Thanks and I am a Candian citizen , the stay would be less than 24 hours, any thoughts as to whether AP would allow this as a return leg from Australia.

I would get the VISA if required however will admit I do nto knwo if that is easy or not. I assume from the number of people I know who have visited China it is easy enough (compared to Bhutan or somewhere more obscure).

Great input though, appreciate it.