I'm planning a Taiwan trip around November-December. It's basically a 3+(very loose 4) where you can do "important things", similar to the Hong Kong one. https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/34535569-post604.html

I still don't think there's a way I can get a China visa by then so I will probably put off China for another year.

There is an update that APEC business card holders don't need visas anymore: Notice on Allowing entry to China of APEC Business Travel Card holders and Study Residence Permit holders and on Updating International Student Visa application requirements. I do have an APEC business card but it is from the US who is a transitional member in the scheme so wouldn't qualify for visa-free access. Oh bother.