How to Access YouTube in China with a VPN

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

Why Can’t I Access YouTube in China?

The specific reasons for this blockage are not explicitly stated, but it is likely due to the Chinese government’s efforts to maintain strict control over information. Since the government cannot regulate YouTube content outside of China, they have blocked access to the platform within the country. When trying to visit “https://www.youtube.com/” on a computer in China, users typically encounter a screen indicating that access is blocked.

Four Effective Methods to Access YouTube in China

In China, accessing YouTube 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 YouTube 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 YouTube 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 YouTube.
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 YouTube in China by Using a VPN

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

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 ExpressVPN, 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 YouTube is accessible

After registering with ExpressVPN, download and launch the app. Next, connect to a server in a country where YouTube 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.

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

STEP3. Access and Use YouTube

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

The Best VPN Services for Accessing YouTube in China

Here are some excellent VPN services we recommend.

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