Visiting the Great Wall of China, enjoying Haidilao hotpot, or admiring the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an — many people travel to China for its exotic experiences; however, the country’s internet restrictions can surprise many visitors. China’s “Great Firewall” blocks popular apps and websites, including Google, Facebook, YouTube and WhatsApp, leaving travellers disconnected from essential tools.
But don’t worry! A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a great solution for bypassing these restrictions while protecting your privacy. Let’s explore why a VPN is useful in China, how it works, and how to choose the right one for your next trip.
Why Is Internet Restricted in China?
China has established internet restrictions since the internet was introduced to the country in 1994, as a way to protect its political values. Former leader Deng Xiaoping famously said, “If you open a window for fresh air, you have to expect some flies to blow in”.
In line with this sentiment, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) closely monitors online activities, viewing other ideologies as “flies” that need to be swatted away. To enforce this, the government implemented the “Great Firewall,” a system that blocks access to over 100,000 international websites and platforms.
Western online newspapers and websites like Google, Twitter and Instagram are all banned in China, along with other popular platforms such as Wikipedia, Netflix, Spotify and LinkedIn. These restrictions are also considered as a way to encourage the use of local platforms like WeChat and Baidu.
While these alternatives are functional, travellers may struggle to adapt, as they are used to certain apps and tools for communication, work or accessing basic information.
What Is a VPN and How Does It Work?
A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a technology that encrypts your internet connection and routes it through servers in other countries, allowing you to bypass the “Great Firewall” and access blocked websites as if you were browsing from outside China. More importantly, it makes your online activity private and anonymous, protecting you from cyberattacks.
For tourists in China, downloading a VPN not only provides access to basic apps like Gmail, ChatGPT and TikTok, but also adds a layer of security when connecting to public Wi-Fi in hotels and cafés.
Should You Use a VPN in China?
Yes if you need to access western means of communications, then yes, you should download a secure VPN for China, so you can easily stay in touch with your relatives while visiting this amazing country. Without one, you may face significant challenges, especially if you do not speak Mandarin and do not read Chinese. A VPN also safeguards your personal information by encrypting your internet connection, which is particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi. Bear in mind that using free public Wi-Fi is not recommended, whether in China or elsewhere.
However, it’s important to note that China has strict regulations on VPNs. While using a VPN for personal reasons isn’t illegal, the government discourages their use and has blocked many services. Do a thorough research and select a suitable VPN service ahead of your trip.
How to Choose the Right VPN for China?
Not all VPNs work well in China, so choose a service with strong encryption, fast speeds and servers located in nearby regions, such as Hong Kong or Japan. These features help promote better performance and reliable access to blocked websites, bypassing the “Great Firewall”.
Popular options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark, which are known for their reliability in China. Make sure to download and set up your VPN before arriving, as many VPN websites are blocked within the country. Testing your connection beforehand can save you unnecessary trouble during your trip. Always keep the app updated to avoid any disruptions in service.
Alternatives to VPNs in China
One common option is to use Chinese-approved apps and platforms:
- WeChat can be used for messaging, calling and even payments;
- Baidu serves as an alternative to Google for searching information;
- AutoNavi can replace Google Maps and Uber for maps, navigation and taxi bookings.
These apps are widely used in China and aren’t subject to restrictions. Another alternative is purchasing a Chinese SIM card with a local data plan. Some travellers use this alongside international roaming services. Yet, a local SIM won’t grant access to blocked websites and apps, and international roaming is often expensive.
Lastly, offline solutions can be a useful backup. Download maps, language translation tools and travel guides in advance. Services like Google Translate allow you to download language packs, and apps like Maps.me work without internet. While these options won’t fully restore your online freedom, they can be handy during your trip.
Header Image Credit: orpheus26 and bjdlzx via Canva
