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How to Access Instagram in China with a VPN

To access Instagram 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 Instagram. By using a VPN, users in China can readily bypass these restrictions and gain access to Instagram.

How to Access to Instagram in China:
  1. Register with a VPN (We highly recommend )
  2. Download and Launch the App and Connect to a VPN server in a country where Instagram is accessible, such as the US or Japan.
  3. Access and Use Instagram
The Best VPN Services for Accessing Instagram in China
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Why Can’t I Access Instagram in China?

The exact reasons behind this blockage are not explicitly stated but this is because the Chinese government has blocked access to the SNS in order to control the speech in the SNS (the Chinese government cannot control the SNS outside of China). Attempting to visit “https://www.instagram.com/” on a computer usually results in a blocked access screen in the browser.

Four Effective Methods to Access Instagram in China

In China, accessing Instagram requires alternative approaches due to internet censorship. Here are four methods, each with varying levels of technical complexity:

  1. 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 Instagram seamlessly. Detailed instructions on setting up a VPN are provided below.
  2. Use a Proxy Server: A proxy server acts as an intermediary, routing your requests to Instagram and delivering responses back to you. This method effectively circumvents internet censorship, though it requires some configuration.
  3. 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 Instagram.
  4. 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 to Instagram in China by Using a VPN

To access and utilize Instagram from China, you need to follow three key steps. These steps ensure seamless access to the service even if you are in China.

How to Access to Instagram in China:
  1. Register with a VPN (We highly recommend )
  2. Download and Launch the App and Connect to a VPN server in a country where Instagram is accessible, such as the US or Japan.
  3. Access and Use Instagram

ExpressVPN has some of the fastest internet speeds of 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. So, using ExpressVPN, you can enjoy TV programs normally available only in other countries without a noticeable difference in speed. After you’ve registered with ExpressVPN, you can easily browse the internet using ExpressVPN just by downloading their app.

STEP1. Register with ExpressVPN

To register with , click the “Get ExpressVPN Today” button as shown below. After the price plan is shown, follow the instructions.

STEP2.Connect to a VPN server in a country where Instagram is accessible

After registering with ExpressVPN, download and launch the app. Next, connect to a server in a country where Instagram is accessible, such as the US or Japan.

When connecting to a US server, click “…” in the app and type “United States” in the search box. Select a server and click the power icon in the middle.

expressvpn-in-the-us

Now, you can connect to a server in the US.

expressvpn-in-the-us

STEP3. Access and Use Instagram

With your VPN connection active, navigate to Instagram “https://www.instagram.com/”. You’ll be able to use Instagram just as you would in any unrestricted area.

The Best VPN Services for Accessing Instagram in China

Here are some excellent VPN services we recommend.

Prices1-Month: $12.95
6-Months: $9.99/month
12-Months: $6.67/month
1-Month: $11.99
12-Months: $4.99/month
24-Months: $3.99/month
1-Month: $12.95
12-Months: $3.99/month
24-Months: $2.39/month
Money-back Guarantee30 days30 days30 days
Countries10560100
Servers3,000+5,800+3,200+
Maximum devices supported810Unlimited
Connection SpeedUltra FastFastFast
SecurityAES-256
Kill Switch
AES-256
Kill Switch
AES-256
Kill Switch
PrivacyNo-loggingNo-loggingNo-logging
Support24/7 Live Chat Support24/7 Live Chat Support24/7 Live Chat Support

ExpressVPN: Ultra-fast Internet Speeds

Top page of ExpressVPN
Prices
1-Month: $12.95
6-Months: $9.99/month
12-Months: $6.67/month
Money-back Guarantee30 days
Countries105
Servers3,000+
Maximum devices supported8

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.

Ideal for those who:
  • Place a high importance on internet speed

\30 day Money-Back Guarantee/

NordVPN:  The Ultimate Balance of Price and Internet Speed

Top page of NordVPN
Prices (standard plan)1-Month: $11.99
12-Months: $4.99/month
24-Months: $3.99/month
Money-back Guarantee30 days
Countries60
Servers5,800+
Maximum devices supported10

NordVPN’s excellent service, and balance of price, internet speed, servers, and countries, has allowed it to gain the greatest market share in the world. Overall, NordVPN consistently receives great reviews from leading experts. NordVPN has more than 5,800 servers in 60 countries, so you also have a lot of choices for which country to change your IP address to. You can et help and advice from our friendly customer support team through email or live chat for your 24/7. And NordVPN also has a no-log policy.

After you’ve registered, you can easily browse the internet using NordVPN just by downloading their app.

Ideal for those who:
  • Want to balance price and internet speed

\30 day Money-Back Guarantee/

Surfshark: Impressive Performance with a Lower Price

top page or surfsharkvpn
Prices (standard plan)1-Month: $12.95
12-Months: $3.99/month
24-Months: $2.39/month
Money-back Guarantee30 days
Countries100
Servers3,200+
Maximum devices supportedUnlimited

Surfshark offers impressive performance with a lower price. You can get Surfshark much cheaper than other services if you apply for the 24-month plan. Furthermore, Surfshark has no connection limits. So, you and your family can connect and use all your devices simultaneously. Surfshark has more than 3,200 servers in 100 countries. Just like the other VPNs, you also have a lot of choices for which country to change your IP address to. Customer support experts are there for you 24/7, if you need a helping hand with them via live chat or email. And SurfsharkVPN also has a no-log policy.

After you’ve registered, you can easily browse the internet using Surfshark by downloading their app.

Ideal for those:
  • Who are budget conscious and want to want to connect with lots of devices

\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 Instagram 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

What is the Chinese alternative to Instagram?

In China, the platform most similar to Instagram is WeChat (Weixin). This application enable users to chat, post, and interact with others online. However, it’s important to note that they are subject to significant government censorship and monitoring. To safeguard your internet activities and maintain privacy, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is recommended. This service can help protect your online communications from surveillance.

Does using a VPN to access Instagram 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 Instagram from restricted regions.

Conclusion

Conclusion
  • By using a VPN, you can get access and use Instagram in China.
  • How to Access to Instagram in China: [Register with a VPN >> Download and Launch the App and Connect to a VPN server in a country where Instagram is accessible, such as the US or Japan >>Access and Use Instagram
The Best VPN Services for Accessing Instagram in China
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Written By

VPN Life is managed and operated by a team of four members: one Japanese (administrator) who has been using VPNs since 2011, two Chinese members, and one Singaporean member. Our articles are written based on 'actual VPN usage experience' and 'global VPN information.

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