Bilibili, a Chinese video sharing and streaming platform, has become increasingly popular among anime fans, gaming enthusiasts, and livestream viewers worldwide. Originally built for the Chinese market, this platform has expanded its global reach, attracting users from all around the world curious to explore its unique blend of pop culture and fan-driven content.
TL;DR
Yes, users in the United States can sign up for a Bilibili account, although certain features may be restricted or tailored for the Chinese market. International users can register using an email or a phone number, but content access, language settings, and payment options might be limited. Some videos require real-name verification, which could be difficult for non-Chinese residents. With the use of workarounds like VPNs, many US users find creative ways to access Bilibili more fully.
What Is Bilibili?
Bilibili, often nicknamed “B site” by its fans, is a major Chinese video platform that caters to youth-oriented content. It features a wide variety of media including:
- Anime
- Esports and gaming livestreams
- User-generated content and vlogs
- Music videos and dance covers
- Creative and educational content
Bilibili distinguishes itself from platforms like YouTube by fostering interactive features like bullet comments, known as danmu, which appear over the video in real-time and create a shared viewing experience. This unique aspect is a key part of its community-driven ecosystem.
Can You Create a Bilibili Account in the US?
Yes, an account can be created from the United States, but it’s important to be aware of a few constraints. Bilibili does not block access based on geo-location, meaning you can visit and use the site or app without needing a VPN just to register. However, the platform is primarily designed for Chinese users, and this may introduce several issues for foreign users.
To create a Bilibili account from the US, users have two main options:
- Email registration
- Phone number registration
While email registration is typically straightforward, phone verification often requires a Chinese phone number for complete verification and feature access such as commenting or uploading content.
Because the default interface is in Chinese, new users may find navigation a challenge. While Bilibili launched an international version of the app (called “Bilibili Comics” and other variations), these versions have limited content compared to the original Chinese-language platform.
What Are the Limitations for US Users?
Although account creation is feasible, there are some hurdles that American users may face when using Bilibili:
- Language Barrier: The main site and most videos are entirely in Mandarin with little to no English subtitles. Some fan-subbed content exists, but this is inconsistent.
- Content Restrictions: Select content, especially copyrighted anime and movies, is region-locked and only viewable in Mainland China.
- Real-name Verification: Certain features, like livestreaming, commenting, or participating in specific community spaces, require real-name verification tied to a Chinese national ID. This is a requirement from the Chinese government.
- Payment and Premium Services: Purchasing premium subscriptions or tipping creators through the platform is difficult for overseas users, particularly if a Chinese payment method is required.
Despite these challenges, many international users—particularly anime fans—continue to use Bilibili due to its early access to certain shows and exclusive content unavailable elsewhere.
Using a VPN to Enhance Access
Given some content is region-locked, users often consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access the platform as if they are located in China.
Important: While Bilibili does not appear to actively block international access using VPNs, this technique can be against its terms of service. Users should proceed with caution and know the potential risks of account suspension.
A quality VPN may also improve streaming performance if Bilibili’s servers are throttling international traffic.
Why Would Someone in the US Want a Bilibili Account?
There are several compelling reasons users outside of China might want to create a Bilibili account:
- Early anime releases before being licensed in the West
- Community-created music videos and covers from popular Chinese artists or idols
- Unique content trends not found on YouTube or Twitch
- Practice with the Chinese language for language learners
With access to content spanning a wide range of niches and fandoms, Bilibili holds cultural and educational value for curious international audiences.
Tips for Navigating Bilibili as an International User
Here are a few useful tips for enhancing your Bilibili experience from the United States:
- Use a browser translator: Tools like Google Translate can convert pages in real time. This is essential when navigating the site’s menu and uploading videos.
- Check international forums: Reddit communities and forums can help provide recommendations for which creators to follow or how to work around geo-blocks.
- Start with the mobile app: The mobile version tends to be more intuitive and has more accessible subtitles where available. It’s also easier to navigate for new users.
- Create playlists: If you don’t read Chinese fluently, creating personal playlists helps you keep track of content you like without relying on browsing through categories.
Potential Workarounds for Account Verification
Some enterprising users have found ways to access more features by:
- Using online SMS verification services to simulate a Chinese mobile number (though often unreliable).
- Asking friends or acquaintances in China for limited help with verification, such as using a shared account.
- Relying on basic accounts without verification to simply browse and view unlocked content.
Again, users should be mindful of privacy and account security when using unofficial methods.
Is Bilibili Planning a More Global Platform?
Bilibili has hinted at global expansion, having launched Bilibili Comics and invested in overseas anime licensing. However, the full video platform is still focused on the Chinese market and requires local ID verification for many of its social features.
Unless Bilibili launches an international version with broader support for English speakers, most global users will continue using the platform in a limited capacity.
FAQ: Making a Bilibili Account in the US
- Q: Can I register on Bilibili with a US phone number?
A: You can register, but certain verification steps might require a Chinese number for full access. - Q: Is Bilibili available in English?
A: The main site is in Chinese. The international versions have limited English content, mainly comics. - Q: Do I need a VPN to watch content on Bilibili?
A: Not for everything. However, specific shows and livestreams are geo-restricted and need a VPN to access. - Q: Is Bilibili safe to use from the US?
A: Yes, it’s a legitimate platform. But users should stay cautious about inputting personal data, especially via unofficial third-party tools. - Q: Are there premium plans available for international users?
A: Premium services are mostly targeted at Chinese users. Payment typically requires a Chinese bank account or Alipay/WeChat Pay.
In conclusion, while the Bilibili experience from the US is not seamless, users who are patient and curious can get a great deal of value from this culturally rich platform. With some effort and a few workarounds, exploring Bilibili can be a rewarding dive into the world of Chinese digital media and fandoms.