Best VPN in China: How to Access Blocked Sites & Apps Easily in China

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By Lily

July 30, 2025

Best VPN in China: How to Access Blocked Sites & Apps Easily in China

China has the thing called “The Great Firewall”, which can block almost all VPN traffic and make more and more VPNs obsolete in China. In this guide, I’ll give you some options for VPNs in China and cover everything you need to know to help you access the internet while you’re in China.

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What Is VPN and Why Do I need It in China?

VPN is more commonly used in the meaning of “Ladder”, which means access to blocked websites in China.

Due to China’s extensive internet censorship (The Great Firewall), a VPN is very important to get access to those popular websites, social media platforms like X and Instagram, as well as search engines like Google and YouTube.

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China eSIM: Stay Connected Without a VPN

In China, eSIM can replace the need for a VPN by offering access to global internet services. Some eSIM providers, like Trip.com, offer eSIM plans that include a built-in VPN to help bypass the firewall.

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Best VPN in China that Bypasses the Great Firewall!

Here are 3 most popular VPNs that are quite dependable in China, Express VPN, Surfshark, and Astrill VPN.

VPNs

Pros

Cons

Cost

Express VPN

Most secure; best for streaming; 30-day moneyback service

It does not feature as much as Surfshark does… but it also has a great performance; 8 devices’ limit

 

~$12,95 for a month-to-month plan

Surfshark

More VPN core features; unlimited connections for multiple devices; more budget-friendly

Less competitive on longer plans

~$15.45 per month for the starter plan

Astrill VPN

Gaining a strong reputation for roaming in China

Pricing and with relatively issued connections

~$30 for a month-to-month plan

 

How to Set Up a VPN for China | Download Express VPN for Streaming Anywhere

Credit: from chromewebstore.google.com | Download Express VPN for streaming anywhere

Express VPN – 3000 + servers across 105 countries

It’s the top pick for VPNs in China. Express VPN is considered the most secure option since it does not log, store, or share any data. It has a threat manager to block ads or any infected websites.

As the most consistent VPN in China, it can access streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max, even with a fast speed to watch content in HD or 4K~

By the way, Express VPN has a 30-day moneyback guarantee. You’ll get a full refund if you’re not satisfied with its services.

Best VPN in China | Surshark

Credit: from macupdate.com | Surfshark

Surfshark – 3200 + servers across 100 countries

If Express VPN is probably not up your alley, you can also trust Surfshark for fast speed and streaming access as well! Surshark is a more budget-friendly option than Express VPN without losing its core VPN features.

It also guarantees your 30-day trial with a full refund if it doesn’t meet your expectations. The best part of Surfshark is its unlimited connections for multiple devices. You can share it with all your family members!

Notes: another choice people might recommend is Astrill VPN. But it might be the least choice you want to make for its pricing and the lack of streaming services, especially on Steam. And it doesn’t guarantee you a 30-day moneyback service.

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Paid VPNs VS. Free VPNs in China

There’re free VPNs available when traveling in China. But it comes with more uncertainty and unreliability for its speed, data security, and limited server locations.

Type

Features

Paid VPNs for China

Faster speed

Reliable security (strong no-log policy)

Moneyback guarantee

A wider selection of server locations

A strong success rate using services like Zoom & WhatsApp

Free VPNs in China

Low speed

Risk of data loss

Data limits (daily/monthly)

Ads uncontrolled

Poor customer support

 Note: free VPNs in China, such as Windscribe, ProtonVPN, and TunnelBear.

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Badaling Great Wall
Badaling Great Wall
4.7/5
12262 reviews
The Great Wall at Badaling on a rainy night was quiet and peaceful, offering a thrilling, adventurous experience. The wall, illuminated in the darkness, was incredibly beautiful, and I was very satisfied. There are no cable cars at night, so you have to climb on foot. I was surprised to see several small children despite the slippery conditions due to the rain. The photo is of the northern route. One thing to note about this program is that, because it's nighttime and there are few people, the entrance to the wall is particularly difficult to find. While many people are kind, some (perhaps because I don't speak Chinese) didn't provide sufficient explanations at key points, and some even tried to direct me in the opposite direction, thinking I was a tourist without a night walk reservation, causing me to get lost several times. Also, taxi drivers will approach you if you're lost, but they might not be very friendly. I didn't take any photos, so I can't explain it well, but there are two ticket checks and one security check. As for the return trip, I might have been lucky, but when I requested a ride through the app before 8 PM, a driver was found immediately and arrived in about 3 minutes. Be careful not to get stranded. If you don't get lost, it's a flawless experience, so please use this review as a reference and give it a try!
The Bund
The Bund
4.8/5
5956 reviews
Sure, why not! It'll give you a slightly different perspective on the skyline!
Chimelong Safari Park
Chimelong Safari Park
4.8/5
13608 reviews
I traveled alone and walked around the West Park with animals in 3 hours. It's worth a visit, and it's also a good idea with children. It's a shame the pandas were sleeping.

How to Set Up a VPN for China?

China uses Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) just like your airport security. It shuts down many VPN websites, VPN servers, and disrupts VPN traffic in a way.

So, it’s hard for you to know exactly how to choose and set up a VPN for China. Don’t worry. I’ll get you through how to set up Express VPN this time for a trip to China!

I’ll take Express VPN for example. It still works since it uses advanced obfuscation technology to make itself look like a normal web browser. Set it up before you go to China.

  • Download Express VPN before you arrive! (In case it’s blocked from opening the Express VPN website, download Express VPN on every device you need, such as phone, laptop, and tablet)
  • Sign up and install!
  • Save the activation code by screenshotting or emailing!
  • Turn on automatic updates! (Express VPN regularly updates to bypass China’s firewall)
How to Set Up a VPN for China | Express VPN

Credit: from sneakerfiles.com | Express VPN

After that, you may now be supposed to do these steps to keep more stable when using VPNs in China.

  • Go to Express VPN settings and change the VPN Protocol to “Automatic”. (This allows it to switch between protocols that work the best at that time)
  • Enable the kill switch! (If the VPN disconnects somehow, go to settings, general, and turn on “stop all internet traffic".)
  • Connecting to a server that works in China. (Go to settings, VPN locations, and pick the right server. Recommended locations are Japan, Singapore, the USA, the UK, and France.

 Tips: make sure that your family and friends also download and install the VPN apps; if one location doesn’t work, try another; give it 30 seconds to a minute before switching servers.

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China Entry Requirements & Things to Prepare

  • 24/240 China Visa-Free Transit: US citizens can enjoy a 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit when traveling through 24 Chinese provinces, provided they hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region.
  • China Plug & Power: China plug uses Type A/C/F (220V). Bring a Type A/C adapter (US plugs sometimes work, but bring a universal adapter for safety).
  • Internet Access in China: You need a China VPN for Google/Ins/YT/X, etc. But you can also use a China eSIM with built-in access to overseas apps!

Getting Around & Top Destinations in China

Must-Have Apps in China

FAQs about Best VPN in China

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Lily

Lily

Travel Blogger

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Hey, I'm Lily from Chengdu. I'll constantly post my travel blogs here. I focus on sharing insights from living tips, transfer tricks, to how to get the best price for your international flights & hotels. You'll get the quick & valuable hints for your journey in the future. Stay tuned! Love u all!

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