I have an account in China. My company helped me set up so they can do direct deposit. However, I cannot get a credit card (which they said requiring a Chinese ID). I can apply for a debit card but I don't bother. I only set up Alipay linked with this bank account so I can pay for taxis, grocery, tickets etc. Interbank transfers are quite limited.
In general, I think it may not be worthwhile setting up a Chinese bank account unless you live there. By the way, as you are a US citizen, don't forget to report FBAR every year if you have a foreign account. It is not a big deal, but just don't forget to report your banking information to the US Treasury.