📊 Quick Facts
- Registration Required: Real-name registration mandatory with passport
- Airport Availability: All major airports have carrier counters
- Activation Time: Immediate activation at purchase point
- Data Speeds: 5G available in major cities, 4G nationwide
- International Roaming: Most plans include limited international calling
- Validity Period: Typically 30-90 days for tourist plans
📱 Major Carriers Comparison
Largest network coverage with strongest rural connectivity. Best choice for travelers visiting remote areas or multiple provinces.
| Plan |
Data |
Price |
Duration |
| Tourist Plan A |
20GB |
¥128 |
30 days |
| Tourist Plan B |
40GB |
¥198 |
30 days |
| Premium Plan |
100GB + 5G |
¥298 |
30 days |
Best value for money with competitive pricing and good urban coverage. Popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
| Plan |
Data |
Price |
Duration |
| Economy Plan |
15GB |
¥98 |
30 days |
| Standard Plan |
30GB |
¥158 |
30 days |
| Unlimited Plan |
50GB + Unlimited* |
¥228 |
30 days |
*After 50GB, speed reduced to 1Mbps
Best internet quality with fastest speeds in major cities. Ideal for business travelers and heavy data users.
| Plan |
Data |
Price |
Duration |
| Basic Plan |
25GB |
¥138 |
30 days |
| Business Plan |
60GB |
¥218 |
30 days |
| Executive Plan |
Unlimited 5G |
¥328 |
30 days |
✈️ Airport Purchase Guide
What to Expect at Airport Counters
- Location: Look for carrier counters in arrivals hall (after baggage claim)
- Documents: Bring your passport - real-name registration is mandatory
- Payment: Cash (CNY) preferred, some accept international credit cards
- Language: Staff usually speak basic English, have destination written down
- Setup: Staff will help insert SIM and activate immediately
- Top-up: Ask about adding extra data or extending validity period
Major Airport Counter Locations
- Beijing Capital (PEK): Level 1 arrivals, near exit gates
- Shanghai Pudong (PVG): International arrivals hall, multiple counters
- Guangzhou (CAN): Arrivals level, near customs exit
- Chengdu (CTU): International arrivals, central area
- Xi'an (XIY): Arrivals hall, near information desk
🔧 Activation & Setup
- Insert SIM: Power off phone, insert new SIM card
- Power On: Turn on phone and wait for network registration
- APN Settings: Usually automatic, but manual setup may be needed:
- China Mobile: cmnet
- China Unicom: 3gnet
- China Telecom: ctnet
- Check Balance: Dial *100# to check data balance and validity
- Top-up Options: Use carrier app, convenience stores, or online
- International Calling: Dial + country code + number for international calls
🌐 Data Alternatives & Backup Options
International Roaming
Check with your home carrier for China roaming packages. Often expensive but convenient for short stays.
Portable WiFi Hotspots
Rent pocket WiFi devices at airports or online. Good for groups, but limited battery life.
eSIM Options
Some carriers offer eSIM plans for China. Check compatibility with your device before arrival.
Hotel/Restaurant WiFi
Most hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi. Download offline maps and content when connected.
📝 Practical Tips for 2026
- Buy Early: Purchase SIM at airport to avoid connectivity gaps
- Compare Plans: Consider your data needs - most travelers use 2-5GB per week
- Keep Receipt: Save purchase receipt for potential refunds or issues
- Backup Number: Note down your new Chinese phone number
- App Registration: Use new number to register Chinese apps if international numbers don't work
- Validity Extension: Most plans can be extended by topping up before expiration
- Return Policy: Unused SIM cards can often be returned for partial refund
⚠️ Common Issues & Solutions
- No Signal: Ensure airplane mode was turned off, restart phone
- Slow Speeds: Check if you've exceeded high-speed data limit
- Can't Make Calls: Verify international calling is enabled on your plan
- App Registration Failed: Some apps require Chinese number - use your new SIM
- Lost SIM: Contact carrier immediately to prevent unauthorized use