Long shot, but with the power of the internet:

can you book a stay at the cheap Shanghai hotel, after having contacted an IHG club person in the city. Put their name on your reservation as guest, and have them check in, go to the room, and either enjoy a night, or leave the key.

If my (local) hotel here in California were cheap enough to be worth the points, I would do that for you. But I think it's closer to $100/night, so not worth it.