I wish to travel to Shenzhen in 6 weeks to visit a friend who is a Chinese resident. After visiting the embassy I was told I needed to provide a copy of air tickets and hotel booking. Air tickets are no problem however I am used to only booking the first few nights of accommodation and then deciding where I would like to go from there when travelling. It is a shame it seems I cannot travel freely. If I find my hotel is good after I arrive I will book more nights, if it is not up to standard I wish to have the freedom to move to another hotel or hostel. My question is, is a hotel booking absolutely a strict requirement for a tourist visa? My friend has told me I can stay with them in Shenzhen if I wish but I prefer no to bother them. My second question is, is it possible to stay with a friend instead of at a hotel and if so, what information should I provide to the embassy?

Thank you so much for your time with this complex matter.