Apps commonly reported as blocked in mainland China
- BlockedGoogle Maps
- BlockedGoogle Search
- BlockedGmail
- BlockedYouTube
- BlockedGoogle Drive
- BlockedFacebook
- BlockedInstagram
- BlockedWhatsApp
- BlockedTwitter / X
- BlockedTelegram
- BlockedSnapchat
- BlockedLINE
- BlockedDropbox
- BlockedSlack
Apps reported to work in mainland China
- WorksBaidu Maps (百度地图)Best local navigation
- WorksDidi (滴滴)Ride-hailing, comparable to Uber
- WorksWeChatMessaging + payments for foreigners
- WorksCtrip / Trip.comHotels, trains, flights
- WorksGoogle TranslateCamera translation works offline
- WorksApple MapsUses local data — works without VPN
- WorksMetroChinaOnlineOffline metro maps for major cities
Maps tip: Apple Maps generally uses local map data inside China and tends to work. Baidu Maps is the local standard — install before arrival. Google Maps tiles can be partially viewable, but real-time navigation is often unreliable without a VPN — keep a local map app as backup.
Some eSIM providers describe an international gateway or VPN-like feature on their China plans (see the eSIM comparison). YouChina does not recommend a specific VPN service. eSIM comparison →
How we compare providers
- We list eSIM providers that publicly advertise a China-mainland plan and either route through international gateways or document VPN-like behavior.
- Prices, data caps and validity copy come from the provider's own product page. We mark every record with a "last checked" date and re-verify before each report cycle.
- We never claim that a provider definitely bypasses China's firewall. We describe what the provider documents and what travelers consistently report. Travelers should still install a backup VPN before leaving home.
- Affiliate status is disclosed on every commercial link. We do not change provider ordering for higher commission. Provider ranking is based on price, transparency, hotspot support and traveler feedback.
Sources
- China expands 240-hour visa-free transit policy— The State Council of the People's Republic of China· Reviewed 2026-05-18
- Visa-free entry to China — eligible nationalities (latest update)— Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China· Reviewed 2026-05-18
- Alipay Tour Pass for international travelers— Ant Group· Reviewed 2026-05-18
- WeChat Pay — foreign card support— Tencent· Reviewed 2026-05-18
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