For tourists visiting Guangzhou, a local SIM card is one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to get in touch. Unlike eSIMs that require compatible devices, physical SIM cards can be used on almost any mobile phone, making them highly suitable for budget travelers, those with old devices, or those who need local phone numbers.
[3% Off] Top 3 China SIM Card Plans
For short stays or eSIM-compatible phones, check our Best China eSIM Guide. Otherwise, a physical China SIM card is the best way to stay connected affordably in China!
You can check the most popular Guangzhou SIM card & eSIM plans below:
China SIM Card (Mail Delivery)
- CoverageChina(Mainland,HK&Macau)
- Data4G-Total-3GB
- Validity3-14 days
- Pricefrom US$5.39
China 5G Universal SIM Card
- CoverageChina(Mainland,HK&Macau)
- Data30GB data + 60 min calls
- PickShanghai Pudong Airport
- Pricefrom US$22.17
China/HK/Macau eSIM
- CoverageChina(Mainland,HK&Macau)
- Data3-50GB Total or 0.5-100GB/Day
- Validity1 to 30 Days
- Pricefrom US$0.43
eSIMs for Guangzhou work just like standard SIM cards but offer the convenience of being fully digital. Once installed, they connect to a local carrier's network—usually China Unicom—enabling high-speed internet access. You can install multiple eSIM profiles on a single device, which is useful for switching between countries or providers. Most eSIMs purchased for use in Guangzhou also work across other Chinese cities.
What is a Guangzhou SIM Card?
A physical SIM card is a small, moveable chip that, when inserted into a mobile phone, can provide mobile data, calls and text messages. Unlike SIM cards, you don't need a special phone - just an unlocked device and a SIM card slot.
Why Choose a Guangzhou SIM Card?
✅ Works in any phone (even older models)
✅ Often cheaper than eSIMs for long-term stays
✅ Includes a local number (useful for ride-hailing and registering)
✅ Easy to find (available at airports, convenience stores, mobile stores)
Who Should Get a Guangzhou SIM Card?
- Travelers using old mobile phones or unlocked mobile phones
- People who need a local phone number
- Budget-conscious users will stay for more than a week
Guangzhou SIM Card & eSIM Reviews
Don't just believe what we say - here are the opinions of passengers on using these Guangzhou SIM cards:
Get a physical China SIM card or I recommend you to get fast Data in China with access to INS/Whatsapp/YT, etc. in China! Don't forget to claim a coupon before you book!
![[5G SIM Card] China 5G Universal SIM Card Total 10GB/15GB/30GB/45GB High-speed 5G Unlimited Data (Pick up at Shanghai Pudong Airport)](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0352g12000fctosaw654A_C_750_480.jpg)
Best Guangzhou SIM Card Providers & Prices
China Mobile (中国移动)
- Best for: Best coverage (4G/5G nationwide)
- Where to buy: Airport kiosks, official stores, online
Data Plan | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Unlimited Data (Data access speed max. 384Kbps) | 10 days | ~$3.85 |
3GB (7.2Mbps) + Unlimited Data (3GB data access speed up to 7.2 Mbps, thereafter max. 384Kbps) | 30 days | ~$8.70 |
2GB Full Speed + Unlimited Data (Data usage reached 2GB, thereafter max. 384Kbps) | 30 days | ~$5.10 |
China Unicom (中国联通)
- Best for: Affordable short-term plans
- Where to buy: Airport, local stores, online
Data Plan | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
5GB | 7 day | ~$28.00 |
10GB | 15 days | ~$45.00 |
30GB | 30 days | ~$60.00 |
China Telecom (中国电信)
- Best for: Long-term stays (cheaper bulk data)
- Where to buy: Official stores, authorized resellers
Data Plan | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
6GB | 30 days | ~$8.40 |
10GB | 30 days | ~$12.70 |
Choosing the right SIM card plan when traveling in Guangzhou can help you stay connected throughout your journey. China Mobile offers a wide coverage area, making it an ideal choice for users who need a reliable network. Their unlimited data plan is very affordable. The 10-day plan costs about $3.85, while the 30-day 3GB high-speed data plan is priced at $8.70, making it suitable for those who need more data. For short-term travelers, China Unicom offers flexible options. Although the price is slightly higher, the 7-day 5GB package costs $28 to meet the needs of users who require a large amount of data. For travelers with longer stays, China Telecom's packages are more cost-effective. A 30-day 6GB package costs approximately $8.40, offering longer usage time and greater data capacity.
When choosing a SIM card, it is crucial to consider your stay time and data requirements. China Mobile's packages are suitable for those who need a stable network connection and do not like frequent recharges, while China Unicom is suitable for travelers who need a large amount of data in a short period of time. China Telecom's plan offers a more cost-effective option for users who have been stranded for a longer time. By comparing these packages, you can choose the most suitable SIM card based on your needs and budget to ensure that you remain connected to the Internet throughout your trip in Guangzhou.
Where to Get a China (Guangzhou) SIM Card?
- Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (CAN) – Kiosks in Arrivals (24/7)
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) – Limited options
- Official carrier stores (China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom) – Best selection
- Online (trip.com) – Pre-purchase & pick up at the airport
⚠ Tip: Bring your passport (required for registration).
How to Use Guangzhou SIM Card
After you arrive at your destination, you will be able to start the service only after you insert the card and search for a signal. No registration or additional settings are required. Most mobile phones will automatically identify the APN. If the device cannot identify it, please manually set the APN and restart the phone (see below for details).
- Insert the SIM card into the phone (a SIM card tool may be required).
- Turn on Mobile Data and Roaming (Settings > Cellular).
- If there is no signal, please restart your mobile phone.
- You can recharge at the convenience store. If necessary, you can also recharge through Alipay.
How to Activate Guangzhou SIM Card APN Settings
In most cases, the APN will be set automatically. If you cannot access the Internet, please refer to the order voucher page to set it manually:
- iOS: Settings > Cellular > [SIM] > Cellular Data Network
- Android: Settings > Mobile networks > Mobile data > Access point name > Add and save
Guangzhou SIM Card
SIM card orders will be delivered within 2 working days after the booking is confirmed and paid
- Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan, delivered by China Post Ordinary Mail/Surface Mail, usually takes 3 to 5 working days
- Delivery in Mainland China by YTO Express and Yunda Express
- Please fill in a complete and valid mailing address. If sending to a hotel/B&B, you need to provide the check-in date and registered name or reservation number so that the hotel staff can reserve this letter for you.
* If you encounter any problems during use, please email your order number and problem description to reservation@triproaming.com for inquiry.
eSIM vs SIM card vs Pocket Wi-Fi in Guangzhou
Feature | eSIM (Digital SIM) | Physical SIM Card | Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot |
|---|---|---|---|
Setup Process | Instant activation via QR code | Requires manual insertion | Device pickup/delivery needed |
Multi-Device | Single device only | Single device only | Connects multiple devices |
Security | No loss risk (digital) | Moderate risk (physical chip) | High risk (external device) |
Power | No battery needed | No battery needed | Requires regular charging |
Functionality | Data-only | Supports calls & SMS | Data-only |
Coverage | Local carrier networks | Local carrier networks | Depends on the device plan |
3 Reasons to Choose a Guangzhou SIM Card
Seamless communication and local connection
A Guangzhou SIM card can ensure reliable access to China's 4G and 5G networks, which cover the entire city, from busy commercial areas like Tianhe to the suburbs. This is crucial for staying in touch with local contacts such as exhibitors at the Canton Fair, hotel staff or tour guides through popular Chinese applications like phone calls, text messages or wechat (a major social and payment platform). Without a local SIM card, international roaming can be very expensive and usually slow or have limited data, which makes daily interactions and logistics more challenging.
Facilitate the use of digital services
Many basic services in Guangzhou rely on mobile connections bound to local numbers. For instance, ride-hailing apps (Didi), food delivery platforms (Meituan), and public transportation payment systems (via wechat or Alipay) all require a Chinese phone number for registration. A local SIM card also simplifies the use of maps (Baidu Maps, Autonavi Maps) for navigation, booking tickets for attractions like Canton Tower, or making cashless payments with an e-wallet - all of which are indispensable for a smooth stay in this city.
Cost-effective data and flexible plans
Local telecom operators (China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom) offer short-term packages tailored for travelers, ranging from 7 to 30 days. These packages include generous data traffic (such as 10GB to 100GB) and are reasonably priced (usually ranging from 50 to 200 RMB). These packages are much cheaper than international roaming charges, which cost several hundred yuan even for limited use. In addition, some plans also include free domestic calls, adding extra value to coordinating meetings or resolving travel issues.
3 Things to Keep in Mind About the Guangzhou SIM Card
Registration requires valid documents
According to the regulations of China Telecom, foreigners must register SIM cards with their passports (or permanent residence permits for foreigners). This applies to purchases made at airports, telecommunications stores or authorized retailers. On-site registration is mandatory. You cannot purchase an unregistered SIM card. Staff will input your passport details into the system. Therefore, please ensure that your document is valid and accessible at the time of purchase.
Short-term plans vs. long-term plans
Most travelers choose short-term "travel plans" (7-30 days) that expire automatically, avoiding the need for cancellation. However, these packages usually limit international calls or require recharging for these services. If the stay is long (for example, a business project), ask about the monthly plan, but be aware that they may require additional paperwork (such as a longer visa) and may involve contractual commitments.
Application and network restrictions
Although Guangzhou SIM cards can access local applications, they cannot bypass China's Internet regulation. Popular international applications such as WhatsApp, Facebook or Google services are still blocked unless a virtual private network (VPN) is used, which is legally restricted for most foreign tourists. By familiarizing yourself with Chinese alternatives (for example, wechat for sending messages and Baidu for searching), you can formulate corresponding plans to avoid connection disruptions during your stay.
[8% Off] Guangzhou Hotels Recommodation
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NO.1
What to Prepare for a Trip to China?
- Visa & Entry Tips China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy now covers 54 countries, incl. the US, UK, Canada, and Brazil, allowing up to 10 days during layovers. Learn more about China Entry Tips to land in China easily.
- Getting Connected VPNs are vital for accessing Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc in China. Set one up before arriving. China eSIMs are the easiest option for data and bypassing restrictions. Pocket Wi-Fi devices work best for group but are pricier and require pickup/return.
- Money Exchange & Tax Refunds Exchange money in China banks (better rates than airports). ATMs accept foreign cards, but notify your bank first. For tax refunds, spend over ¥500 at stores with a "Tax-Free" sign. Keep receipts and get forms stamped at customs before departure.
Must-Have Apps in China
- China Payment Apps Forget cash. Chinese use Alipay (I like it better) or WeChat Pay to pay for everything in China. Scan a QR code at noodle stalls, metros, even temples. Link your foreign Visa/Mastercard before landing.
- China Map Apps Amap (Gaode Map) & Baidu Map (limited English) is what locals use, with real-time navigation, metro/bus routes, and traffic updates. Apple Maps does a good job too if you're already an IOS user.
- China Transport Apps Street taxis are cheap, but drivers rarely speak English. Use China Taxi App like DiDi (China’s Uber)—set your destination in English, pay by Alipay.
- China Travel Apps 15+ China trips taught me: Use Trip.com. It's the best English app for booking China trains/flights/hotels + finds Trip.com deals.
- China Dating Apps Locals use Tantan (China’s Tinder) and Momo. WeChat’s “People Nearby” works too, but expect language barriers unless your Mandarin’s decent.
- China Food App Use Meituan (also helps find nearby restaurants) or Ele.me for food delivery—both have English mode. No English menu in restaurants? Scan the QR with Alipay's translator.
FAQs about Guangzhou SIM Card
Which is the best SIM card for foreigners in China?
There is no absolute "best" SIM - card, and the suitable one depends on individual needs. If you want a comprehensive service, book China SIM on Trip.com. China Unicom's CUBe Card is a good choice. It integrates "communication + payment + transportation" services, allowing you to make calls, surf the Internet, pay for goods using digital RMB, and take public transportation, etc.. China Mobile's Lingdong Card PRO version also has similar functions, which can meet the three core needs of communication, payment, and transportation, and can be used in public transportation scenarios in more than 330 cities across the country. If you only focus on communication needs, you can also choose the short - term SIM card packages launched by China Telecom, which are available in 7 - day, 15 - day, and 30 - day packages, with corresponding data and call minutes, suitable for short - term visitors.Can foreigners buy China SIM?
Foreigners can buy SIM cards in China. They can bring their passports or foreign permanent residence ID cards to the business halls of telecom operators such as China Telecom, China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Broadnet to apply for SIM cards and activate mobile communication services. If they enter China on a group visa, they need to bring their passports and group visas.Can you buy a SIM card at 7 - Eleven?
Generally, 7 - Eleven does not sell SIM cards. SIM cards are mainly sold in the business halls of telecom operators, some airport service points, and some online channels. It is recommended to go to the official business halls of telecom operators to buy, so as to ensure the authenticity of the business and the quality of service.Can I buy a SIM card in China airport?
Yes, you can buy a SIM card at the airport. For example, at Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport, there are service points of China Unicom and China Mobile, where you can buy corresponding SIM cards. The newly launched CUBe Card of China Unicom and Lingdong Card PRO version of China Mobile can be purchased at the service halls of these airports.Can you use WhatsApp on China SIM card?
In theory, a China SIM card can barely be used to register or log in to WhatsApp, because WhatsApp is an overseas - based application, and there may be policy restriction on using it with a Chinese SIM card. However, due to network reasons, WhatsApp may not be used smoothly in China, because it needs to access overseas servers, and there may be problems such as network congestion or inability to connect. But you can book a Trip.com China eSIM to bypass it,