China travel 2025 must-know blocked apps

China is undoubtedly one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world for 2025. Social media trends clearly show that more and more people are traveling to China this year. But staying connected online in China might not be as easy as you think many of the apps we use every day may be blocked there.

This blog will guide you through which apps are restricted and why having a VPN is something you should definitely prepare before flying to China.👲

Popular Apps can’t use in China 2025🧱

1. Facebook / Messenger

Blocked since 2009 following the riots in Xinjiang, the Chinese government claimed that Facebook was used as a tool for communication and organizing protests. As a result, access to Facebook and all its affiliated platforms was shut down.

2. Instagram

Blocked in 2014 during the Hong Kong protests, photos and videos from the events were widely shared on Instagram. As a result, China blocked the platform to control the spread of content.

3. Twitter (X)

Blocked since 2009, the government viewed Twitter or X as an uncontrollable source of information and a platform used to spread ideas that opposed the state.

4. TikTok

Not officially blocked, but TikTok is inaccessible in mainland China. Instead, China has its own version called “Douyin” which is content-controlled by the government.

5. LINE

Blocked around 2015, as it is not a Chinese app and does not comply with local regulations. It was especially popular among tourists from Japan, Korea, and Thailand.

6. Google

It began in 2010 and was fully blocked in 2014 after Google refused to censor search results as requested by the government. As a result, all Google services including Gmail, Maps, YouTube, Drive, and Translate were blocked to restrict access to information.

7. Netflix

Never available in China from the beginning, as it did not comply with China’s censorship system and was not authorized to distribute content within the country.

8. Spotify

 Not directly available in China, as the country has its own local music platforms like QQ Music and NetEase Cloud Music, which allow the government to control content.

9. Reddit

Blocked in 2018 due to being an open community with a large amount of political content and criticism of China.

Why Are These Apps Blocked?🔍

China has strict policies on controlling information, news, and online content to maintain social and political stability. Many foreign apps are considered “uncontrollable” and are therefore banned entirely.

How Are Tourists Affected?🚧

- Users can’t access content from abroad
- Some information is restricted or altered
- Tourists who aren't prepared may feel "cut off" from the outside world upon arrival
- Unable to communicate with family (e.g., via LINE or Messenger)
- Can't navigate easily (Google Maps is unavailable)
- Can't look up restaurant or attraction reviews
- No access to email or work (Gmail is blocked)
- Can't share experiences on social media as usual

What Is BullVPN and How Can It Help?🛡️

BullVPN is a VPN service designed for users who want unrestricted internet access—even in countries with strict online censorship, such as China.

With BullVPN, you can:
- Change your device's location to appear as if you're in another country (e.g., Thailand, Japan, the U.S., etc.)
- Access apps that are blocked in China, such as LINE, Google, Facebook, Gmail, and more
- Use it across multiple platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even as a Chrome Extension
- Stay secure with encrypted connections no worries about being tracked or hacked on public Wi-Fi

✅Get started here: https://www.bullvpn.com/signup

Things to Know Before Using BullVPN in China⚠️

- Install BullVPN before traveling to China, as you won’t be able to download the app from the App Store or Play Store once you’re there.
- Download BullVPN : https://www.bullvpn.com/setup
- It’s recommended to sign up and purchase a plan in advance for smoother use upon arrival.
- Choose the right server (Thailand, Singapore, Japan) for the most stable connection.
- BullVPN has Thai-speaking support staff ready to help if you encounter connection issues in China, you can reach out anytime.
-While using a VPN in China is considered a “gray area” BullVPN is trusted by real users in Thailand and abroad, especially those who travel to China frequently. You can use it with confidence.

If you're planning a trip to China in 2025, don't forget to prepare for internet access. Many everyday apps might “disappear” the moment you arrive in China and a VPN is the simple solution that keeps you connected to the world as usual. 🌏🐮🩵