I'm in the middle of my trip in the mainland. It so far has surpassed my expectations.

The Air China lounge (CI contracts Air China for ground services and lounge at PEK) was quite good. I don't see how you could call the experience subpar at all. Better than most lounges in North America and many in Europe too.

I'll do a short trip review when I finish, but really the experience hasn't been too bad at all. And the best part, is that cuz mass tourism isn't back yet, the crowds and queues are totally managable and the feeling is quite authentic.