Back to Home
App
Mobile Service Guide
Complete Guide to China's Three Major Carriers
Official Links
China Mobile
Best nationwide coverage, ideal for inter-city and remote-area travel. Official app supports balance, data usage and top-ups.
China Unicom
Fast urban network with strong international plan options. Official app supports plan changes and recharge.
China Telecom
Stable network and solid call quality with balanced coverage. Official app supports billing, usage and service management.
China has three major mobile carriers: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Foreign tourists can get prepaid SIM cards at airports, train stations, or carrier outlets with a valid passport and visa. This guide helps you choose the best carrier and plan for your stay in China.
Features
China Mobile - Network Coverage
Widest 5G coverage, stable 4G signal, good signal in remote areas. World's largest mobile operator.
China Mobile - Plan Features
Low voice call rates, rich data plans, suitable for heavy callers. Hotline: 10086.
China Unicom - Network Quality
Fast 4G/5G network, excellent urban signal, low latency. Competitive data rates.
China Unicom - Value-added Services
Free data for Tencent apps, video memberships, rich entertainment packages. Hotline: 10010.
China Telecom - Network Stability
Stable connection, excellent call quality, balanced signal coverage. Mobile + broadband bundle discounts.
China Telecom - Security Services
Complete network security, spam call blocking, privacy protection. Hotline: 10000.
Usage Guide
1
Step 1
Prepare valid passport and visa (some outlets may need accommodation proof)
2
Step 2
Go to carrier counters at airports, train stations, or nearby carrier outlets
3
Step 3
Choose carrier based on needs: Mobile for coverage, Unicom for speed, Telecom for stability
4
Step 4
Select a suitable prepaid plan (prepaid cards recommended for short trips, pay as you go)
5
Step 5
Staff will help install the SIM card and activate it
6
Step 6
Download the official carrier app to check balance and data usage
7
Step 7
Set up phone APN (usually configured automatically, no manual setup needed)
8
Step 8
Test calls, SMS, and data network to ensure everything works
9
Step 9
Note customer service numbers: Mobile 10086, Unicom 10010, Telecom 10000
10
Step 10
Apply for service suspension or cancellation before departure to avoid ongoing charges
Pro Tips
- Passport and valid visa required for SIM registration, some outlets may need accommodation proof
- Recommend prepaid plans - pay as you go, no extra charges after use
- Convenient temporary SIM counters available at airports and train stations
- Download official carrier apps to check balance and data usage
- Enable international roaming in advance and understand rates
- Keep purchase receipts and plan details for future reference and complaints
- Apply for service suspension or cancellation before departure to avoid ongoing charges
