China eSIM with Phone Number – Do You Really Need It?

Most tourists visiting China for a short trip don’t need a local phone number. Data-only eSIMs like Gigago provide internet access for using WhatsApp, WeChat, maps and translation apps. However, if you’re staying longer or need to use services like Alipay, WeChat Pay, or food delivery apps that require SMS verification, a Chinese phone number becomes necessary. Understanding your specific needs will help you choose the right connectivity solution for your trip.

I. Is a China eSIM with a phone number necessary for tourists?

For most tourists visiting China, a data-only eSIM is perfectly sufficient.

Most tourists primarily need internet access, not a local phone number. With a data connection, you can:

• Use WhatsApp, Telegram, FaceTime, and WeChat for communication
• Navigate with maps and translate signs
• Stay connected with people back home

Only business travelers or those staying long-term might benefit from having a Chinese phone number. For typical tourists, a data-only eSIM provides everything needed at a lower cost.

II. Common challenges: getting a China eSIM with phone number

Getting a China eSIM with a local phone number is much harder than getting one with data only. Here’s why:

China requires real-name registration for all phone numbers:

• Chinese citizens must use their national ID card
• Foreigners must show their passport in person
• Most registrations must happen at physical carrier stores

The language barrier is another big problem. Activation usually requires understanding Mandarin Chinese, as carrier websites and staff primarily speak Chinese.

Many international eSIM providers can’t offer real Chinese phone numbers. Be careful of misleading offers that actually provide:

• Foreign numbers that don’t work properly in China
• Virtual numbers that only work with certain apps
• Numbers that can’t receive verification codes from Chinese services

If you truly need a Chinese phone number, your best option is visiting an official carrier store in China with your passport.

III. When might you actually need a China eSIM with Phone Number?

A local number helps with important daily activities in China. You’ll need one to receive verification codes from Chinese banks and payment apps. It also makes Chinese apps easier to use, including Didi (ride-hailing), Alipay, and food delivery services.

Additionally, a Chinese number lets you call local businesses that don’t use international apps. This includes restaurants, hotels, and delivery services.

For typical tourists staying less than two weeks, a data-only eSIM is usually enough. Only get a phone number if you’re staying longer or need these specific services.

IV. Where to get China eSIM with phone number (If You Must)?

The most reliable way is through China’s official carriers: China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom.

You must visit a carrier store in person after arriving in China. Bring your passport and visa for the required real-name registration. Store staff will help you select a plan, though language barriers may be challenging.

Most international eSIM platforms cannot provide genuine Chinese phone numbers. When they advertise “China eSIMs with phone numbers,” they typically offer:

• International numbers from other countries
• Virtual numbers that only work with specific apps
• Numbers that can’t receive verification codes from Chinese services

If a Chinese phone number is essential, plan to visit a carrier store after arriving in China. For most travelers, a data-only eSIM combined with your home SIM provides enough connectivity.

V. Best alternative: Gigago China data-only eSIM

Staying connected in China is challenging due to internet restrictions. Gigago offers two data-only eSIM options without requiring a Chinese phone number.

1. Gigago China eSIM (Standard)

This option provides reliable connectivity across mainland China with a built-in VPN. You can access Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube without installing separate VPN apps.

Starting at $13.90, this eSIM works only in mainland China and is perfect for most travelers. It doesn’t support TikTok or ChatGPT, but handles most other international websites and apps.

2. Gigago China eSIM (TikTok Supported)

If you need TikTok access, this premium option offers complete firewall bypass with no VPN setup. You’ll get full access to TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms.

Starting at $3.00, this eSIM works in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. It’s ideal for content creators or travelers visiting multiple Chinese territories.

Both options require no passport, arrive instantly via email, support hotspot sharing, and let you keep your home SIM active for calls and texts. Gigago’s eSIMs offer a simple way to stay connected in China without the hassle of getting a local SIM card.

VI. FAQs