If you’re coming to China and hoping to access Google, Instagram, WhatsApp, or YouTube, you’ll quickly hit a wall — the Great Firewall.

But here’s the truth: Not all VPNs work in China. Some are blocked completely. Some are slow. Some are just scams.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll show you:

• Which VPNs still work (as tested recently)
• How to install them before you land
• And what to expect while using them in China

Why You Need a VPN in China

The following services are blocked or heavily restricted in China:

• Google (including Gmail, Maps, Translate, etc.)
• Instagram, Facebook, Twitter (X), Snapchat
• WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal
• YouTube, Netflix, Spotify (partially)
• Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows you to access these apps securely by routing your connection through a different country.

What Makes a VPN Work in China?

The Chinese firewall uses deep packet inspection (DPI) and real-time blacklisting. That means most cheap or free VPNs don’t last a day.

To work reliably in China, a VPN must offer:

• Stealth/obfuscated servers
• Constant server updates
• Split tunneling (optional but useful)
• Good mobile apps (iOS/Android)

Top 5 VPNs That Work in China (2025)

1. ExpressVPN

• Extremely fast & stable
• Obfuscated servers by default
• Best for: Video calls, streaming
• Monthly Price: ~$12.95
• [Affiliate link if available]

2. NordVPN

• Affordable with long-term plans
• Obfuscated servers + MeshNet
• Best for: Casual use, travelers
• Monthly Price: ~$11.95

3. Astrill VPN

• Popular among expats in China
• China-optimized servers
• Best for: Power users, remote workers
• Monthly Price: ~$20 (expensive but reliable)

4. Surfshark

• Budget-friendly with good stealth features
• Unlimited device connections
• Best for: Families or multiple users
• Monthly Price: ~$2.49 (long-term)

5. Shadowsocks (DIY/Advanced)

• Open-source proxy protocol
• Requires manual setup or hosting
• Best for: Tech-savvy users who want full control

Free VPNs: Worth It?

Usually no.

Most free VPNs:

• Are blocked within hours
• Have data caps (500MB/month, etc.)
• Don’t offer obfuscation

Avoid: Betternet, Turbo VPN, Hola VPN, etc.

If budget is tight, try:

• ProtonVPN (free version — works occasionally)
• Windscribe (limited free tier)

VPN Setup Tips: Before You Fly

DO install all VPN apps before you enter China
App stores may block downloads once you’re in the country

Log in + test your credentials
Some apps require a 2FA SMS/email that won’t work later

Download multiple VPNs as backups
China sometimes targets a single VPN provider for days or weeks

Save support URLs outside the VPN
You won’t be able to access their help desk unless you’re connected

Final Notes

You won’t need a VPN to survive in China — but you’ll need one to stay connected to the world.

Whether you’re a tourist, digital nomad, or student, investing in a reliable VPN will save you frustration, time, and freedom.

Need help setting one up or have questions about access in certain cities?
[Contact us] or explore our tech tools section on the Smart Travel page.