If you’re traveling to China and hoping to stay connected with friends or communities on Discord, you might be in for a surprise. The country has some of the strictest internet censorship rules in the world, and many popular apps and websites are inaccessible once you’re behind the Great Firewall.
Fortunately, there’s a way around these restrictions: a Virtual Private Network (VPN). By using a VPN, you can route your internet traffic through a different country, hiding your actual location and allowing you to access sites that are normally restricted. In this article, we’ll break down how to use a VPN to unblock Discord in China, along with the best VPN options that reliably work in 2026.
Is Discord Banned in China?
If you’re wondering whether Discord is blocked in China, here’s the short answer: Yes.
Since 2018, China has blocked Discord as part of its broader internet censorship policies. This restriction falls under the Great Firewall—China’s advanced system that blocks or restricts foreign sites and apps, especially those used for communication and information-sharing.
Discord’s appeal lies in its privacy and versatility, allowing users to communicate through text, voice, and video in private channels. However, in China, that kind of uncensored communication is heavily restricted. This is also why WhatsApp is blocked in China.
Instead, the government promotes domestic alternatives like WeChat and Tencent QQ, which are easier to monitor and control.
So, if you’re trying to use Discord in China, you’ll find it blocked whether you’re using the app or accessing it through the website. But, don’t worry—there’s a reliable workaround, and it’s easier than you might think.
Using a service like NordVPN lets you connect to Discord in China and bypass the block with just a few steps. Let’s look at how it works and which VPNs make accessing Discord in China as easy as it gets in 2026.
Best VPNs to Use Discord in China in 2026
To unblock Discord in China, you’ll need a VPN that can consistently bypass the Great Firewall while maintaining high speed and security.
Based on extensive testing, here’s our top recommendation:
1. NordVPN
Not every VPN has the power to reliably connect from within China, but NordVPN does, and it stands out with a strong blend of security, speed, and content-unblocking capabilities.
NordVPN is our top recommendation for accessing Discord and other blocked apps in China. In addition to servers nearby in Japan and Hong Kong, you can choose from a wide selection of global locations to stay connected as if you’re back home.
This feature makes NordVPN a great choice for not only accessing Discord but also unblocking streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer from anywhere. If you’re American, you’ll be happy to know that you can count on NordVPN to change your location on YouTube TV.
NordVPN prioritizes security, making it ideal for those seeking privacy in restrictive regions. Its Meshnet feature lets you create an encrypted network between up to 60 devices, an excellent tool for securely sharing files if you’re traveling with colleagues or need access to files remotely.
Whether streaming in 4K, torrenting, or using data-intensive apps like Discord, NordVPN’s speed and stability mean smooth, uninterrupted connections.
With 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, NordVPN’s support team is available whenever you need assistance. At approximately $3 per month, it is a low-risk option for using Discord in China.
The icing on the cake is that you can use its Android VPN app for free for up to 7 days.
Pros
- Excellent speeds with NordLynx
- Obfuscated servers to bypass China’s firewall
- No-log policy, verified by third-party audits
- Additional tools like Meshnet
- Servers in several regions around China
- Affordable long-term plans
- Support for multiple platforms
Cons
- The user interface on mobile can be better
2. ExpressVPN
If you’re looking for a VPN that’s easy to use yet powerful enough to unblock Discord and other apps in China, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice. Its 3,000+ servers provide solid global coverage, including key locations near China, like Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan, which make it easier to access stable and fast connections.
For newcomers to VPNs, ExpressVPN’s intuitive app design and automated settings simplify the process, making it an excellent choice for first-time users or travelers in need of a straightforward solution to bypass China’s Great Firewall. It’s one of the best VPNs for Android that we’ve tested to date.
With parallel VPN connections, a kill switch, and leak protection, ExpressVPN ensures that your connection remains secure, even if there are disruptions. In addition to unblocking Discord, ExpressVPN has consistently succeeded in bypassing geo-restrictions on streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, making it an all-around solution for both communication and entertainment.
Although it’s slightly pricier, with plans starting at just over $5 per month, ExpressVPN’s quality customer support sets it apart. Available 24/7 via live chat and email, the support team provides quick and knowledgeable help, which is especially useful for anyone encountering connectivity issues.
Pros
- Simple and user-friendly apps
- Automatic obfuscation for bypassing restrictions
- TrustedServer technology for added security
- Fast speeds for streaming and browsing
- Reliable 24/7 customer support
- 30-day money-back policy
Cons
- Higher price than some competitors
- Slightly slower than NordVPN
3. Surfshark
For a budget-friendly VPN that works well in China, Surfshark is a top choice. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and offers the essential features needed to bypass restrictions.
Surfshark’s ease of use is a major perk for VPN beginners. With its simple interface and the “Quick Connect” function, connecting to a server is a breeze. Although it’s streamlined for convenience, Surfshark doesn’t compromise on privacy. It recently launched Incogni, a service that helps delete personal data held by data brokers, which is particularly helpful if you want to minimize data-tracking risks.
With over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries and unlimited device connections, Surfshark lets you connect as many devices as you need, making it a practical choice for families, friend groups, or even businesses looking to stay connected while using Discord in China.
What really sets Surfshark apart is its value. A long-term plan starts at around $2 per month and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. While there have been some minor issues with the kill switch on Windows in extreme cases, Surfshark’s overall performance and unbeatable price make it one of the best-budget VPNs.
Pros
- Unlimited device connections
- Simple, beginner-friendly interface
- Fast speeds with WireGuard protocol
- Affordable long-term pricing
- Effective data-deletion tool with Incogni
Cons
- Minor kill switch issues on Windows
- Unblocking power is not as strong as NordVPN
4. Astrill VPN
Astrill VPN is one of the most trusted VPNs for accessing content in China in 2026. In fact, it’s known for being one of the most reliable options in the country, sometimes surpassing even Surfshark and ExpressVPN when it comes to consistent access.
It packs some powerful technology specifically for bypassing restrictions. Starting with the Stealth VPN protocol, which is designed to mask VPN traffic, it helps users stay undetected in regions with strict censorship, thus unblocking Discord in China. Additionally, its OpenWeb protocol provides another secure and reliable option for accessing blocked sites and apps like Discord.
Based in the Seychelles Islands, Astrill benefits from a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no data retention laws. This allows it to enforce a strict no-logs policy and keep users completely anonymous. For users with multiple devices, Astrill’s unlimited simultaneous connections make it easy to protect everything, from laptops to mobile devices.
However, there’s a significant drawback: Astrill VPN’s pricing is on the higher end. The cheapest plan costs around $12.50 per month on a two-year subscription—much pricier than competitors like NordVPN.
Additionally, Astrill lacks a money-back guarantee, so users need to be confident in their choices before committing.
Pros
- Strong obfuscation with Stealth VPN
- Highly customizable features
- Effective for bypassing Chinese restrictions
- Split tunneling is available
Cons
- Pricey compared to the top VPNs
- Less polished mobile apps
5. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is a solid choice for privacy-conscious users wanting access to Discord in China. Known for its commitment to anonymity, Mullvad is uniquely set up to help users bypass the Great Firewall while protecting their privacy. Obfuscation support is key here, making it possible to mask your traffic so Chinese authorities can’t easily detect VPN use.
As discussed in our review of Mullvad, privacy is where the service really shines. Unlike most VPNs, Mullvad doesn’t require an email address to sign up. Instead, you receive an anonymous account number, making it one of the few truly anonymous VPNs on the market.
This approach, combined with AES-256 encryption and support for both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, ensures that your Discord usage and other online activity stay private and secure. While Mullvad’s MultiHop (Bridge Mode) is great for extra security when accessing Discord or other blocked apps, enabling it or other obfuscation settings might slow down your connection.
On the downside, Mullvad isn’t ideal for streaming; it doesn’t consistently unblock Netflix or BBC iPlayer.
Additionally, the 5-device limit might be restrictive if you plan to connect multiple devices at once. But if your main goal is a secure connection for Discord and browsing in China, Mullvad’s privacy-first approach and pay-as-you-go model (no long-term contracts required) could be a great fit at $5 a month.
If you’re having trouble making a choice, take the time to check out our NordVPN vs Mullvad showdown.
Pros
- Effective obfuscation for accessing Discord
- Anonymous account sign-up
- Strong security with AES-256 and MultiHop
- Flexible pay-as-you-go pricing
Cons
- Not ideal for unblocking streaming services
- Only 5 simultaneous connections allowed
How to Unblock Discord in China: Complete Tutorial
Using Discord freely in China requires a VPN that can bypass the Great Firewall reliably.
Here’s a step-by-step guide using NordVPN, one of the most effective tools for the job. Follow these steps to regain access to Discord while in China:
Subscribe to NordVPN
Visit the NordVPN website and choose a plan that suits your needs. NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to try it risk-free, which is handy if you’re uncertain about long-term use.
Complete the subscription process. Make sure to subscribe and download the app before you enter China, as the website may be blocked once you’re there.
Download and Install NordVPN
Download the NordVPN app on your preferred devices, including your laptop and mobile devices. NordVPN is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more, so you can access Discord on multiple devices while in China.
Enable Obfuscation for Extra Privacy
Open the NordVPN app and navigate to the settings. Enable the obfuscated servers option, which will disguise your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for China’s firewall to detect. This step is essential to maintain a secure, undetected connection to Discord.
Connect to a Nearby Server
For the best performance, select a server location close to China, like Japan, Hong Kong, or Singapore. This will help reduce latency and improve connection speed.
Tap Quick Connect or manually choose one of these nearby servers from the server list.
Open Discord
When you are connected to the VPN, open the Discord app or go to the website. You should now have full access to your chats, voice channels, and other Discord features as if you were outside China.
Test Connection and Adjust Settings if Needed
If you experience slow speeds, try switching to another nearby server or adjusting the VPN protocol to NordLynx for optimal speed. NordVPN’s support team is available 24/7 if you encounter any connectivity issues.
Conclusion
Accessing Discord in China can feel challenging, but with the right VPN, you can bypass restrictions and stay connected without worry. NordVPN, along with a few other top VPNs, makes it possible to access not only Discord but also other restricted apps and websites, all while keeping your data secure and your activity private.
Not just a gateway to open up Discord in China, a VPN also empowers you with more online freedom and peace of mind while traveling. So, whether you’re chatting with friends or staying connected with your online communities, a reliable VPN is the key to overcoming restrictions in China.