Use Google, WhatsApp & Instagram in China. No VPN needed.

• Messaging

  WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger

• Social Media

  Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter), Snapchat, TikTok (international)

• Google Services

  Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps, Google Drive, YouTube

• Streaming

  Netflix, Spotify, Disney+, YouTube Music

• News & Info

  BBC, CNN, NYT, Wikipedia, Medium, Reddit

• Other Tools

  Slack, Notion, Dropbox, ChatGPT, most VPN apps

1. 1

   Connect to a local tower

   Your phone picks up a 4G/5G signal from a partner carrier inside China, giving you fast, reliable coverage nationwide.

   Local tower
2. 2

   Data routes outside China

   Unlike a regular Chinese SIM, your traffic exits through Hong Kong or another international gateway before reaching the internet.

   Routes via Hong Kong
3. 3

   Open internet, no blocks

   Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and every other app work exactly like they do at home. No extra software or setup required.

   Guac5G

   Day 1 of 30 · China

Guac eSIM vs VPN vs Local SIM

Pro Tips for Traveling in China

• Navigation

  Google Maps loads with Guac eSIM, but China's government-mandated coordinate system (GCJ-02) shifts GPS positions by 50-500 meters, so it will show you in the wrong spot. On iPhone, use Apple Maps for accurate positioning. On Android, download Amap (Gaode) for precise navigation and public transit directions.

• Payments

  Set up Alipay Tour Pass before you arrive. It links to a foreign credit card and lets you pay with QR codes everywhere from street vendors to hotels.

• Communication

  Download WeChat before your trip. It's essential for communicating with locals, booking restaurants, and sometimes even for Wi-Fi login at hotels.

• Pre-flight Checklist

  Install your Guac eSIM before boarding. Download offline content (maps, translators, guides). Save important info offline. You'll be connected the moment you land.