I'm currently applying for a Chinese visa from home (UK) only getting mixed messages about whether I will have to arrange transport out of Hong Kong - where we fly in to on the 20th Jan - into China. We plan to spend 4-5 days in HK and 5 weeks travelling around mainland China before flying out of HK to Bankok...

STA (who we have booked flights/visas with) have said we have to have this arranged to get a Chinese visa i.e. train/flight out of HK, but after enquiring about a train from HK to Beijing with 'sundowners overland'I was informed that the Chinese consulate no longer required entry and exit details to issue visas. arghhh!!

I would much prefer to arrange it after we arrive in HK as is increadibly cheaper than trying to get an agent to do it on our behalf... Has anyone had any experience of this??

We weren't asked to produce any travel information this year when we got our Visa. The travel agent arranged it for us when we were in Hanoi. We were only allowed a 30 day Visa though so not sure how you would go on if you want to stay for 5 weeks. We travelled from shanghai to HK by sleeper train. The trains are good if you have the time as are the sleeper coaches but you need to book well in advance for the trains.
Jean

Thanks Jean

I actually contacted the Chinese embassy in UK and they advised:

"Please note that there is no requirement for the flight ticket and hotel booking for Tourist visa into Mainland China under this period. Yet, it may be required by the visa officer when they think it is necessary."

so looks like we won't have to worry about transport, etc thanks for the advice on the 30 day situation, I think we will limit our stay to this! how long were you China for, do you think 30 days will be enough to do a loop from Hong Kong -> Guilin -> Xian -> Beijing -> Shanghai ->HK??