China IPTV: CCTV numbers, CCTV4 editions and CGTN language

Identify the service before checking a programme

CCTV's live directory lists general CCTV1, sports CCTV5, event service CCTV5+, news CCTV13 and other numbered services. It separately labels CCTV4's Asian, European and Americas editions. China Media Group's Yangshipin directory also lists CGTN language channels. These official labels are more useful than a broad China or CCTV package request.

Make the local viewing choice explicit

For a diaspora household, choose the CCTV4 edition intentionally; similar branding does not establish the same programme timing. For sport, add the fixture, date and commentary requirement instead of inferring every event from CCTV5 or an Olympics label. Mandarin, Cantonese or another spoken-language requirement belongs to the programme. A Chinese website menu and English CGTN branding do not prove alternate tracks on an unrelated CCTV stream. Ask about captions separately.

Check the programme, place and date

The directory contains Asia/Shanghai and Asia/Urumqi as reference identifiers. Give the actual viewing city and the time basis shown by the programme listing. For an international edition, retain its edition label and advertised date instead of assuming its timetable matches the domestic feed.

1. Copy the complete number, plus sign or regional edition.
2. Add programme/fixture and required spoken language.
3. State live, repeat or specific dated replay.
4. Check on-screen identity and the programme during the trial; a 4 K device does not certify the source.