Living
Mobile Phones
The mobile phone, or shouji, has become an indispensable part of Chinese daily life. Over 500 million people own one in China, making it the world’s largest mobile phone market. Signal strength is excellent in most parts of the country. Rural areas, tunnels, trains and even new subway lines are covered. Even if you plan on being in Beijing for only a short while, it’s a good idea to have a mobile at hand.
European visitors with GSM phones that use a SIM card are likely to be able to use their existing handset, as long as it is unlocked. North American travellers though, should be careful. Dual-band phones sold in the US and Canada are not compatible with local networks, so you need a tri or quad-band phone. A quick search online for your model or call to your provider should tell you.
If you don’t have a phone, don’t worry. Beijing’s markets are sure to provide more options than you need. Phone stores are scattered throughout the city, though larger shops, like those near Wanfujing, are more likely to have staff that speak English. Prices for new phones range from ¥300 to upwards of ¥3,000 for a smartphone or something gold-plated, diamond-encrusted, or otherwise blinged up. Used phones are a bit harder to find, but expat magazines and websites are a good bet. You can also try the Nurenjie area, which has a massive second-hand market where phones can cost as little as ¥40 or ¥50. When buying a phone, as with anything in China, make sure to keep the receipt. Also, make sure that your phone offers English language instructions.
European visitors with GSM phones that use a SIM card are likely to be able to use their existing handset, as long as it is unlocked. North American travellers though, should be careful. Dual-band phones sold in the US and Canada are not compatible with local networks, so you need a tri or quad-band phone. A quick search online for your model or call to your provider should tell you.
If you don’t have a phone, don’t worry. Beijing’s markets are sure to provide more options than you need. Phone stores are scattered throughout the city, though larger shops, like those near Wanfujing, are more likely to have staff that speak English. Prices for new phones range from ¥300 to upwards of ¥3,000 for a smartphone or something gold-plated, diamond-encrusted, or otherwise blinged up. Used phones are a bit harder to find, but expat magazines and websites are a good bet. You can also try the Nurenjie area, which has a massive second-hand market where phones can cost as little as ¥40 or ¥50. When buying a phone, as with anything in China, make sure to keep the receipt. Also, make sure that your phone offers English language instructions.
