[The Gaijin]

Hey Guys. In Japan now with a little more time and money on my hands..

I would love to see China and have been reading Rick`s travel posts.

Any advise about traveling on the cheap to maybe Shangahi, Bejing, Xi`an and the south?? I have friends in Hong Kong and would like to end up there..

Using local guides soulds like a good idea, how is train travel? Otherwise, I cannot speak a word, but read many of the characters and can usually make my way around a menu or write out directions in Chinese.

Thanks.