To access Wikipedia from China, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is necessary. This requirement stems from China’s internet censorship policies, which restrict access to certain websites, including Wikipedia. By using a VPN, users in China can readily bypass these restrictions and gain access to Wikipedia.
VPN Life is operated by the SNI team, which has extensive experience living and conducting business in China. Our team members are based in various Chinese cities, including Tianjin, Suzhou, Yuyao, and Nanchang, where they use VPNs as part of their daily work and personal lives. In addition to these home bases, we also verify VPN connection stability across different network environments in major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xiamen during business trips.
Why Can’t I Access Wikipedia in China?
The exact reasons behind this blockage are not explicitly stated, but it is due to the Chinese government blocking access to Wikipedia services to maintain consistent information control. The Chinese government has no control over Wikipedia services outside of China. Attempting to visit “https://en.wikipedia.org/” on a computer usually results in a blocked access screen in the browser.
Four Effective Methods to Access Wikipedia in China
In China, accessing Wikipedia requires alternative approaches due to internet censorship. Here are four methods, each with varying levels of technical complexity:
- Use a VPN: The simplest and most user-friendly option for non-IT professionals is a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN conceals your real IP address, allowing you to bypass China’s internet censorship. By connecting to a server outside of China, you can access Wikipedia seamlessly. Detailed instructions on setting up a VPN are provided below.
- Use a Proxy Server: A proxy server acts as an intermediary, routing your requests to Wikipedia and delivering responses back to you. This method effectively circumvents internet censorship, though it requires some configuration.
- Use Shadowsocks: Shadowsocks, based on a SOCKS5 proxy, is another tool for bypassing internet restrictions. It involves setting up a Shadowsocks server within China and using a corresponding client to access Wikipedia.
- Change DNS: Altering your DNS settings to a reliable DNS provider can sometimes enable you to bypass certain blockades. This method involves adjusting your network settings to use a different DNS.
Each of these methods has its own set of advantages and technical requirements. For those unfamiliar with technical configurations, using a VPN is often the most straightforward solution.
How to Access Wikipedia in China by Using a VPN
To access and utilize Wikipedia from China, you need to follow three key steps. These steps ensure seamless access to the service even if you are in China.
STEP1. Register with 12vpn
To register with 12vpn, click the “Sign Up Now” button as shown below. After the price plan is shown, follow the instructions.
Additionally, you can get 30% off your purchase by using our site’s exclusive coupon code: nsspirit.
STEP2.Connect to a VPN server in a country where Wikipedia is accessible
After registering with 12vpn, download and launch the app. Next, connect to a server in a country where Wikipedia is accessible, such as the US or Japan.
Now, you can connect to a server in Osaka, Japan.
STEP3. Access and Use Wikipedia
With your VPN connection active, navigate to Wikipedia “https://en.wikipedia.org/”. You’ll be able to use Wikipedia just as you would in any unrestricted area.
The Best VPN Services for Accessing Wikipedia in China
Here are some excellent VPN services we recommend.
| 12vpn | UCSS | ExpressVPN | |
| Prices | 1-Month: $27.99 12-Months: $12.50/month 24-Months: $10.00/month | UCSS Lite 1-Month: $29.00 UCSS 3-Months: $12.00-$70.00/month UCSS 12-Months: $9.00-$52.50/month | 1-Month: $12.95 12-Months: $6.67/month 24-Months: $4.99/month |
| Money-back Guarantee | 14 days | None | 30 days |
| Countries | 31 | 16+ | 105 |
| Servers | Not disclosed | Not disclosed | 3,000+ |
| Maximum devices supported | 6 | 3 | 8 |
| Connection Speed | Ultra Fast | Ultra Fast | Fast |
| Security | AES-256 | AES-256 Kill Switch | AES-256 Kill Switch |
| Privacy | No-logging | No-logging (Excluding Korean servers) | No-logging |
| Support | 24/7 Email Support | 24/7 Email Support | 24/7 Live Chat Support |
12vpn (12vpx): VPN Renowned for Stability in China [Subscription Available from China!]
| Prices (standard plan) | 1-Month: $27.99 12-Months: $12.50/month 24-Months: $10.00/month |
| Money-back Guarantee | 14 days |
| Countries | 31 |
| Servers | Not disclosed |
| Maximum devices supported | 6 |
12vpn is a VPN provider based in the Netherlands, particularly well-regarded for its reliable performance for users in China. A key strength is its dedicated link, allowing users to subscribe even from within China.
- Quick to adapt to internet restrictions in China
- Responsive customer support
- Can subscribe from within China via a dedicated link
- Generous 6 simultaneous connections
- Easy to operate via Google Chrome extension
- Relatively expensive
- Primarily need a VPN for use in China.
\14 day Money-Back Guarantee/
UCSS: VPN Optimized for China with a Reputation for High-Speed Connections
| Prices (standard plan) | UCSS Lite 1-Month: $29.00 UCSS 3-Months: $12.00-$70.00/month UCSS 12-Months: $9.00-$52.50/month |
| Money-back Guarantee | None |
| Countries | 16+ |
| Servers | Not disclosed |
| Maximum devices supported | 3 |
UCSS is a service operated by a South Korea-based security company, functioning more accurately as a Shadowsocks provider rather than a traditional VPN. It is reportedly managed by a multinational team of experts.
The service is specifically optimized for use in internet-restricted environments like China, priding itself on delivering stable connections and high-speed communication.
- Fast and stable connections
- Optimized for use in China
- High level of security
- Compatible with a wide range of devices
- Relatively expensive
- Data usage limits apply
- No money-back guarantee or free trial
- Fewer simultaneous connections
- Want to fully enjoy streaming services like Netflix while in China.
- Are looking to play online games in China without interruption.
- Require a consistently stable internet connection for work in China.
＼Achieve a Seamless Online Experience!／
ExpressVPN: Ultra-fast Internet Speeds
| Prices | 1-Month: $12.95 12-Months: $6.67/month 24-Months: $4.99/month |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days |
| Countries | 105 |
| Servers | 3,000+ |
| Maximum devices supported | 8 |
ExpressVPN offers some of the fastest internet speeds among the VPNs we have used. All VPNs may slow down your internet connection, but ExpressVPN is one of the fastest, and you rarely notice the difference. Review sites consistently rank ExpressVPN as one of the fastest VPNs. Additionally, with over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, you have a wide choice of countries to change IP addresses to. Real humans are available 24-hour live chat support to help you with setup and troubleshooting. ExpressVPN also has a no-log policy.
After you’ve registered with ExpressVPN, you can use it to easily browse the internet just by downloading their app.
- Excellent speed and stability
- Fast and user-friendly app
- Strict no-logs policy
- Wide range of server countries
- Accepts Bitcoin payments
- Slightly more expensive than competitors
- Place a high importance on internet speed
\30 day Money-Back Guarantee/
FAQ
What is a VPN?
A VPN, also known as a Virtual Private Network, serves as a fortified bridge between your device and the vast world of the internet. It is a shield that protects your online activities and is widely used to ensure confidentiality and security.>> What is a VPN?
What else can a VPN be used for?
In addition to bypassing geographical content restrictions like accessing to Wikipedia in china, a VPN can also enhance your online privacy and security. Furthermore, it can be used to save money on subscription services like YouTube Premium and Netflix by allowing you to subscribe from regions where prices are lower. >>VPN Use Cases
Is it legal to use a VPN in China?
The use of a VPN may also be restricted by Chinese regulations and policies, so it needs to be used with caution. But as far as individuals are concerned, it is unlikely that they will be caught if they are just accessing the internet across borders, playing games or browsing the web for personal use. >> Is it Legal to Use a VPN in China?
Can I use a free VPN?
We recommend opting for paid VPN services for better privacy and security. Free VPNs may not provide clear information on how they manage log traffic data, and there’s a higher chance they might track your data. Paid VPNs typically offer superior performance, more features, and enhanced security.>> Free VPNs vs. Paid VPNs
Does using a VPN to access Wikipedia cause real-time data delays?
It’s true that VPNs, by their nature, add an additional step in accessing websites, which can impact connection speed. However, a high-quality VPN service can minimize this effect significantly, providing a nearly latency-free internet experience. To avoid potential delays, it’s advisable to select a VPN known for its excellent speed and performance, as indicated by positive user feedback and high ratings. This way, you can ensure a smoother browsing experience, even when accessing sites like Wikipedia from restricted regions.
Conclusion
- By using a VPN, you can get access and use Wikipedia in China.
- How to Access Wikipedia in China: [Register with a VPN >> Download and Launch the App and Connect to a VPN server in a country where Wikipedia is accessible, such as the US or Japan >>Access and Use Wikipedia.
