Best VPN for traveling to China in 2025

When planning a trip to China, packing is only part of the preparation. What is another key factor? Ensuring that you have free access to the internet while you’re there. Due to China’s “Great Firewall” policy, which restricts internet access through legal and technical means, many familiar websites and apps such as Google, YouTube, Instagram, and even WhatsApp cannot be accessed without the right tools.

Here you will find everything you need to know about choosing and using a VPN in China.

Understanding China’s Internet Restrictions

Before getting into specific VPN recommendations, it’s important to understand what you’re up against. The Great Firewall of China is constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated at detecting and blocking VPN connections. This means that a VPN that worked last month might not work today, and the situation can change rapidly, especially during important political or social events when restrictions are often tightened.

Key Points About Internet Access in China

• Dynamic Blocking: The effectiveness of VPNs varies over time as the firewall adapts
• Carrier Differences: Your mobile carrier in China can affect VPN performance
• Pre-Trip Planning: Always download and set up your VPN before arriving in China
• Heightened Restrictions: During major events, VPN blocking may intensify

Mobile Carriers and VPN Performance

An often overlooked factor in VPN performance is your choice of mobile carrier in China. The country has three main providers:

1. China Telecom
2. China Mobile
3. China Unicom

Recent tests have shown that China Telecom is more VPN-friendly than other operators. ExpressVPN works well on China Telecom and China Mobile. Surfshark performed stably on China Telecom but poorly on China Mobile.

Top VPNs That Work in China in 2025

After extensive testing of many popular VPNs, I’ve identified four reliable contenders that consistently bypass the Great Firewall. These services not only work well in China but also offer essential security features like kill switches (which prevent data leaks if your VPN connection drops) and strict no-logs policies.

1. ExpressVPN: Best Overall Choice for China

ExpressVPN stands out as the top performer for travelers for several reasons:

Pros:

• Simple Setup: No special configuration needed to work in China
• Verified No-Logs Policy: Has been independently audited and proven in real-world situations (including a server seizure by Turkish authorities that confirmed no user data was stored)
• Fast Connection Times: Connects in about 2 seconds, compared to 10-15 seconds for many competitors
• User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive design makes it easy for VPN beginners
• Extensive Server Network: Over 3,000 servers in 105 countries
• Reliable Access: Consistently bypasses the Great Firewall
• 24/7 Support: Live chat available to troubleshoot any issues

Cons:

• Higher Price Point: Premium service comes with a premium price tag
• Website Access Issues: May require alternative domain links if you’re already in China

ExpressVPN’s strongest selling point for travelers is its simplicity. Their customer support staff confirmed that no manual configuration is required — after downloading, the app is ready to use in China. This is a significant advantage for less tech-savvy travelers, who may be confused by complicated setup processes.

2. Surfshark: Best Budget-Friendly Option

If you’re looking for a more affordable option that doesn’t compromise on essential features, Surfshark is an excellent choice:

Pros:

• Unlimited Connections: Secure all your devices with one account
• Advanced Features: Includes “No Borders” mode specifically designed for restricted networks
• Rotating IP: Helps prevent detection by the Great Firewall
• Camouflage Mode: Obfuscates your traffic so it doesn’t appear as a VPN connection
• Large Server Network: Over 3,200 servers in 100 countries
• Ad Blocking: Built-in feature to enhance browsing experience
• Affordable Pricing: Significantly cheaper than ExpressVPN
• Dedicated IP Option: Available at an additional cost

Cons:

• Carrier Limitations: Works most consistently with China Telecom
• Jurisdiction: Based in the Netherlands (a 9-Eyes country), though this is mitigated by their no-logs policy and RAM-only servers

Surfshark’s “No Borders” mode is particularly valuable for travelers. This feature automatically detects when your network is restricted and connects you to servers optimized for bypassing censorship. The Camouflage Mode further helps by disguising your VPN traffic, making it harder for the Great Firewall to detect and block.

3. NordVPN: Strong Security Focus

NordVPN offers a powerful combination of security features that make it well-suited for China:

Pros:

• Top-Tier Encryption: Uses the best available encryption methods
• Audited No-Logs Policy: Independently verified privacy practices
• Privacy-Friendly Jurisdiction: Based outside major surveillance alliances
• RAM-Only Servers: Servers that can’t retain user data beyond a reset
• Threat Protection: Blocks ads, trackers, malicious links, and malware downloads
• Extensive Network: Over 5,700 servers across 60+ countries
• Consistent Performance: Reliable speeds across various server locations
• Dedicated Domains for China: Special access points to bypass censorship

Cons:

• Less China-Specific Features: Doesn’t highlight China-specific modes like Surf shark’s NoBorders
• Occasional Connection Issues: May require manual configuration during heavy restriction periods

NordVPN excels at providing not just access in restricted environments, but also comprehensive security while doing so. Their threat protection feature is particularly valuable in environments where network security might be compromised.

4. PrivateVPN: Simplicity and Ownership

PrivateVPN offers a streamlined approach that might appeal to less technical users:

Pros:

• Simple Interface: User-friendly design that’s easy for beginners
• Stealth VPN System: Disguises VPN traffic to evade detection
• Server Ownership: Owns all its servers (around 200 across 63 countries) rather than renting
• Affordable Option: One of the cheapest reliable VPNs for China
• Free Trial Available: Test before committing to a subscription
• Protocol Flexibility: Can use SSL VPN protocol when OpenVPN and L2TP are blocked

Cons:

• Smaller Network: Only about 200 servers (vs. thousands for other providers)
• Swedish Jurisdiction: Based in a 14-Eyes country
• Slower Speeds: Generally not as fast as the top-tier options

PrivateVPN’s complete ownership of its server infrastructure provides an extra layer of security since they don’t have to deal with third-party server hosting. Their stealth VPN system is specifically designed to bypass the types of deep packet inspection used by the Great Firewall.

VPN Protocols for China

Understanding VPN protocols can help you troubleshoot when connections fail. Here’s what works best in China:

• OpenVPN with Obfuscation: The most reliable protocol when properly configured
• SSL VPN: Used by PrivateVPN when other protocols are blocked
• Stealth Protocols: Various provider-specific implementations that disguise VPN traffic
• Lightway (ExpressVPN): Custom protocol designed to be more resistant to blocking

When a firewall detects and blocks standard protocols such as OpenVPN or L2TP, switching to a more specialized or complex protocol can often restore the connection. Most advanced VPNs will automatically select the most appropriate protocol, but knowing how to manually switch is very useful when there are connection problems.

Manual Configuration: A Crucial Backup Plan

All four recommended VPNs offer manual configuration options for when automatic connections fail. This is an essential feature for travelers, as the Great Firewall sometimes blocks standard VPN apps from functioning normally.

Each provider offers detailed guides for manual setup on major operating systems:

• Windows
• macOS
• iOS
• Android
• Linux

These guides typically include step-by-step instructions for configuring connections using different protocols. Some providers even offer guides in Chinese to better assist local users or travelers who have Chinese-speaking companions.

Having these manual configuration details saved offline before your trip can be a lifesaver if your VPN app stops working and you can’t access the provider’s website for support.

Alternative Domain Access: The Secret Weapon

When the main websites of VPN providers are blocked in China, alternative domain names (also called mirror sites) become crucial. These are specially created domains that aren’t yet on China’s blocklist, allowing users to access the VPN service even when the main site is unreachable.

All four recommended VPNs maintain multiple alternative domains specifically for Chinese users:

• ExpressVPN provides alternate website names that change periodically
• Surfshark offers several dedicated domains for Chinese users
• NordVPN uses dedicated domains to slip past censorship
• PrivateVPN provides alternative access points for users in restricted regions

Before traveling to China, it’s wise to:

1. Save several of these alternative domains in your notes
2. Email yourself the current list of working domains
3. Save the support email addresses for your VPN provider

These alternative domains are regularly updated as old ones get blocked, so checking with customer support for the latest working domains shortly before your trip is recommended.

Essential Tips for Using VPNs in China

Before You Travel

1. Download and Test Before Departure: The most important step is to install and test your VPN before entering China. Once there, accessing VPN websites can be challenging.
2. Save Alternative Access Methods: Save alternative domain URLs and support email addresses before your trip.
3. Install on All Devices: Make sure your VPN is installed on all devices you’ll be using in China, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
4. Check for Updates: Ensure your VPN app is updated to the latest version before departure.
5. Save Manual Configuration Instructions: Download or screenshot manual setup guides in case you need them offline.

During Your Stay in China

1. Connect Before Browsing: Always turn on your VPN before opening any other apps or browsing the internet.
2. Use the Kill Switch: Enable this feature to prevent data leaks if your VPN connection drops.
3. Try Different Servers: If one server isn’t working well, switch to another. Sometimes servers closer to China (like those in Japan, Singapore, or Taiwan) provide better performance.
4. Contact Support When Needed: All recommended VPNs offer 24/7 customer support.
5. Be Aware of Political Events: During significant political events or anniversaries, internet restrictions often tighten. Plan critical online activities accordingly.
6. Switch Between Protocols: If connection problems persist, try manually changing your VPN protocol.

What If Your VPN Doesn’t Work?

Even the best VPNs can occasionally struggle against the Great Firewall. If you find yourself unable to connect, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Switch Protocols: Try changing between different VPN protocols in your app settings
2. Use Alternative Domain Names: Access your VPN’s website through their mirror sites
3. Try Manual Configuration: Use the manual setup instructions when apps don’t work
4. Contact Customer Support: All recommended VPNs offer 24/7 support via email
5. Try Different Times: VPN blocking can sometimes intensify during certain hours
6. Change Servers: Try connecting to different server locations
7. Switch Between Wi-Fi and Mobile Data: Sometimes one network type works better than another

Understanding VPN Limitations in China

While VPNs are essential tools for travelers, it’s important to set realistic expectations:

• Occasional Disconnections: Even the best VPNs may experience temporary disconnections
• Slower Speeds: Your internet connection will likely be slower than usual when using a VPN
• Changing Effectiveness: A VPN that works today might struggle tomorrow as the Firewall adapts
• Mobile vs. Wi-Fi Performance: VPNs often perform differently on mobile data versus hotel Wi-Fi

Why Free VPNs Are a Bad Idea for China

It’s tempting to save money with a free VPN, but this is one situation where cutting corners doesn’t pay off. Free VPNs:

• Lack Resources: No infrastructure to consistently bypass complex restrictions
• Offer Poor Security: May leave your data vulnerable
• Provide Unstable Connections: Frequently disconnect or fail to connect altogether
• May Sell Your Data: Often monetize their service by collecting and selling user information
• Have Limited Server Options: Offer fewer servers, resulting in slower speeds
• Can’t Access Streaming Content: If they can’t handle simple geo-restrictions, they have no chance against the Great Firewall

Investing in a high-quality VPN service is well worth it for such a crucial issue as maintaining a secure internet connection in China.

Beyond the Great Firewall: Other Travel Tech Tips for China

While securing a reliable VPN is your most important tech preparation for China, here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth digital experience:

1. Download Offline Maps: Google Maps won’t work without a VPN, so download offline maps or consider alternatives like Maps.me or Baidu Maps.
2. Install WeChat: This Chinese super-app is essential for communication, payments, and much more within China. Set it up before your trip, as verification can be tricky once you’re there.
3. Download Translation Apps: Google Translate works offline if you download the Chinese language pack before your trip.
4. Prepare Alternative Communication Plans: Let friends and family know that your usual communication apps might not work consistently.
5. Bring a Power Bank: Running a VPN constantly will drain your battery faster than normal.
6. Use QR Code Payments: Even without a Chinese bank account, some payment platforms allow tourists to link international bank cards.
7. Save Important Information Offline: Don’t rely on cloud services that may be inaccessible without a working VPN.

Popular Sites and Apps Blocked in China

To help you prepare, here’s a list of commonly used platforms that are blocked in China and will require a VPN to access:

• Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Reddit, Pinterest, Snapchat
• Google Services: Search, Gmail, Maps, Drive, Docs, Photos, YouTube
• Communication Apps: WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger
• News Sites: New York Times, BBC, Wall Street Journal, Reuters
• Streaming Platforms: Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+
• Productivity Tools: Dropbox, Slack (sometimes), certain VPN websites
• AI Platforms: ChatGPT, Claude, and other AI chatbots

Regional Differences in Internet Restrictions

It’s worth noting that internet restrictions can vary across different regions of China:

• Major Cities like Beijing and Shanghai sometimes have slightly more relaxed restrictions in areas frequented by international visitors
• Business Districts and international hotels may have networks that are marginally less restricted
• Hong Kong and Macau operate under different systems with significantly fewer internet restrictions
• Tourist Attractions occasionally offer limited access to certain platforms to accommodate visitors

However, these differences are subtle, and you should never count on being able to access blocked content without a VPN.

Final Thoughts: Staying Connected in China

Navigating China’s internet restrictions is an inevitable part of traveling to this fascinating country, but with proper preparation, it doesn’t have to diminish your experience. By selecting a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, or PrivateVPN, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can maintain access to the websites, apps, and services you rely on.

Remember that the digital landscape in China is constantly changing, so check for the most current information before your trip. The effort you put into preparing your digital access will pay off tremendously in convenience and peace of mind during your journey.

China offers incredible experiences—from stunning landscapes and ancient history to cutting-edge cities and delicious cuisine. Don’t let internet restrictions prevent you from sharing these experiences with friends and family back home or accessing the information you need during your travels.

Disclaimer: While using VPNs is common among travelers to China, it’s important to respect local laws and regulations during your visit. This guide is provided for informational purposes to help travelers maintain access to their usual online services while abroad.

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