What are the procedures to obtain Chinese visa for a 1st time traveller? And how long?

You just need to prepare your application documents and send them to the local Chinese embassy directly. For the documents, you need to provide your valid passport, an application form, a recent taken photo, a letter from a local travel agency or other travel organizer, an "Invitation Letter for Tourist” from Chinese Tourist Bureau, your travel routes, Company covering letter for each member (if any) and financial support at least 3 monthes.

Usually, it takes around four working days to get it.