If you’re planning a trip to China, you’ve probably heard of the Great Firewall — the country’s internet censorship system that blocks access to sites like:

YouTubeInstagramFacebookWhatsAppGoogle services

But what if you could bypass all of that without installing a VPN?

Good news: you can — and I’ll show you how.

Access the Internet in China Without a VPN: The Smart Way

After living in China for nearly 2 years, I’ve tested dozens of methods to stay connected. Here’s the best working solution in 2025 — no technical skills or shady hacks required.

Step 1: Use an International eSIM like Airalo

The easiest and most reliable method is using a travel eSIM that connects your phone through international servers, avoiding Chinese censorship altogether.

Here’s why I recommend Airalo:

Instant 4G/5G internet upon arrivalNo VPN required — access to Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp just worksBypasses China’s Great Firewall using roaming from outside Mainland China (like Hong Kong)Quick setup: just scan a QR codeWorks in all major Chinese cities and most rural areas

Get $3 off your first eSIM with promo code: PONTE3
Download the Airalo app here

Need a VPN Alternative for Laptops?

While Airalo works great on smartphones, VPNs are still necessary for computers if you want to upload content, stream, or access blocked websites.

But here’s the catch:

Most big-name VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are often detected and blocked in China.

That’s why I use and recommend LetsVPN — a lesser-known but highly reliable app that consistently works in China (even when the others fail).

Why LetsVPN Works:Designed to avoid detection by the Chinese firewallAvailable on App Store and Google PlayLightweight, fast, and doesn’t kill your batterySupports background connections — perfect for uploading large files (like YouTube videos)

Bonus: Use my referral ID 506246218 when signing up to get 3 days free.

Why Does Airalo Work Without a VPN?

Here’s the clever part:

When you install Airalo’s international eSIM (like Asia Link or Global plans), your phone goes into roaming mode, connecting to internet servers outside Mainland China — usually via Hong Kong, Singapore, or Thailand.

That means:

No Chinese internet restrictions
No firewall
Full access to Google, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and more

Final Thoughts: Stay Connected in China the Easy Way

Whether you’re a tourist, digital nomad, or content creator, staying connected in China doesn’t have to be hard.

TL;DR:Best eSIM: Airalo – use code PONTE3 for $3 offBest VPN for laptops: LetsVPN (use referral ID 506246218)

With this combo, you’ll enjoy fast, unrestricted internet in China — no tech headaches, no VPN drama.

The post 🌐 How to Access the Internet in China Without a VPN (Even YouTube & Instagram) appeared first on Michele Ponte.