📱How to Use Douyin Abroad (2026): It's Not TikTok
Updated 2026-07 · RiftVPN team
The problem
Overseas app stores only have TikTok; after installing the Chinese Douyin, content loads slowly, live streams won't play, or login fails.
Why it's blocked
Douyin (the Chinese version) and TikTok are two entirely separate, content-isolated products. Douyin's content servers mainly serve the mainland China network, so an overseas direct connection has high latency and some APIs are restricted. A back-to-China line restores Douyin's domestic loading speed and full functionality.
How to unlock Douyin in 3 steps
- 1
Create a free RiftVPN account (unlimited data): sign up with your email on the website or in the app.
- 2
Download the app: get RiftVPN from the App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play (Android); desktop users can install the Chrome extension.
- 3
Open RiftVPN, tap to connect the "Smart route to China", then reopen Douyin and refresh — it works normally.
FAQ
Is RiftVPN free?
Yes. You can use it free after signing up, with unlimited data and regional media unlocking included. VIP (from $1.99/mo) adds faster dedicated-line speed, an ad-free experience and other enhancements.
Will video stutter after connecting?
RiftVPN uses smart split-tunneling: only traffic to domestic apps takes the back-to-China line while everything else connects directly, minimizing impact on your local speed. If you hit stutter during peak hours, you can upgrade to a VIP dedicated line.
How do I download the Chinese Douyin abroad?
On iPhone you need a China-region Apple ID to download it from the App Store; on Android you can download the APK from Douyin's official site. After installing, using it together with a RiftVPN back-to-China line gives the best experience.
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