How to Watch Netflix in China (2024 Edition)

If you’re in China and trying to binge-watch the latest Netflix hit, you’ve probably realized the unfortunate reality: Netflix is completely blocked in the country. But don’t worry, there’s a way around it! Welcome to the magical world of VPNs, where we break through China’s digital walls and return to your favorite shows. This guide will show you how to watch Neflix in China exactly that. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Why You Need a VPN to Watch Netflix in China

China has a little something called the Great Firewall. It’s like a giant virtual wall that blocks access to certain international websites, including Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more. Why? The government controls the content people can access. If it’s not “approved,” it’s blocked. Yeah, total buzzkill, right?

Here’s where a VPN swoops in like a superhero. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows you to bypass these restrictions by changing your IP address. In simple terms, it tricks Netflix into thinking you’re chilling on a couch in the U.S., UK, or wherever your favorite Netflix library is from, not stuck behind China’s firewall.

Top VPN Picks to Unblock Netflix in China

• ExpressVPN: Best for speed and reliable streaming.
• NordVPN: Great for unblocking with obfuscated servers.
• Surfshark: Affordable and still powerful.
• VyprVPN: Known for its stealth Chameleon protocol.
• ProtonVPN: Privacy-first and works well in China.

The Struggles of Using a VPN for Netflix in China

Let’s be real: using a VPN in China isn’t exactly smooth sailing. The Great Firewall doesn’t just block websites; it also actively targets VPNs. Yes, you read that right. Many VPNs don’t work in China, and those that do can sometimes get blocked or slowed down. Here are some common struggles:

1. Blocked VPNs: The Chinese government continuously works to block VPNs. Even popular options like NordVPN or ExpressVPN might get blocked, requiring users to try multiple servers until they find one that works.
2. Speed Issues: VPNs naturally slow down your connection since your traffic is rerouted through another server (often halfway across the world). This can turn your Netflix binge into a buffering nightmare—especially if you’re trying to stream in HD or 4K. Nobody has time for that!
3. VPNs Come and Go: Even if a VPN works today, there’s no guarantee it will still work tomorrow. The government is always adapting, meaning VPN services are in a constant game of cat and mouse to stay unblocked.

But don’t panic! With a bit of patience and the right VPN provider, you can still get through these hurdles and stream away.

How a VPN Works to Unblock Netflix in China

When you use a VPN, it hides your real IP address and makes it appear as if you’re accessing the internet from a different location—say, Los Angeles, London, or Tokyo. This fools Netflix into thinking you’re somewhere outside China, thus granting you access to all the Netflix goodness.

The VPN also encrypts your connection, keeping it private and safe from government surveillance or snooping by your internet provider. But here’s the kicker: some VPNs have special features called obfuscated servers or stealth mode, which hide the fact that you’re using a VPN in the first place. This is key in China, where the government is constantly trying to block VPN traffic.

Top VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer this obfuscation technology, making them top choices for Netflix in China.

Tips for Streaming Netflix in China with a VPN

Using a VPN in China comes with a few challenges, but these tips will help you get the most out of your streaming experience:

1. Choose the Right Server: Not all servers are created equal! Pick a server located in a country with a large Netflix library, like the US, UK, or Japan. Some VPNs (like NordVPN) even offer servers specifically optimized for streaming.
2. Test Different Servers: VPN servers can get overloaded. If one server is slow or blocked, simply switch to another one. ExpressVPN is great at offering a variety of servers to choose from.
3. Enable the Kill Switch: A kill switch ensures that your internet connection is cut off if the VPN fails, so you’re not accidentally exposed to the Great Firewall. This can save you from suddenly losing access mid-episode!
4. Split Tunneling: Some VPNs, like Surfshark, offer a feature called split tunneling, which allows you to route Netflix traffic through the VPN while keeping other activities on your regular connection. This can help reduce lag and improve streaming speeds.
5. Stick to Wired Connections: If you’re experiencing slow speeds, try connecting directly to your router via Ethernet. This can significantly improve your VPN connection and reduce buffering.

Is Using a VPN for Netflix in China Legal?

Ah, the big question! Technically, using a VPN in China is illegal unless it’s government-approved. However, many people still use VPNs to access international content like Netflix without facing any penalties. The government mainly focuses on blocking the VPNs themselves, rather than hunting down individual users.

That said, it’s always a good idea to stick to trusted VPN providers that offer stealth servers to keep your VPN use hidden.

Alternatives to VPNs for Watching Netflix in China

If you’re not sold on using a VPN or are looking for an alternative, there are a few other ways you can access Netflix from within China:

1. Smart DNS: Unlike VPNs, Smart DNS services don’t encrypt your traffic or hide your IP address. Instead, they simply reroute certain types of traffic, like Netflix. While it won’t give you the privacy benefits of a VPN, it can still unblock Netflix. Some VPNs, like ExpressVPN, offer Smart DNS as part of their package.
2. Remote Desktop: Another option is to set up a remote desktop connection to a computer outside of China. Essentially, you’ll be watching Netflix on that computer and streaming it to your device in China. This method is a bit clunky but can work in a pinch.
3. Proxy Services: Proxies can also unblock Netflix, but they are generally slower and less secure than VPNs. Plus, Netflix has gotten pretty good at blocking most proxies.

To sum up, we hope this article can help you and solve your problem of experiencing all the most interesting content on Netflix in China. Don’t forget to follow and read our article about VPNs and technology daily. See you at VPN Station!