How much is the cost for Visa to enter China and can I pay by personal check?

You don't need a visa for Hong Kong, but you need a double entry visa for Shanghai and Beijing. You will stop in two ports: Shanghai and Beijing within Mainland China, so you need a double entry tourist visa.

It costs US$ 140. The personal check is not accepted by China Consulate in New York, the consulate accepts money order, company check, Master Card or Visa Card only. Cash payment or other forms of payment are not accepted. Money order or company check should be made payable to "Chinese Consulate General in New York".