Using a UA MP award in December; and on my return from BKK to LAX I am flying CA BKK-PEK on J and PEK -LAX on F. BKK-PEK (CA980) arrives 6.30am and PEK-LAX (CA983) departs 9.00pm - almost a 15 hr stopover.

Will I be able to get a transit visa to do a quick daytime sightseeing trip in PEK? Do I need to call CA to request one?

The other option I have is taking TG BKK-PEK in F and connect on CA983 in J - however I have heard nightmarish stories regarding issues with interlining bags in PEK - any truth to this? Will have to collect and recheck my bags in PEK

Thanks
RJK