Telephone & Cellphone in China

Staying connected is essential when traveling in China. Whether you plan to make local calls, use mobile data, or contact family overseas, this guide answers the most common questions about using phones and SIM cards in China.

❓Can I use my own mobile phone in China?

✔️ Yes. As long as your phone is unlocked, it can be used in China.
There are three major telecom operators: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, each using different network technologies. Make sure your phone supports the network of the SIM card you choose.

⚠️ Tip: International roaming charges are expensive. Using a local Chinese SIM card is strongly recommended.

❓ Can I buy a mobile phone in China?

✔️ Yes. You can purchase contract-free mobile phones at official stores or large shopping malls.
If you plan to stay longer, you may also consider a phone with a local contract, which often offers better call and data rates.

❓ Can I make calls immediately after buying a phone?

✔️ It depends.

Phones with a contract usually include a SIM card and are ready to use.
Contract-free phones require you to purchase and insert a SIM card separately.

For international calls, confirm with the carrier that international dialing is activated.

❓ Where can I buy a SIM card in China?

✔️ SIM cards are available at official service counters of China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom.
Most carriers require a prepaid deposit, typically CNY 50–100.

❓ Does a SIM card bought in one city work nationwide?

✔️ Yes. Chinese SIM cards can be used across the country, and there is generally no domestic roaming fee, provided your phone supports 3G/4G/5G networks.

❓ How do I recharge my SIM card?

✔️ You can:

Recharge at the carrier’s service center
Purchase top-up cards worth CNY 30, 50, or 100

❓ Can I check or print my phone bill?

✔️ Yes.

Visit a service center to print a paper bill
Or call customer service to receive an electronic bill on your phone

❓ Who should I contact if my SIM card has problems?

✔️ Contact your carrier’s customer service (English service available):

China Mobile: 10086
China Unicom: 10010
China Telecom: 10000

They can help with billing, network issues, and service activation.

❓ What are the typical call and data rates in China?

✔️ Rates vary by plan, but average prices are:

Voice calls: CNY 0.2 per minute
SMS: CNY 0.1 per message
Mobile data: CNY 0.0003 per KB

Common packages include:

CNY 30 for 300MB data
CNY 15 for 300 SMS
CNY 58 for 260 voice minutes

❓ Can I make international calls directly from China?

✔️ No. International calling must be activated by your carrier first.
Alternatively, IP calling cards are widely available and offer cheaper international rates.

❓ Are public phone booths still common in China?

✔️ No. Public phone booths are rare today.
Some train stations and airports still offer paid phones, which accept coins or phone cards.

❓ Do hotel phone calls cost extra?

✔️ It depends on the hotel.
Some high-end hotels provide free domestic calls, while international calls are usually charged separately and may include service fees. Always confirm with the hotel reception.