How to Use Instagram in China — Tested & Working in 2025

You can’t access Instagram in China due to the strict internet censorship laws enforced by the Great Firewall. Alongside Instagram, other popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube are also blocked.

The easiest way to unblock Instagram in China is with a VPN. However, the Great Firewall also blocks most VPNs, and many outdated guides online recommend VPNs that no longer work. My team and I tested 40+ VPNs and found the ones most reliable for using Instagram when visiting China.

Why You Need a VPN to Access Instagram in China

The Great Firewall of China blocks many popular social media sites and apps, including Instagram. This sophisticated censorship system inspects your internet traffic to identify the content or site you're trying to reach. Your connection is promptly blocked if it recognizes that you're attempting to access a restricted platform like Instagram.

A VPN encrypts your internet data, allowing you to use Instagram freely in China. This encryption disguises your internet traffic, making it indecipherable to the censorship system, thus allowing you to access platforms like Instagram.

However, the Great Firewall has evolved to detect and block VPN traffic. To counter this, advanced VPNs use obfuscation techniques, which make VPN traffic resemble regular internet traffic, allowing it to go undetected. Premium VPNs also protect your online privacy by following strict no-logs policies and using IP/DNS leak protection and a kill switch.

How to Install a VPN and Download Instagram From China

1. Choose a reliable VPN. Most VPN websites are blocked in China, so you should download a VPN before arriving.
2. Connect to a server. Check if your VPN offers servers optimized for use in China, or ask its customer support for recommendations. Servers nearby, are are usually the fastest.
3. Download Instagram. You can safely download Instagram from your app store.

FAQs on Unblocking Instagram in China

Is using Instagram in China legal?

Accessing Instagram in China violates Chinese internet regulations. However, there are no public reports of people being penalized for using a VPN to unblock Instagram. Remember to download your VPN before arriving in China, as most VPN websites are blocked there.

Why is Instagram blocked in China?

Instagram is blocked in China primarily because it enables the free flow of information and content sharing. This challenges the Chinese government's control over online discourse. However, you can still use Instagram in China with a premium VPN.

Do Chinese celebrities have Instagram accounts?

Yes, some Chinese celebrities do have Instagram accounts. Although the platform is blocked by the Great Firewall, there are still ways to access Instagram from China. However, most Chinese celebrities prefer to use domestic social media platforms like Weibo, WeChat, and Douyin to connect with their fan base.

Are there any alternatives to Instagram in China?

Yes, several alternatives to Instagram exist in China, such as Weibo, WeChat, and Douyin. While these platforms offer similar features for content sharing, social networking, and influencer marketing, they adhere to censorship laws. To use Instagram safely and without restrictions, get a reliable VPN for China.

Which sites are blocked in China?

China blocks access to numerous websites and online services, including popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Google. The government restricts access to these platforms to control information flow and maintain ideological conformity among its citizens. If you’re visiting China, you need a VPN to unblock your local accounts and to keep your data private from prying eyes.

Can I use a free VPN to access Instagram in China?

Probably not, since free VPNs usually don’t work in China. They also often lack the security and speed required for seamless browsing. Additionally, most VPN websites are blocked in the country, and there are only a few VPNs that can still be downloaded from within China.

Use Instagram in China in Minutes

Using a VPN is the simplest solution to retain access to your Instagram account when visiting China, enabling you to stay connected with friends and the world beyond the Great Firewall. Unfortunately, very few VPNs effectively work in the country.