Beijing without visa
 

A couple of years ago (around 2002/03) I used to transfer at Beijing airport to Mongolia, and I could get out of the airport for less than 24 hs without a Chinese visa. I am German.

Does anyone know for sure if that is still possible?

Thanks in advance.

i really suggest you get a visa. since you've been to china before (as evidenced by your post in the china japan thread), you could probably get a pretty good visa.... then next time, a better visa... before you know it, you'll be in the 2-year club.

but, if you don't take this advice, i recommend that you contact air china. since they run a hub-type operation in beijing (and operate eurpope australia, which requires an overnight, i think), they should be able to provide you with the latest info (these policies change all the time).

And also be careful that some airlines will soimply not board you on a flight to China without a visa.

This is true. Every flight to Beijing I've taken, there have been visa checks prior to boarding at the gate.

OK, thanks for the advice. Not asking for a visa is simply a question of logistics and time; however, I will consider your advice, as I did not know that "successful" visits to China entitle you to a better visa in the future.

As for boarding aircrafts, I had these discussions several times, but always "won".

and, as i intimated above, i can't imagine that "losing" is possible, as long as you're not a complete pushover. but, you should still get the visa if time permits. if you can swing two years, you'll be good for the olympics!

good for you