Traveling in China can be an amazing experience — but when it comes to mobile internet, it’s often a bit confusing for foreign visitors. China’s internet infrastructure restricts many Western services like Gmail, Google Maps, Facebook, Instagram, and others behind the Great Firewall. In the past, accessing these sites usually meant using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). However, in 2025, many travel eSIM solutions — including RORO eSIM — make it possible for tourists to stay connected and access many apps without a separate VPN. Here’s how to use an eSIM safely in China and understand what you can and cannot access without VPN.
Does eSIM Work in China Without a VPN?
Yes — many international travel eSIMs can be used in China without installing a separate VPN on your phone. With providers like RORO eSIM, plans are available that connect directly to Chinese networks (such as China Mobile International) and route data with international gateways. This setup often allows you to access many familiar apps without a traditional VPN. For example, users have reported that apps like Gmail, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram worked directly with their RORO eSIM data plan in China without VPN.
RORO’s China eSIM plans are designed to work on 3G/4G/5G networks with China Mobile International, and the data plan automatically activates and connects when you arrive.
What You Can Access Without a VPN
When using a travel eSIM that routes data internationally — like RORO eSIM — you can typically access:
Email services (Gmail, Outlook)
Social messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger)
Social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
Cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox)
Travel apps, ride-hailing, booking apps
According to user reviews and provider info, some travelers in Shanghai and Chengdu were able to use international data services without a VPN using RORO’s eSIM.
Why You Might Not Need a VPN
Using a traditional VPN involves installing an app that reroutes your internet traffic through servers outside China. But:
VPNs can be unstable and may drop connections unexpectedly.
VPN services may be blocked or slow due to firewall interference.
Travel eSIM plans like RORO’s often route data through international gateways by design, which can let many international services work without an extra VPN. This means better speeds and fewer legal uncertainties since you’re not circumventing local network restrictions through independent VPN apps.
Limitations to Know
Even though many apps work without VPN, China’s internet restrictions still apply:
Some services may still be partially blocked or load slowly depending on network conditions.
Chinese government policies can change, and certain Western servers might be restricted at times.
Some domestic services (such as certain government or local business sites) may not be fully accessible without local mobile numbers or apps tailored to Chinese carriers.
Research and reviews indicate that travel eSIMs with international routing — like RORO eSIM — often let you use most Western services without a VPN, but you may still need a VPN if you specifically need services entirely blocked in China or require further layers of privacy.
Safe Practices When Using eSIM in China
Here are some tips to make your eSIM experience in China as smooth and safe as possible without relying on a VPN:
1. Buy and Install Before Arrival
China sometimes restricts access to VPN and eSIM provider websites once you’re inside the country. Installing your plan (like RORO’s) before departure means your phone connects seamlessly on arrival.
2. Turn On Data Roaming
Make sure your eSIM (e.g., from RORO) has data roaming enabled so it connects to China Mobile International’s network upon landing.
3. Monitor Data Usage
Travel eSIMs vary in how they handle data speed and caps (e.g., unlimited plans often have daily fair-use limits). Keep an eye on your usage to avoid running out prematurely.
4. Be Prepared With Local Apps
Even without VPN, have essential local apps installed (e.g., WeChat, Alipay, Gaode Maps) as they work more natively and may not require international services.
