A couple of things to add:
-Download a few newbie episodes from Chinesepod.com (free)
-Goto the
Lama Temple on Beijing...the three story Buddha is jaw-dropping (and off the radar tourist wise for some reason)
-If you can get to the remote section of the great wall for a hike (simitai) you will be practically alone (relatively speaking)
-There is an antique market in Xian that is for locals...if you can find it it is a lot of fun
-Learn these phrases, reject the first/second and third prices offered, and practise a look on your face like they are INSANE for asking for that price and your spending power will double
"Woh Boo Yow" (I don't want it)
"Thai-gway" (too expensive...)
"Pee-yen ee dya" (Give it to me cheaper)..