China & Hong Kong SAR China & Macao SAR China
5G on 4 of 4 carriersMainland China has dense urban coverage but some services and websites are blocked without a VPN. Hong Kong and Macau have separate telecom markets, and a regional eSIM avoids buying multiple physical SIMs when moving between these territories.
Plans for China & Hong Kong SAR China & Macao SAR China
Pick a row — it prices the box aboveInternet restrictions
Mainland China blocks many Western websites and services; you may need a VPN to access them, and some VPNs are unreliable.
Registration
Physical SIMs in mainland China require real-name registration, but travel eSIMs are usually pre-activated; check that your eSIM does not require local registration.
Payments
Mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are dominant; set them up before arrival as cash is less accepted.
Will my eSIM work in mainland China without a VPN?
The eSIM provides data, but access to many Western sites may be blocked; a VPN is often used.
Is Hong Kong covered by the same network as mainland China?
The eSIM includes Hong Kong networks like CMHK and 3, so it will switch when you cross the border.
Do I need to register my eSIM with the Chinese government?
For short-term visitors, travel eSIMs are generally not subject to real-name registration, but you should verify current rules.
Can I use the eSIM in Macau?
Yes, CTM and 3 are listed, so the plan covers Macau as well.
Will I have coverage on the high-speed train between mainland China and Hong Kong?
Coverage is mostly continuous, but there may be brief drops in tunnels or at the border crossing.
How much data should I buy for China?
If you plan to use maps, translation apps and social media, larger allowances like 10 GB or more may be appropriate; but choose based on your usage.