Can I obtain a Chinese visa before booking a hotel in China?

I will be staying in Hong Kong from 5-20 August 2011. I have already bought plane tickets to & from Hong & will be staying with a friend. During my stay in Hong Kong, I would like to visit China. However, I do not yet know exactly when & where I will be travelling in China. Is it possible to apply for a visa before booking hotel accomodation in China?