Does Google work in China? Can you use WhatsApp, Gmail, Google Maps, or Zoom? These are some of the most common questions travelers ask before a trip, because mainland China restricts many foreign websites and apps. The good news is that with a little preparation, staying in touch, navigating, and paying for things is easy. Here is what works, what does not, and the apps you should download before you go.
Why Some Apps Do Not Work in China
Mainland China filters internet traffic, a system often called the Great Firewall. Many foreign services are blocked or very slow on local networks, including hotel and café Wi-Fi. The restrictions apply in mainland China only. Hong Kong and Macau have separate internet rules, and the services below generally work there.
How your connection behaves also depends on how your mobile data is routed. When you roam with a foreign SIM, your data is often routed through your home network, which is why some travelers find foreign apps work while roaming. Local SIMs and Wi-Fi follow Chinese rules. If you use a travel eSIM, ask the provider how the plan connects before you travel.
Google, Gmail, and Google Maps
Status: blocked on mainland networks. This includes Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps, Google Drive, Google Photos, YouTube, and the Google Play Store.
- Before you go: Download important documents from Google Drive, save boarding passes and bookings offline, and set up an alternative email address or forwarding if you rely on Gmail for work.
- Two-factor authentication: Make sure you can receive verification codes by text message on your home SIM, or use an authenticator app.
- Maps: Google Maps is unreliable in China, and its maps can be offset from the real location. Use Apple Maps, which works well in China, or local apps such as Amap (Gaode) and Baidu Maps.
- Search: Bing works in China, as do the local search engines.
WhatsApp and Other Messaging Apps
Status: WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, and Signal are blocked on mainland networks.
- WeChat is essential. Locals use it for messaging, calls, payments, and even booking restaurants. Set it up at home, as new accounts may need verification from an existing user.
- iMessage and FaceTime generally work between Apple devices.
- Tell family and colleagues in advance how they can reach you, in case WhatsApp is unavailable.
Zoom, Teams, and Video Calls
Business travelers often ask about video calls. Microsoft Teams and Outlook generally work in China, although speeds can vary. Zoom can be unreliable on mainland networks. Tencent Meeting (VooV Meeting outside China) is the local alternative. Test your setup on arrival before an important call, and have a backup dial-in number ready.
Social Media
Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok's international version, Snapchat, and most foreign news sites are blocked. Popular local apps include Douyin (China's version of TikTok), Weibo, and Xiaohongshu (RedNote), which travelers increasingly use for restaurant and travel recommendations.
What About VPNs?
Many visitors use VPNs to reach blocked services, but you should know the situation before you rely on one:
- Only government-approved VPNs are permitted under Chinese regulations, and most consumer VPNs are not approved.
- Connections are often slow or unreliable, and VPN websites and app downloads are usually blocked inside China, so travelers who choose to use one install it before arrival.
- Enforcement against short-term visitors is rare, but it is your responsibility to follow local laws.
For many trips, the simplest approach is to prepare offline, use apps that work in China, and keep your home SIM active for verification codes.
Apps to Download Before You Go
- Alipay and WeChat: For payments, now with foreign card support, plus messaging, mini apps, and transit codes.
- Didi: China's main ride-hailing app, available in English.
- China Railway 12306: The official app for high-speed train tickets.
- Apple Maps or Amap: For navigation.
- A translation app with offline Chinese: To read menus and signs, and talk to drivers.
- Trip.com: For hotels, flights, and trains in English.
Stay Connected in China
An egoViet China eSIM installs before you fly and connects on the China Unicom network as soon as you land, so you can use WeChat, Alipay, and Didi from day one. Ask our support team how your plan connects before you travel. Read more in our China eSIM guide and our China travel guide.
FAQs: Apps That Work in China
Does Google work in China?
No. Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps, and other Google services are blocked on mainland Chinese networks. They work in Hong Kong and Macau.
Can I use WhatsApp in China?
WhatsApp is blocked on mainland networks. Use WeChat to contact people in China, and iMessage or FaceTime between Apple devices.
Which map app works best in China?
Apple Maps works well in China, as do the local apps Amap (Gaode) and Baidu Maps. Google Maps is blocked and often inaccurate.
Does Zoom work in China?
Zoom can be unreliable on mainland networks. Microsoft Teams usually works, and Tencent Meeting is the local alternative. Test before important calls.