restricts some apps like Google and Instagram, which require a VPN to use. This eSIM card does not have such restrictions.

Disadvantages:

It cannot make calls or send/receive SMS, which is necessary for booking many attractions and shows that require a Chinese phone number.

Option B - Physical SIM Card:

If you prefer a physical SIM card, we recommend:

China Unicom: Suitable for foreigners, with foreign language customer service support.

China Mobile: Good signal, but some packages may not be available for foreign passports.

If you arrive at Beijing Airport, you can purchase a SIM card at the hotel reservation counter on the 2nd floor of Terminal 3, International Arrivals B. You will need your passport and on-site facial recognition. A 7-day unlimited data package costs approximately $14, averaging less than $2 per day. Similar services are available at other city airports.

Advantages:

You can make calls and send/receive SMS, allowing you to register for WeChat without any issues and book tickets for attractions and shows easily.

Hotels, cafes, and malls offer free WiFi, but phone number verification is required, making a SIM card more convenient.

Disadvantages:

To access Google, Instagram, and other restricted websites, you need to download a VPN software before arriving in China.

Visual Guide for Purchasing at Beijing Airport:

Option C - VPN Selection:

When you purchase and use a physical SIM card in China but want to access social media platforms like Google, YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook, you will need to purchase a VPN service.

Recommended VPNs:

VPN restrictions in China change rapidly. In 2025–2026, several providers that were once stable experienced widespread disconnections. We strongly recommend:

① Test your chosen VPN on your home network before departure to make sure it connects successfully;

② Prepare at least 2 backup VPNs in advance;

③ After arriving in China, if a VPN stops working, try switching nodes or protocols (WireGuard/UDP/TCP).