Traveling to a new city or country often means being disconnected from your regular mobile network, leaving you without access to data services like maps, translation apps, and social media. To avoid this, many travelers opt to buy a local SIM card upon arrival at their destination airport.
This guide will walk you through the process of purchasing a SIM card at Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport, one of the major international gateways to the city of Hangzhou and the surrounding Zhejiang province in eastern China.
Upon exiting customs at Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport, you’ll find several kiosks and counters located in the arrival hall, operated by various Chinese mobile service providers such as China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. These kiosks offer a convenient way to purchase a prepaid SIM card with data, voice, and text plans tailored for travelers.
In addition to the dedicated kiosks, several convenience stores within the airport terminals also sell prepaid SIM cards from major Chinese carriers. These stores are typically open throughout the airport’s operational hours, providing a flexible option for purchasing a SIM card before or after your flight.
For a more comprehensive selection of plans and services, you can visit the dedicated stores operated by China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, located within the airport terminal buildings. These stores offer a wider range of options, including contract plans and specialized data packages for longer stays in China.
While not a direct substitute for a local SIM card, Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport offers free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the terminal areas. These hotspots can provide temporary internet access for basic tasks like checking emails or messaging, but they may not be suitable for more data-intensive activities or extended use outside the airport.
For more detailed information on facilities and services available at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, check out their official website by clicking here: Check airport website
| Network | Plan | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD) | Data | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Daily Data Plan | 18 RMB/month | ~$2.60/month | 1 RMB/1GB daily | Cheapest option for light data use. Prices may vary. |
| China Mobile | 30 Day Unlimited Plan | 128 RMB/month | ~$18.40/month | 30GB full speed data | Good value for moderate use |
| China Mobile | 60 Day Unlimited Plan | 238 RMB/month | ~$34.20/month | 40GB full speed data | More data than 30 day plan |
| China Unicom | 1 Month Data-Only SIM | 30 RMB | ~$4.30 | 4GB | Data-only SIM, no calling minutes |
| China Unicom | 7 Day Tourist SIM | 58 RMB | ~$8.35 | 2GB | Valid for 7 days, no Chinese registration required |
| China Unicom Hong Kong | 1 Month SIM | 128 HKD (~160 RMB) | ~$22.90 | 8GB | Bypasses censorship, accepts foreign cards |
It’s important to note that these packages and prices are subject to change, and additional options or bundles may be available depending on your specific needs and the duration of your stay in China.
To purchase a SIM card at Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport, you’ll need to present a valid passport or other government-issued identification document. This is a mandatory requirement in China to comply with local regulations and register your SIM card for use.
Some mobile service providers may require a recent passport-style photograph for the SIM card registration process. It’s advisable to have a few extra photos on hand to streamline the process and avoid any potential delays.
Be prepared to pay for your SIM card and any associated data or voice packages using cash (Chinese Yuan) or an internationally accepted credit or debit card. Major mobile service providers at Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport typically accept various payment methods, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash as a backup.
While many of the airport kiosks and counters have English-speaking staff, having a basic understanding of Mandarin Chinese or a translation app can be helpful in case you encounter any language barriers or need to communicate more complex requirements.
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that is integrated into your compatible smartphone or other mobile devices. Instead of purchasing a physical SIM card, you can remotely activate a data plan from a mobile service provider directly on your device.
For travelers looking to use an eSIM in China, we recommend checking out ChinaESIM.com. We offer various eSIM data plans specifically designed for use in China, with options ranging from short-term visitor packages to long-term plans for extended stays.
China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days
China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days
3GB
China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days
China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days
10GB
China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days
China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days
5GB
China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days
China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days
1GB/day
China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
10GB
China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days
China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days
3GB/day
China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days
China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days
20GB
Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
10GB
Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days
Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days
4GB/day
China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days
China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days
8GB
To use ChinaESIM.com, you’ll need an eSIM-compatible device and the ability to activate the eSIM plan before or upon arrival in China. The activation process is typically done through our website, eliminating the need to visit a physical store or kiosk.
Mobile freedom abroad. Get an eSIM from Chinaesim.com
The three main Chinese mobile operators – China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom – have counters at Hangzhou Airport where you can purchase SIM cards. China Mobile tends to have the best coverage nationwide.
Yes, you will need to present your passport when purchasing a SIM card from any mobile operator at the airport. This is due to China’s real name registration policy requiring foreigners to show their passport.
Operators offer basic starter packs with around 1-2GB of data valid for 1-2 weeks for around 50-100 RMB. They also have monthly plans with larger data allowances if you need connectivity for an extended stay. Be sure to check inclusions like data speeds and validity periods.
Unfortunately eSIMs are not commonly available to purchase at airports in China directly from the mobile operators. An alternative is to purchase a China eSIM online before your trip from a company like chinaesim.com which provides eSIM data packages for China that can be easily activated upon arrival.
Generally SIM cards purchased at airports may be slightly more expensive than those from stores in the city. Prices usually range from 50-150 RMB for starter packs depending on data allowance. It’s worth considering ordering a SIM or eSIM online for cheaper rates.
As a foreigner, you can purchase a SIM card at Hangzhou Airport by simply presenting your passport. No need for a Chinese ID. But be prepared to undergo identity checks as part of China’s real name registration procedures.
Having some key Chinese phrases written down can help explain what plan or SIM size you need if the staff doesn’t speak English. Be sure to activate the SIM before leaving the airport to avoid roaming charges. Also consider options like China eSIM from chinaesim.com to avoid hassles.
Staying connected during your travels in China is essential for accessing crucial information, navigating unfamiliar cities, and staying in touch with loved ones back home. By understanding the options available for purchasing a SIM card or activating an eSIM at Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport, you can ensure a seamless transition into China’s vast mobile network infrastructure.
Whether you choose to purchase a prepaid SIM card from one of the major Chinese mobile service providers or opt for the convenience of an eSIM solution like ChinaESIM.com, being prepared with the necessary documents and information will streamline the process and help you stay connected from the moment you arrive.
Get Started
Useful Guide
