dhammer's fee problem isn't unusual but that's his home bank's fee schedule, which should have been thoroughly checked out before leaving home. Banks in China don't normally levy additional fees on cards not their own. Some western banks have agreements with some big Chinese banks which can lower or eliminate fees, so find that out also. Remember that although ATM withdrawals often come with fees, the currency exchange rate itself is usually about as advantageous as you'll find, compared to other methods.

And as for getting Chinese currency before you leave home, you usually cannot unless "home" is HKG or a few other places in Asia--Chinese RMB is not a freely convertible currency. And if you can locate some, the exchange rate offered is generally preposterous. If ATM fees bother you, it's best to bring some crisp clean notes (USD, Euro 100's or similar) and just exchange them at one of the airport bank counters in the arrival hall. The rate and fees will be reasonable.