I agree with what Willy has stated in his post, but let's face it those that are visiting China as tourists are not ever going to know the real China. They are just touring and wanting to see those famous sites and places, that they have always heard about but haven't had the opportunity to see for themselves.
Those that are going to China to Visit there ladies are more interested in getting to know their ladies and are (or should be) a little more clued up on what to expect, and have some knowledge of the local customs and culture of the province/city they are visiting.
You don't necessarily need to embrace the Chinese culture and there customs, but you do need to respect them. As Willy said you should experience the different food dishes and normal family cuisine. Really find out what makes a normal family tick (your ladies family), and how they go about getting things done, and over coming family problems, ....normal family life in other words!!!
I keep seeing comments made about ''Face'' mostly from those that know little, or nothing about it. Face is basically in the mans domain, women have very little to do with Face, apart from there own self respect and family respect. If you are a decent man, and treat women and others with decency and respect and as you would expect others to treat you, then you, don't need to worry about anyone's Face, you have it covered.... Yes it is that simple, i have never given the Face thing a second thought, in all the time i was living and working in China and Hong Kong.
That's not to say i don't know about it, just that it is over emphasised on here, sometimes to the point of being ridiculous. If your a gentleman (or know how to be a gentleman) Then you will rarely if ever lose your lady her Face....
David.....