⚠️ Important: Download BEFORE You Go
VPN websites and app stores are blocked in China. You MUST download and set up your VPN before arriving. If you're already in China without a VPN, options are extremely limited.
- • Download VPN apps on all your devices before departure
- • Set up your account and test the connection
- • Download the manual configuration files as backup
⚡ What Works in China (January 2025)
Based on recent testing, these VPNs currently work in China with their obfuscated/stealth modes enabled:
NordVPN: Obfuscated servers work reliably in major cities
Surfshark: NoBorders mode auto-detects censorship
Note: The Great Firewall constantly evolves. What works today may not work tomorrow. These VPNs actively update to stay ahead.
What's Blocked by the Great Firewall?
The Great Firewall blocks most Western websites and services:
🚫 Blocked
- • Google (all services)
- • YouTube
- • Facebook & Instagram
- • Twitter/X
- • Netflix
- • Most news sites
⚠️ Partially Blocked
- • Wikipedia (some pages)
- • Dropbox
- • Slack
- • Discord
✓ Usually Works
- • Apple services
- • Microsoft services
- • Most banking apps
- • Spotify (limited)
- • Many company VPNs
Best VPNs That Work in China (2025)
NordVPN
Most Reliable for China
- • Obfuscated servers specifically designed for censored networks
- • Works consistently in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen
- • Servers in nearby Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore
- • 24/7 support can help with China-specific setup
China Setup:
Settings → Advanced → Obfuscated Servers → Enable. Then connect to recommended server.
Surfshark
Best Budget Option for China
- • NoBorders mode auto-detects and bypasses censorship
- • Camouflage mode disguises VPN traffic
- • Unlimited devices for all your travel tech
- • More affordable than competitors
China Setup:
Settings → VPN Settings → Enable NoBorders and Camouflage Mode. Connect to Hong Kong or Singapore.
Pre-Travel Checklist
Subscribe to VPN and create account
Do this at least a week before departure
Download apps on ALL devices
Phone, tablet, laptop—everything you're bringing
Enable obfuscation/stealth mode
Configure this before you leave—settings may be blocked in China
Download manual config files
OpenVPN and IKEv2 configs as backup if app doesn't work
Test the connection
Make sure everything works before you board your flight
Save support contact info offline
Screenshot or note the VPN's support email/chat for emergencies
Best Server Locations from China
Closer servers = faster speeds. Try these locations first:
| Location | Distance | Expected Speed | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong | Closest | Best | Variable |
| Singapore | Very close | Excellent | High |
| Japan | Close | Very good | High |
| Taiwan | Very close | Excellent | Variable |
| South Korea | Close | Good | High |
| US (West Coast) | Far | Moderate | Stable |
If VPN Stops Working in China
Try a different server
The Great Firewall blocks specific IPs. Switch to a different server in the same region.
Change protocols
Try switching between WireGuard, OpenVPN TCP/UDP, and IKEv2. Different protocols work at different times.
Use manual configuration
If the app doesn't work, try the manual OpenVPN or IKEv2 config files you downloaded earlier.
Wait and try later
During major political events, the firewall gets stricter. It often relaxes afterward.
⚖️ Legal Considerations
VPNs exist in a legal gray area in China. While personal use by foreigners is generally tolerated:
- • Using VPNs is technically against regulations
- • Enforcement against tourists is extremely rare
- • Don't use VPN for anything illegal or politically sensitive
- • Be discreet—don't discuss VPN use publicly
This is not legal advice. Research current regulations before traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I download a VPN after arriving in China?
It's very difficult. VPN websites and app stores are blocked. You'd need someone to send you the app file directly. Always download before you go.
Do free VPNs work in China?
Almost never. Free VPNs don't invest in the obfuscation technology needed to bypass the Great Firewall. Don't rely on them.
Will my work VPN work in China?
Maybe. Corporate VPNs are sometimes allowed for business purposes, but many are blocked. Test before relying on it.
How fast will my VPN be in China?
Expect significant slowdowns. Even with a good VPN, speeds might be 30-50% of normal. Streaming 4K video may be difficult.
Get Your VPN Before You Go
Don't risk being cut off from the internet in China. Set up your VPN now—both come with 30-day money-back guarantees.