what visa should I apply?

Hi, I am planning to go for Holiday and attend short language course. I am planning to start going to language course next year Feb so I am thinking to go in November and travel a bit then in January fly to Japan catch up with friends there. After that again come back to China to start the course. I am not sure what type I should apply. should I apply single entry 3month L then apply another one in Japan? or Is there any better option?