Getting a Chinese SIM card is the first thing you should do when you arrive in Beijing. Airport counters make it easy. This guide covers the best options for tourists, pricing, and what you need to bring.
Buying at Beijing Capital Airport
China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom all have counters in the arrival halls. You will need your passport. The staff speak basic English. Options range from 7-day tourist packages to 30-day plans. Prices start around 100 RMB ($14) for basic data plans. They will help you install and activate the SIM.
Buying at Beijing Daxing Airport
Daxing Airport also has SIM card counters in the arrival area. The process is the same - passport required, English assistance available. Daxing is newer and less crowded, so wait times are shorter. Same pricing as Capital Airport.
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eSIM Options
eSIMs are becoming more popular. Airalo and Holafly offer China eSIMs you can install before arriving. They are more expensive than local SIMs but more convenient. Coverage is generally good. eSIMs cannot access some local apps like Didi or Meituan as easily as a Chinese number.
Best Mobile Carrier for Tourists
China Mobile has the best coverage across Beijing, including at the Great Wall and suburban areas. China Unicom offers good value data packages. China Telecom is reliable in urban areas. All three carriers have tourist packages with similar pricing. China Mobile is recommended for broader coverage.
Data Plan Pricing
7-day tourist packages: 50-100 RMB ($7-14) with 10-20GB data. 15-day packages: 100-150 RMB ($14-21) with 20-40GB data. 30-day packages: 150-200 RMB ($21-28) with 40-60GB data. Most packages include a Chinese phone number for receiving SMS verification codes.
Portable WiFi vs SIM Card
Portable WiFi devices can be rented at the airport. They work well but require charging and carrying an extra device. SIM cards are more convenient. If you are in a group, one portable WiFi device can share with multiple people. For solo travelers, a SIM card is better.
Last updated: · Next review: ·Prices and policies may change. We verify all information regularly.
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