Project Golden Shield: Bypassing the Great Firewall of China

Worried about functioning internet access while being in China, being hesitant about whether navigation tools work, what and where to buy to stay connected? This article got you covered!

Internet Censorship: the urge for a well-functioning VPN

As you might be aware, China is applying internet censorship to prevent Chinese citizens the access to outside cyberspaces that have been deemed as detrimental. This selective denial of access is better known as the “Great firewall of China”.

The most common way to bypass the Great Firewall is ensuring to have a reliable and well-functioning VPN (virtual private network) provider. You do have the option to buy a physical local SIM card at the bigger airports, such as Shanghai. Apparently, this works well. I have never tried this option to be honest, so my recommendation goes into the direction of eSIM cards, which I have had fantastic experiences with. Plus, you have the option to make sure yourself to be best-equipped before stepping onto the airplane.

eSIM Providers: Holafly as personal favourite!

Speaking of eSIMs, there is quite a number of service providers to choose from, some of which internet access and connectivity work better than others. You may choose between daily, weekly, monthly packages. Pay attention to what is included in the overall service offering packages, etc. data volume, connectivity, phone compatibility, fees, etc.

My personal favourite and recommendation on an eSIM goes to Holafly, as it provides unlimited data and is easy in handling. Once downloaded onto you phone, the eSIM simply needs to be activated when arriving in China. Choose the eSIM as primary data source (this may vary from mobile phone to mobile phone). A detailed instruction on how to use the eSIM is included when purchasing and customer support via WhatsApp is available 24/7. I have had internet access everywhere I went and due to the unlimited data was able to undertake video- and WhatsApp calls whenever I wanted.

Whatever you decide for, it is important to find a most suitable provider packages for your own needs. Therefore, take some time to compare different offerings to choose the, for you most convenient, option prior to traveling to China. Here are some of possible eSIM providers you might take into consideration:

• Surfshark

• Express VPN

• NordVPN

• AtrillVPN

• LetsVPN

• Holafly