In the pre-2024 TWOV thread, I floated the idea that booking a room at the dazhong would probably yield an entry permit, but this was based on logic, rather than any hard data.

On the other hand, we do have reports of short-checked luggage forcing entry permits. Things (I can think of) that could go wrong with this: 1. China Eastern refuses to short check; 2. border control directs you to the transit desk anyway and they arrange to have your bags transferred (so you can remain airside).