Does eSIM Work in China? Can You Use Google &WhatsApp in China?
does eSIM work in China / China eSIM / China eSIM for tourists / Google in China / WhatsApp in China / CMHK APN / eSIM for China travel
Does eSIM Work in China? Can You Use Google & WhatsApp in China?
If you’re searching for “does eSIM work in China”, “China eSIM for tourists”, or “can I use Google and WhatsApp in China”, here’s the real key: it’s often not about the plan name — it’s about the data route / APN. This guide explains why eSIMKitStore’s China eSIM uses APN: CMHK (Hong Kong route), and how to install and use it so you can stay connected with Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook while traveling in China.
Yes, eSIM works in China. Whether Google / WhatsApp / Instagram / Facebook work smoothly often depends on the data route (APN). eSIMKitStore’s China eSIM uses APN: CMHK (Hong Kong route), which can help you use these apps more like you do outside mainland China (real-world performance can still vary by location and device settings).
1) Why “Google & WhatsApp in China” often depends on the APN (data route)
Many travelers assume “Google doesn’t work in China” is purely a phone/VPN problem. For travel eSIMs, a big factor is where your mobile data is routed.
Two plans can both be called a “China eSIM”, but if one routes data via Hong Kong (for example, APN: CMHK), it may feel more like “overseas internet” for apps such as Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook.
eSIMKitStore’s China eSIM uses APN: CMHK (Hong Kong route)
eSIMKitStore’s China prepaid travel eSIM uses APN: CMHK. That’s why many users specifically ask: “Will this China eSIM work with Google and WhatsApp?” With the right route and correct setup, it’s designed to help you stay connected more smoothly.
2) 1-second check: dial *#06# to confirm your device details (and spot eSIM-ready models)
Before you buy a China eSIM, the #1 requirement is that your phone supports eSIM. A quick way to verify your device identifiers is to open the dialer and type: *#06#
• You’ll see your device IDs like IMEI (and sometimes IMEI2).
• On some devices/variants, you may also see EID (eSIM identifier). Seeing an EID is a strong sign your phone supports eSIM.
*#06#, also check your settings for an option like “Add eSIM” / “Add Cellular Plan”. You can also verify here: eSIM Compatible Devices List (English) 3) Who should use a China eSIM (CMHK route)?
✅ Recommended if you want “overseas-style” connectivity in China
- You need Google Search and Google Maps for navigation and planning
- You rely on WhatsApp for work or family communication
- You want Instagram / Facebook access for social or business
- You want instant data without swapping a physical SIM card
⚠️ Not recommended if your phone doesn’t support eSIM
Make sure your device supports eSIM first: Check eSIM-compatible devices (English)
4) How to buy & set up a China eSIM (step-by-step)
STEP 1 — Choose a plan (days + data)
Pick based on your trip length and usage (maps, messaging, work email, social media). For most travelers, selecting the right days and data amount is enough.
https://esimkitstore.com/products/china-prepaid-travel-esim-card
STEP 2 — After checkout, you’ll receive a QR code by email
- Double-check your email address (your QR code and instructions are delivered there)
- Install your eSIM on stable Wi-Fi before you travel
STEP 3 — Best time to install the eSIM
Recommended: install it 1 day before departure, on reliable Wi-Fi.
Need a visual guide? (English): eSIM Installation & Activation Guide
STEP 4 — When you arrive in China: switch mobile data to the eSIM line
- Go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data, select the eSIM line for Mobile Data
- Turn on Data Roaming if required by your plan
- In many cases, the connection comes online within minutes
This activation screen shows CMHK, which reflects the Hong Kong route. That’s the core reason a China eSIM can feel more usable for Google / WhatsApp / Instagram / Facebook while in mainland China.
• Toggle Airplane Mode ON → OFF
• Restart the phone
• Confirm Mobile Data is set to the eSIM line, and Data Roaming is enabled if required
5) China internet options: eSIM vs physical SIM vs pocket Wi-Fi
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| China eSIM | No SIM swap, quick setup, install before travel, instant connectivity on arrival | Phone must support eSIM; needs correct settings |
| Physical SIM | Widely available | Requires swapping SIM; may affect your home number/SMS |
| Pocket Wi-Fi | Share with multiple devices | Extra device to carry/charge; pickup/return logistics |
Bottom line: For “Google & WhatsApp in China”, the data route (APN) matters
eSIMKitStore’s China eSIM uses APN: CMHK (Hong Kong route). The best workflow is: choose plan → receive QR code → install before travel → switch Mobile Data to eSIM on arrival.
Ready to get connected in China?
Need setup help? See: Activation Guide
FAQ | China eSIM, Google in China, WhatsApp in China, CMHK APN
Q1: Does eSIM work in China?
Yes. A China eSIM can work well, but your experience depends on the plan’s data route (APN), your device’s eSIM support, and correct settings (mobile data line + roaming if required).
Q2: Can I use Google and WhatsApp in China with a China eSIM?
Often, it depends on the data route (APN). eSIMKitStore’s China eSIM uses APN: CMHK (Hong Kong route), which can help you use apps like Google and WhatsApp more smoothly in China (results may still vary by location and device settings).
Q3: How can I quickly check my phone before buying a China eSIM?
Dial *#06# to view device identifiers (IMEI / sometimes EID). If you see an EID, that’s a strong sign your phone supports eSIM. Also check your settings for “Add eSIM” / “Add Cellular Plan”, or verify using: eSIM Compatible Devices List.
Q4: I arrived in China but my eSIM has no data — what should I do?
First, switch Mobile Data to the eSIM line and enable Data Roaming if required. Then toggle Airplane Mode or restart your phone. Most connectivity issues are resolved with these steps.
Q5: Where can I buy a China eSIM?
You can view the China prepaid travel eSIM here: eSIMKitStore China eSIM Plans .