Moving to China is an exciting adventure, but one of the first challenges you'll face is navigating the internet landscape. Whether you're moving for work, study, or to teach English, here's everything you need to know about staying connected.

What Websites Are Blocked in China?

As a newcomer, you might be surprised to find that many websites and apps you use daily don't work in China. Here's a quick overview:

Social Media & Messaging

• Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X)
• WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal
• Snapchat, TikTok (international version)
• Pinterest, Reddit

Google Services

• Google Search, Gmail, Google Drive
• Google Maps, Google Photos
• YouTube
• Google Play Store

News & Media

• New York Times, BBC, CNN (intermittently)
• Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal
• Netflix, Hulu, Disney+
• Many international news websites

Other Services

• Dropbox, OneDrive
• Slack (sometimes)
• Wikipedia (intermittently)
• Many international dating apps

What Works Without a VPN?

Good news! These popular services work fine in China:

• WeChat - China's super app for messaging, payments, and more
• Alipay - Digital payment platform
• Didi - Ride-hailing (like Uber)
• Taobao/Tmall - Online shopping
• Meituan - Food delivery and services
• Bing - Microsoft's search engine
• LinkedIn - Professional networking
• Skype - Video calling (though quality varies)

Setting Up Your Digital Life in China

Before You Arrive

1. Download a VPN (Most Important!)

• Research VPNs that work in China
• Subscribe before arriving
• Download apps on all your devices
• Test that everything works

2. Backup Your Important Data

• Download important files offline
• Save contacts and addresses
• Screenshot important information
• Set up cloud storage you can access via VPN

3. Set Up Alternative Communication

• Create a WeChat account
• Share your WeChat ID with contacts
• Consider setting up a Chinese phone number ahead of time

After You Arrive

1. Get a Chinese Phone Number

• Visit a China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom store
• Bring your passport
• Choose a plan (data-heavy plans recommended)
• Enable mobile hotspot for your other devices

2. Set Up WeChat Pay

• Link your Chinese bank account or international card
• Verify your identity
• Start using it for everything (seriously, EVERYTHING)

3. Test Your VPN

• Connect to different servers
• Check speeds at different times
• Have 2-3 backup VPN services

Daily Life with a VPN

When You Need a VPN

• Checking Gmail or work email
• Accessing Google Drive or Dropbox
• Using social media
• Video calls on WhatsApp/FaceTime
• Watching Netflix or YouTube
• Online shopping from international sites
• Accessing your home bank account
• Reading international news

When You Don't Need a VPN

• Using WeChat for messages and calls
• Paying with WeChat Pay or Alipay
• Ordering food on Meituan or Ele.me
• Booking taxis on Didi
• Shopping on Taobao
• Using Chinese apps and services

Best Practices for Expats

Internet Usage

1. Always have your VPN ready - Don't wait until you desperately need it
2. Use nearby servers - Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore offer better speeds
3. Split your usage - Use local apps when possible to save VPN data
4. Expect slowdowns - During sensitive dates or events, VPNs may be slower

Communication

1. Embrace WeChat - It's how everyone in China communicates
2. Set expectations - Tell family/friends back home about potential delays
3. Have multiple options - Email, WeChat, VPN-enabled WhatsApp
4. Join expat groups - Find local communities on WeChat for tips and support

Working Remotely from China

If you're working for an international company while in China:

Essential Tools

• VPN - Non-negotiable for accessing company servers and Western services
• Hotspot backup - Use your phone's data if home internet fails
• Time zone apps - Coordinate with colleagues back home
• Local cloud storage - Baidu Pan works without VPN

Challenges to Expect

• Video call quality - Can be unstable, even with VPN
• File transfers - Large files take time to upload/download
• Service disruptions - VPNs occasionally stop working
• Speed variations - Internet speeds vary by city and time of day

Entertainment in China

Streaming Services

With a VPN, you can access:

• Netflix, Disney+, Hulu
• HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video
• Spotify, Apple Music
• YouTube, Twitch

Without a VPN, popular options include:

• iQiyi, Youku, Tencent Video (Chinese content)
• QQ Music, NetEase Music
• Bilibili (similar to YouTube)

Gaming

• Steam works (mostly) without VPN
• PlayStation Network and Xbox Live need VPN
• Mobile games generally work fine
• Some international servers blocked

Money Matters

Banking

• International bank websites usually need VPN
• Set up mobile banking before arriving
• WeChat Pay and Alipay are essential
• ATMs are everywhere and usually work with foreign cards

Online Shopping

• Amazon needs VPN
• Taobao/Tmall work without VPN (and are amazing!)
• AliExpress accessible but Chinese version better
• Payment via WeChat/Alipay is instant

Health & Safety

VPN Considerations

• Using a VPN for personal use is generally accepted for expats
• Don't share sensitive political content
• Respect local regulations
• Keep a low profile about VPN usage

Mental Health

• Stay connected with home via your VPN
• Join expat communities (online and offline)
• Download meditation and mental health apps before arriving
• Keep entertainment options accessible

Your First Month Checklist

Week 1:

• ✅ Get Chinese SIM card
• ✅ Set up WeChat and WeChat Pay
• ✅ Test your VPN on all devices
• ✅ Find your nearest convenience store and supermarket
• ✅ Download essential Chinese apps (Didi, Meituan, Alipay)

Week 2:

• ✅ Open a Chinese bank account
• ✅ Link bank account to WeChat Pay/Alipay
• ✅ Join local expat WeChat groups
• ✅ Learn basic Mandarin phrases
• ✅ Explore your neighborhood

Week 3-4:

• ✅ Establish internet routine (VPN vs. local apps)
• ✅ Find reliable restaurants on Meituan
• ✅ Connect with colleagues or classmates
• ✅ Set up regular video calls with family
• ✅ Explore entertainment options

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not setting up VPN before arriving - VPN websites are blocked!
2. Relying on just one VPN - Always have backups
3. Ignoring WeChat - It's essential for life in China
4. Not getting a Chinese phone number - You'll need it for everything
5. Expecting Western internet speeds - Be patient with your VPN

Final Thoughts

Living in China as an expat is an incredible experience. While the internet restrictions can be frustrating at first, you'll quickly adapt. With a reliable VPN and the right local apps, you'll stay connected with home while fully embracing your new adventure in China.

Remember: millions of expats successfully navigate internet access in China every day. With proper preparation and the right tools, you will too!

Pro tip: Join expat forums and WeChat groups in your city. They're goldmines of information about which VPNs work best, where to find Western products, and how to solve everyday challenges.

Welcome to China! 🇨🇳🎉