Originally Posted by jiejie

Um, no you probably wouldn't if the local constabulary might find it in their hearts to fine your @ss. The rule may be stupid but it is their rule. Of the many fights in China one can pick, this wouldn't be one of my choices. And not all jurisdictions in China are this strict--many of them don't have a problem with foreigners on residence permits, returning to their previously-registered China addresses after a trip, skipping the re-registration. Beijing in general and Wudaokou in particular have always been more anal-retentive about the registration and re-registration after every trip. It's been this way for years. Living over in a heavy-foreigner Chaoyang District area of the CBD, my local paichusuo was OK with skipping the re-registering unless on a tourist or business visa....or would allow phoning in one's return rather than showing up in person.