How to Get a China IP Address From Anywhere [2024 Guide]

It's not an easy task to find a service that will give you a Chinese IP address. Aside from the IP, you need to make sure that your online privacy will also be protected with it. And during my research, I found that only VPNs can provide both of these things, but not all VPNs.

To begin with, a VPN is a simple app that can mask your current IP address behind one from China, making it look like you’re in the country. In addition, it encrypts your traffic, rendering it unreadable to third parties. What's best, there are multiple other features that protect your data with this new IP address.

Of all the 60+ VPNs I tested, I found that ExpressVPN is the best for getting China IP addresses. It has multiple high-speed servers in Hong Kong and keeps your data safe with robust privacy and security features. Plus, you can test it out risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Editors' Note: Expressvpn and this site are in the same ownership group.Get a China IP Address >>

Why You Need a VPN to Get a China IP Address

Chinese websites and apps, like banking apps, use your IP address to check your location. If you don’t have a Chinese IP address, they may restrict your access. They often do this to protect against fraud.

A VPN is a simple software tool that hides your current IP address behind one from another country, like China. It does this by redirecting all your internet traffic through its servers in China to make it look like you’re browsing from within the country. This way, you can use your banking app from your travel location without getting blocked.

It also protects you from hackers and trackers with advanced security features like military-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. Plus, all of the VPNs on the list safeguard your privacy with a strict no-logs policy, meaning that none of your online activity is recorded.

Best VPNs to Get a China IP Address From Anywhere in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Rotating China IPs to Reliably Use Essential Chinese Services

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested April 2024

Available on:

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN regularly rotates its China (via Hong Kong) IP addresses to reduce the risk of sites detecting VPN usage due to many requests from one address. This also helps to protect your privacy, as it makes it harder for your activity to be traced back to you. When testing, I was able to search on Baidu and browse Weibo securely with minimal load times.

Hong Kong is technically part of China, but it’s not within the Great Firewall

It also has excellent speeds for playing local games with your China IP address. During my tests, I played Genshin Impact for several hours without any slowdowns. That’s because ExpressVPN only dropped my speeds by 20% with minimal latency, which is impressive given the thousands of miles between me (in Nairobi) and China.

I tested multiple protocols, but ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway gave me the best speeds. It is designed for fast, lightweight connections, even over long distances. Plus, because it doesn’t contain all the bloat that other VPN protocols have, it’s far more efficient for your device's battery life. So, it’s great for keeping you protected while on the go.

My only issue with ExpressVPN is that it’s pricier than other VPNs — its lowest price is $6.67/month. However, it often runs promotions, and you can even get a few months free on long-term plans. You can also test ExpressVPN completely risk-free because every plan is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• TrustedServer technology. This technology ensures any data on a server only exists in RAM and is never written on a hard drive. All information is wiped with every reboot, so it’s great for protecting your privacy whether you’re browsing within the Great Firewall or beyond.
• Split tunneling. This feature allows you to route some traffic through the VPN while letting the rest access the internet through your regular unencrypted connection. I was able to optimize my torrenting speeds by only routing the torrenting client through the VPN, and it was really easy to do.
• Easy-to-use apps. ExpressVPN provides user-friendly apps suitable for beginners and tech-savvy users alike. You can easily connect to a server in Hong Kong and get a China IP address in just a few clicks. Plus, the app is pre-configured to automatically use the best protocol, so you don’t have to worry about changing any settings.
• Robust data leak protection. You’re safe from IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks on your China IP address. That’s because ExpressVPN routes your traffic through private DNS servers, so websites can’t trace your real location. It passed every DNS/IP/WebRTC leak test I threw its way.

2. CyberGhost — Impressive Speeds to Download Files Without Delays

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost offers consistently fast speeds, ideal for downloading large files without long waiting times. When I tested its virtual servers for China (via Singapore), my speeds dropped by less than 19%, very similar to my results with ExpressVPN. The average speed drop while using a VPN is about 25%, especially with far-away servers, so I was really impressed.

I only had to wait for 2 seconds for videos on Weibo to load

Despite only offering 1 virtual location for mainland China (Shenzhen, via Singapore), I never experienced any overcrowding. That’s because it has plenty of servers for this location to spread the load. When I tested it, I didn't experience any slowdowns. Plus, it offers additional servers across Hong Kong and Macau that are just as reliable for a China IP.

My only concern with CyberGhost is that it only offers a 14-day money-back guarantee with its monthly plan – the most expensive one. This doesn’t give you much time to make sure it works for you. However, longer plans offer an extended 45-day money-back guarantee and cost less per month.

I tested the authenticity of CyberGhost’s money-back guarantee to make sure it’s legit. I contacted 24/7 live chat support and requested a refund. After asking for some brief feedback, the agent immediately approved my request. I got my money back after 4 business days.

Useful Features

• WiFi protection. With this feature, CyberGhost automatically protects your data from threats when you use a China IP address while connected to public WiFi. This is super useful to have while you’re on vacation and relying on public WiFi hotspots.
• Block Content. CyberGhost blocks ads, trackers, and malware while you’re connected to a server. This blocked all the ads I came across on Baidu, so I was able to browse uninterrupted.
• Smart Rules. You can automate CyberGhost to connect to its Shenzhen, Hong Kong, or Macau locations when you open the app. It’s ideal if you’re gaming with your Chinese friends and want to start the game as soon as you get in from a long day at work. You can find this option by clicking on the Smart Rules tab in the app.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Customizable Settings for Better Speed or Security on Your China IP

Available on:

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Try Private Internet Access >

www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

PIA is highly customizable, letting you optimize either speed or security on a China IP. For example, you can choose between AES 256-bit or 128-bit encryption if you’re using the OpenVPN protocol. When testing, 128-bit encryption gave me slightly better speeds — but 256-bit encryption wasn’t too slow either.

You can use AES 128-bit encryption only with OpenVPN, but you’ll get plenty of other settings with WireGuard

It has many local servers to give you a China IP address reliably. This means that you can use your Chinese bank accounts and other essential services from anywhere without issues. When testing, I had an average speed loss of 22% and never came across a congested or slower-than-average server.

I did find PIA more complex to use compared to other VPNs on this list. All its customization options can be overwhelming, especially for VPN beginners. That said, the apps come already configured, so you don’t need to change anything if you don’t want to.

You can also test PIA for 30 days with its money-back guarantee. When I tested this, I got a refund after 5 business days.

Useful Features

• Customizable kill switch. On top of having a standard kill switch if your VPN disconnects unexpectedly, you can opt to allow your device to access the internet only when the VPN is turned on. It’s ideal for protecting your data while using a China IP address.
• Unlimited device connections. You can simultaneously connect as many devices as you want on the same account. This is ideal if you’re traveling and everyone back home wants to protect their devices as well.
• 24/7 customer support. PIA provides round-the-clock support to assist you any time you have issues using its China IP addresses. No matter where you go in the world, someone’s always awake and ready to help.

4. NordVPN — Beginner-Friendly Apps to Easily Connect and Start Using Your China IP Address

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN has a clean and intuitive dashboard that makes it easy to get a China IP address. When testing, it took me barely 5 minutes to download, install, and connect to the Hong Kong server. I also like that it offers plenty of support for its users — you can even request free remote installation.

If you’re a more visual person, use the world map feature to connect to a Chinese server

Although not as fast as CyberGhost, NordVPN also offers great speeds for gaming and downloading. I lost an average of 21% on its Hong Kong servers, which let me download a 5GB photos folder in less than 15 minutes during peak times.

My only concern is that its privacy policy states that it will comply with legal requests as long as they adhere to laws in Panama (its headquarters location). However, NordVPN doesn't log identifiable user data, meaning there's not much it can share anyway. For reference, it doesn't record the websites you visit, your browsing data, or your actual IP address.

I also like that it offers a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test out NordVPN’s China IP addresses without worry. If it’s not for you, claiming a refund is easy.

Useful Features

• Supports torrenting. NordVPN offers torrent-friendly servers in Hong Kong, so you can safely torrent with a China IP address.
• NordLynx protocol. This is NordVPN's proprietary protocol that uses WireGuard technology to provide even faster speeds while maintaining top-level security for your Chinese IP address.

5. Surfshark — CleanWeb Protects You From Ads and Trackers on Its China IPs

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfsharks CleanWeb feature guards your privacy by blocking ads and trackers while you’re using a China IP address. I was able to browse e-commerce sites, news articles, and blogs without annoying popups or worrying about my behavior being tracked.

This feature also protects you from malware, which is a good safety net to have

I also enjoyed fast connections on my China IP while using Surfshark. My speeds dropped by only 29% while connected to its virtual server for Macau SAR China. When testing, I could play games without any issues — I played Honor of Kings and Xiangqi easily.

I like that Surfshark offers an in-app speed test, but it’s disappointing that you can’t use it while connected. Fortunately, I never had any speed drop issues that would’ve prompted me to check the server was fast enough to work properly.

Long-term plans start at $2.89/month. It also has a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, you can get a refund through the 24/7 live chat.

Useful Features

• Kill switch. It works by disconnecting your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, ensuring your real IP isn't exposed accidentally.
• Unlimited connections. You can use Surfshark on as many devices as you want, and it won't affect your speeds while using a China IP address.

Editors' Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, Cyberghost and Expressvpn are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for a China IP Address

All the VPNs on my list offer servers for China, robust security and privacy features, and fast speeds for streaming, gaming, and downloading. Here are the features I looked for when testing.

• Global network with servers in China. Only a VPN with servers in China (or virtual servers for the country) can give you a local IP address. I looked for VPNs with multiple servers for China to ensure there was no overcrowding.
• Fast speeds. I only selected VPNs that provide fast enough speeds for doing any online activity without slowdowns. Speed drops of 20-30% are acceptable.
• Strict no-logs policy. I’ve only recommended VPNs that adhere to an audited no-logs policy. This ensures you never have to worry about your data being shared with third parties.
• Advanced security features. All the VPNs on my list offer military-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. This will reduce the risk of third parties intercepting your data and finding your true IP address.
• Device compatibility. I chose VPNs with native apps for all major operating systems and devices. That way, you can easily use a secure China IP address on most devices.
• Reliable customer support. A good VPN provides friendly and knowledgeable support either through live chat, email, or phone. It’s even better if it offers 24/7 support. This ensures that if you run into a problem on a China IP, it will be resolved quickly.

FAQs on How to Get a China IP Address With a VPN

Is it legal to use a China IP address?

Yes, it's legal to use a Chinese IP address. However, the way you get this IP address might be illegal in some countries. For example, although a VPN is the most reliable way to get a Chinese IP address, countries like China and Russia have restrictions or bans on VPN use. It’s also not legal to use a VPN for watching Chinese content that’s not licensed in your location. That goes against most streaming platforms’ T&Cs and can amount to copyright infringement.

Keep in mind that we do not condone breaking any laws. We believe that everyone has the right to online freedom, but please always consult your local laws regarding VPN usage in your country before using one.

Is there any other way to get a China IP address?

Yes, you can use a proxy server. However, you should know that proxies hide your IP address but don’t encrypt your connection, leaving you vulnerable to surveillance and online threats. The most reliable way to get a secure China IP address is by using a tried-and-tested VPN.

Plus, proxies tend to be unreliable. This is because they don’t have the resources to update their IP addresses frequently, so they’re easily blocked.

How do I test if my IP address has been changed to China?

You can use a location scanning tool to check your IP address. First, connect to a server for China, then open an IP lookup website, like vpnMentor’s IP checker. You have successfully obtained a China IP address if your location shows as China. If you're in China, check if the IP address on the test shows the VPN address and not yours.

Which VPNs can't give me a China IP address?

Any VPN provider without servers in China (whether virtual or physical) will be unable to give you a China IP address. Only a few premium VPNs can give you a China IP address reliably.

China heavily restricts VPNs, so it regularly shuts down physical servers in the mainland that haven’t been approved by the government. For this reason, you’ll typically find that reputable VPNs only offer China IP addresses via virtual servers or physical servers in Hong Kong or Macau.

Does a VPN let me watch Chinese TV abroad?

While a VPN can give you a China IP address, hypothetically letting you watch China TV abroad, you should know that this could lead to copyright infringement. My team and I don’t condone breaking copyright law. Therefore, be sure to follow all applicable rules and regulations while using a VPN for a China IP.

Can I use a free VPN to get a China IP address?

Yes, but I don’t recommend it. It's better to choose a premium VPN that has virtual servers for China and offers a money-back guarantee. Free VPNs often limit speed, bandwidth, and security, so they’re not reliable for providing consistent online protection. A lot of them also don't offer China IPs.

During my tests, I came across many free VPNs that pose privacy risks. Some sell users’ personal data to make money, and a few are just poorly disguised malware or scams.

Get a China IP Address in Minutes

Using a VPN is the easiest and most secure way to get a China IP. However, many don’t offer the speeds and security you need while using a China IP address. I’ve tested dozens of VPNs, and I’ve found a handful that offer servers for China, robust features, and good speeds.

My top recommendation for a China IP address is ExpressVPN. It has a network with multiple reliable and secure servers for China, great speeds, and a strict no-logs policy. Plus, it also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so that you can  test ExpressVPN completely risk-free.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs to get a China IP address…

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1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 49%!

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2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

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3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 83%!

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4

9.4 /10

9.4 Our Score

Save 69%!

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5

9.3 /10

9.3 Our Score

Save 85%!

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