How to Connect to Public WiFi in China (Without Getting Stuck on the Login Page)

If you’ve tried using public WiFi in China, you’ve probably experienced this: your phone shows full signal bars, you tap “Connect,” and… nothing happens. Or worse, you get stuck on a login page written entirely in Chinese, asking for your phone number, ID, or to scan some weird QR code 🌀.

Welcome to the wonderful (and slightly annoying) world of public WiFi in China. It’s everywhere, but actually connecting to it can be a surprisingly complicated adventure—especially for foreigners without a local SIM card or fluent Chinese.

Here’s everything you need to know to actually get online when you’re at airports, cafes, train stations, or anywhere else offering “free WiFi.”

1. Why Public WiFi in China Is Complicated

Due to cybersecurity regulations, most public WiFi networks in China require identity verification before granting internet access. This usually means:

• Verifying your phone number via SMS code
• Logging in with WeChat or Alipay
• Scanning a QR code (often in Chinese)
• Sometimes—even entering your passport info (yes, seriously 😅)

This is to ensure traceability of internet use, but for travelers, it can be a major headache.

2. What You’ll Usually See on the Login Page

Once you connect to a public WiFi network (like “CMCC” or “Airport_Free_WiFi”), you’ll usually be redirected to a Chinese-language login portal. Common login options include:

• 📱 Phone number (China mainland only)
• 💬 SMS code (sent to Chinese phone numbers only)
• 📷 QR code login via WeChat or Alipay
• 🔐 Some cafes/hotels may give you a password on request

If you only have an international SIM card, the SMS method usually won’t work.

3. So How Can Foreigners Actually Connect?

Here are your best options depending on where you are:

✈️ Airports

• Most Chinese airports offer free WiFi, but require SMS verification.
• Look for kiosks that print a temporary login code using your passport.
• Alternatively, ask an info desk—they’ll often give you a guest code.

☕ Cafes (like Starbucks or Luckin)

• Some ask for your phone number; others give out WiFi passwords at the counter.
• Don’t hesitate to ask: “请问WiFi密码是多少？(qǐng wèn WiFi mì mǎ shì duō shǎo?)”

🚆 Train & Subway Stations

• WiFi often provided by China Mobile (CMCC), but requires a local number or China Mobile SIM.
• These usually have low speeds and heavy filtering. Don’t expect Netflix.

🏨 Hotels

• Most hotels offer simple login with a room number or just a basic password.
• Some still require phone verification, so ask at the front desk for help.

4. QR Code Login via WeChat or Alipay

Sometimes, instead of entering a phone number, you’ll be asked to scan a QR code. This method works surprisingly well if:

• You already have a working WeChat or Alipay account
• Your WeChat isn’t set to “International Version” (some features won’t work)
• You’re connected to mobile data or another working WiFi to initiate the scan

After scanning, you’ll typically get redirected in-app to confirm access. Boom—you’re online.

5. Apps That Help (Sometimes)

There are apps that can help you find and auto-connect to free WiFi:

• WiFi Master Key (万能钥匙): Popular, but loaded with ads and mostly in Chinese
• Instabridge: Offers international WiFi access, but spotty in China
• WeChat WiFi: Some locations offer WiFi access via official brand WeChat accounts

These aren’t perfect, but they’re worth a try when you’re stuck.

6. Tips to Avoid Getting “Stuck” on the Login Page

• Turn off auto-connect for WiFi networks that don’t work—your phone might keep switching back
• Clear browser cache if the login page doesn’t load
• If the QR code won’t scan, try using a screenshot and scanning it from your photo gallery
• Switch to airplane mode, then back—this can sometimes trigger a fresh login page

7. Can You Use a VPN on Public WiFi?

Yes, but expect even more connection drops. Some public networks throttle VPN traffic. Always connect your VPN before joining public WiFi if you want more stable access.

Final Thoughts

Public WiFi in China can be a lifesaver—or a nightmare. But once you understand the system, it’s manageable. The key is preparation:

• Get a local SIM card if possible
• Install WeChat and/or Alipay early
• Don’t count on open networks working smoothly

And remember: sometimes it’s just easier to tether from your mobile plan. But if you’re determined to make public WiFi work—you now know the hacks 😉