Internet in China
When you arrive in China, the first thing you will want to do is take out your mobile phone or electronic devices to communicate with your family or friends and let them know about your safety. However, you may run into some minor issues, especially if you try to use Google, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or TikTok, as you may have difficulty accessing the internet.
Below we will offer you some practical tips on how to access the Internet in China so that you can surf the web without problems in the country.
China's Internet industry is currently the largest in the world, with the largest number of Internet users and the largest network region. With the development of technology, the connection becomes increasingly stable and faster. Currently, China's Internet speed ranks second in the world.
Do hotels in China offer internet services?
Yes, internet access is available in hotels in China.
In China, internet access is very common, and hotels offer wired network connection in rooms to attract more guests. The Internet has become a necessary facility in the construction of hotels. Some hotels even equip computers in the rooms. Accessing the internet in hotels in China is not a problem, unless you go somewhere too remote or underdeveloped.
Hotels usually offer free WiFi, but it requires a password to access. Therefore, you can ask at the reception for the WiFi password. The password is usually written on the room card, or on a token near the phone, or on the table near the TV. Each hotel has its own WiFi network, so the password is also different. In some hotels, you can even access the Internet without a password, you just need to enter the room number during the online registration process.
How can I get WiFi in public places during my trip in China?
1.With the popularization of using mobile devices to make payments, public places that provide wireless internet access have seen rapid growth. More and more establishments, such as hotels of different categories, shops, fast food restaurants, cafes, bars and entertainment venues, offer free WiFi for their customers. This also includes places such as tea houses, KTVs, saunas and massage centers, which offer free internet access as a way to attract more customers.
2.The development of public WiFi in China is advancing rapidly. Government institutions, such as hospitals, government offices, and municipal parks, are investing considerable financial resources to provide free wireless networks to the community.
3.In addition, in places such as bus stations, high-speed railway stations and airports, free WiFi is also being provided to enhance the travel experience of passengers.
Wifi in Airports
1.In most airports in China, free WiFi access is provided, although not all airports have this service. WiFi availability and quality may vary between airports, some offer a more stable and faster connection, while others may provide a slower and more unstable connection. Before traveling, it is recommended that you check the details about WiFi on the airport's official website.
2.WiFi hotspots are usually located in public areas such as boarding gates or airline lounges. Before connecting to the WiFi network, you may be required to provide personal information and agree to the terms and conditions of service.
3.In addition to the WiFi provided by the airport, you may consider using your mobile data service or purchasing a transit WiFi pass for a more stable and faster connection. Some airlines offer free WiFi, but this is usually available to their members or those booking seats in higher classes.
Wifi at Train Stations
When you travel by train in China and have to wait a long time before boarding, going online is a great way to pass the time.
At most train stations in China, free WiFi and internet access are available. However, the free connection is only available for SIM card users of Chinese phones. To connect to free WiFi, a verification number is usually required after entering the Chinese phone number. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you buy a Chinese phone SIM card. You can get one at one of the China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom stores, presenting your passport as an identification document. If you need help, you can ask your local guide to assist you in this process.
Steps to connect to WiFi
If you already have a phone SIM card, you can connect to free WiFi at airports and stations in China by following these steps:
1.Turn on the WLAN function on your mobile phone, tablet or laptop.
2.Select the WiFi network from the list of networks available at airports and train stations.
3.Access the registration page.
4.Complete the verification process. There are two verification options:
A. Verification via a text message sent to your mobile phone with a Chinese phone number.
B. Verification via WeChat, if you have an account.
5.Enter the verification code received.
6.Click "Connect" and enjoy browsing the internet.
Wifi in Cafes/Restaurants
Many cafes and restaurants in China, as well as hotels, offer free WiFi as a service to attract more customers. You can ask the waiters or staff for the password and WiFi network name. However, in some cafes, you may not be able to connect via your mobile phone as they only offer wired connection that connects to a laptop.
Free Government WiFi Hotspots
The Chinese government always participates in the construction of public free Wi-Fi. Since 2011, there are several cities in China that have popularized the free Wi-Fi policy in the public, such as in Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou. Wi-Fi hot spots are mainly found in tourist attractions, government buildings, major business districts, public parks, hospitals and public infrastructures such as bus stations, subways. Today, every day there are more cities joining in this plan.
To connect with the free government wifi, travelers need to register with the Chinese phone number at first time connection, that means you need to buy a Chinese SIM card.
WiFi on High Speed Trains
Currently, free WiFi is offered on high-speed trains, including the Fuxing series which is fully covered on all train types and lines. In addition, some Hexie series train groups have also enabled WiFi service. If you are traveling with us, you may ask your travel guide help you to download the apps and teach you how to connect. There are three methods to connect to free WiFi on high-speed trains.
Method 1:
1.Go to your phone settings and turn on the WiFi function.
2.Select the high-speed train WiFi network and connect to it.
3.Download the app "掌上高铁" and follow the instructions to connect to WiFi.
The next two ways to connect to the train WiFi require the WeChat app and identity verification.
Method 2:
1.If you have the WeChat app, search for “高铁上网”.
Opt for the mini program "高铁上网".
2.Enter the mini program and click "Connect to WiFi".
3.It is advisable to ask for help from Chinese passengers or high-speed train staff, who usually speak English.
Method 3:
1.Search “掌上高铁服务号小程序” on WeChat.
2.Access the mini program "掌上高铁服务号小程序" and connect to WiFi.
3.Although there is free WiFi on high-speed trains, some require a password and some do not. However, WiFi speed on trains can be very slow due to the large number of users and train movement.
