Yep, I got a nice little China Mobile flip phone for 500RMB when there which came preloaded with 100RMB credit while over there, never needed top it up.
Used it to call home a couple of times too. Probably the easiest route to go down. Doest work here though, but will take it with me when I go back in June, really really handy to have a phone over there to keep in contact with your lady if you are out and about exploring.