okay... do tourist (and other short stay visas) need to go to the police station to register after they've arrived in Kunming? or does the hotel take care of such requirements?

what if KMG is not the original destination and the person is staying over for a few days before they go to their orig. dest? is registration still required at KMG.

anybody knows any source for authentic info?

thanks!

No need for intelligent guesses, you just need to read what you are filling up when you entered the country. The arrival card you fill up when you entered china, as well as any residence registration you will do, clearly states that you have to register within 72 hours.

In practice, kunming administration is relatively relax. If you are staying in an hotel for a week or so, no one will bother you, even if you are technically not following the rules. If you are staying more than that you should register.

If you are staying in a hotel you do not need to go the police station as the hotel takes care of your registration. At check in they are required to take your passport and they fill out the required forms for you. If you are staying with a friend or in a private residence then you need to go to the police station to register

When you stay at a hotel or guesthouse which is registered to receive foreign guests, your details are collected when you check in, and transmitted electronically to the police.
The problem would be if you are staying at a hotel etc which is not registered to receive foreigners.