Misdemeanor Arrest in US - Effect on Tourist Visa Application to China

I am planning to go to China next month. I have a misdemeanor arrest on my record from last year (2012) for public intoxication, (it is a non-violent crime that did not even require a court appearance and was $100 fine). If I answer yes on the visa application and explain the details of the arrest, will I automatically be denied a visa? If I check no on the application form, will a background check be run on me if everything else is in order. I have seen answers on the web going both ways. Is it better to be honest? I want to be honest, but I also don't want to be denied entry for something so small :(