Visitors and residents alike use a China VPN as it becomes an increasingly invaluable tool, allowing them to maintain restricted online content.
That's why you're going to need a working VPN for China in order to browse and use the internet like you normally want. This even includes buying Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency. This means you won't be able to access your favorite websites, services, or apps while there. The country is one of the most restrictive in terms of internet censorship.