I have visited China often, and have discovered that it really matters which city you visit. Many of what they call second tier cities are not good destinations.
Spend some time in Shanghai, you’ll leave with a different opinion.
Been there a bunch of times, and while the large cities are worthwhile, I found Yunnan and the regions and many different peoples along the old Tea Horse Road fascinating. It’s my favorite part of China. My 10-year visa has also been reinstated and definitely I’ll go again and again. I have a home in a nearby Asian country too and travel frequently.
I recommend that everyone try to see China and understand its people. Leave politics at home.