As Chinese pop culture explodes globally, one platform stands at the center of the action: Bilibili. Often dubbed the “YouTube of China,” it has become the go-to destination for anime, gaming, and creative content. But for fans in the United States, a burning question remains: Can you make a Bilibili account in the US?
The short answer is yes. While the platform is designed for a Chinese audience, US users can absolutely create an account to access exclusive donghua (Chinese anime), join fandoms, and experience features you won’t find anywhere else. This guide will walk you through the steps, help you navigate the language barrier, and explain how to verify your account from the US.
What is Bilibili and Why is it Popular Among US Users?
Bilibili is a leading video-sharing platform in China that has rapidly grown a massive international following. Unlike standard video sites, it is built on a strong community-driven model that appeals to younger generations.
Overview of Bilibili’s Features and Culture
The platform offers a mix of video sharing, live streaming, and gaming, but it is best known for its anime content, or donghua. Its most famous feature is “danmaku” (bullet comments)—real-time user comments that scroll across the screen over the video, creating a shared viewing experience. The site also features a unique leveling system and highly interactive communities.
Why US Users Are Increasingly Interested
Why are Americans flocking to a Chinese site? It largely comes down to exclusive access. Many US users join to discover untranslated or exclusive Chinese content that isn’t available on Western platforms. It creates a bridge to niche fandoms and creator communities that are thriving in China.
Can You Create a Bilibili Account in the US?
Yes, registration from the US is entirely possible, though it requires a few extra steps compared to signing up for YouTube or Netflix. You will need to navigate verification hurdles and language settings.
How to Sign Up for Bilibili from the US: Step-by-Step
- Choose Your Method: You can register using an email address, an international phone number, or third-party logins like WeChat or Google.
- Phone Verification: This is often the trickiest part. While Bilibili accepts international numbers, US phone numbers sometimes fail to receive the SMS code. If your carrier doesn’t work, alternatives like Google Voice often succeed.
- Account Setup: Once you enter your details, you will need to solve a CAPTCHA, confirm your identity via SMS/email, and choose a unique username.
- Settings: After signing up, it is recommended to set your interface language (if available) and enable two-step verification for security.
What Obstacles Might US Users Face?
- The Language Barrier: The interface is primarily in Chinese.
- Solution: Use browser translation extensions (like Google Translate) to navigate menus.
- SMS Failures: As mentioned, verification codes may not arrive immediately.
- Solution: Retry the SMS request later or switch to a different number provider.
- Regional Restrictions: Some content may be blocked.
- Solution: A VPN can help access geo-restricted videos.
Understanding Bilibili’s Verification System: Invite Codes and Quizzes
One of Bilibili’s most unique aspects is its verification process, designed to maintain a high-quality community.
How Bilibili’s Verification Works
To become a full member, you must pass a verification check. There are two main paths:
- Invite Code: You can bypass the test if you receive an invite code from a current Level 5+ user. These are notoriously hard to get.
- The Membership Quiz: Most users must pass a quiz covering etiquette, site rules, and fandom knowledge.
The challenge for US users is that the quiz is only in Chinese.
How to Pass the Bilibili Quiz as a Non-Chinese Speaker
Don’t let the language stop you. Here is how US users succeed:
- Translation Tools: Use apps like Google Lens or Papago to translate the image-based questions on your screen in real-time.
- Community Cheat Sheets: Online communities on Reddit and Discord frequently share answer keys and translated guides for the current question pool.
- Focus on Basics: Many questions cover basic safety and platform behavior, which are easier to guess or translate.
What Features Does Verification Unlock?
You might be wondering if this effort is worth it. Verification (Level 1+) unlocks:
- Danmaku: The ability to post bullet comments.
- Interaction: Access to coins, likes, and the ability to level up your account.
Note: Unverified users (Level 0) can still watch most videos and purchase premium memberships.
Accessing Bilibili Content from the US
What Can US Users Watch and Do?
- Global Content: Most user-generated videos (vlogs, gaming, creative edits) are globally accessible without restriction.
- Geo-Blocked Content: Some licensed anime, live streams, and premium series may be restricted to China.
- Premium Access: You can purchase a “Big Member” (Premium) subscription using international credit cards or PayPal. Some users also utilize Alipay or WeChat Pay workarounds.
- Engagement: Even without full access, you can subscribe to channels, like videos, and follow your favorite creators.
Best Practices and Tips for Bilibili Users in the US
To get the most out of your experience:
- Improve Navigation: Always keep a browser translation tool active or use auto-subtitles features where possible.
- Join a Community: Explore Bilibili threads on Reddit or Discord to find invite codes or help with specific errors.
- Security: Verify your email immediately, use a strong password, and avoid downloading unofficial apps that might compromise your data. Stay updated on Bilibili’s security policies for overseas accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a US phone number to register on Bilibili?
Yes, but SMS delivery can be inconsistent depending on your carrier. If it fails, try Google Voice or email registration where available.
Do I need verification to watch videos or buy premium?
No. Verification is mainly for unlocking social features like commenting. You can watch most videos as a Level 0 user.
How do I change the language to English?
Bilibili does not have a full native English interface. You must use browser translation tools on desktop or auto-translate features in the app.
Is using a VPN necessary for US users?
It is not mandatory for standard user-generated content, but it is helpful if you want to watch geo-restricted anime or specific live events.
What should I do if I’m stuck on the verification quiz?
Seek help from international communities. Many users on Discord or Reddit can provide updated answer keys or even an invite code.
