flying through Beijing

I'm a US citizen and will be traveling from San Francisco to Taiwan (no visa required) with a 10-hour layover in Beijing. From what I've read, it sounds like I could leave the airport to do some quick sightseeing on the 72-hour free transit, provided I've notified the airline when I board in SF of my plans. However, does this mean I have to collect my luggage and carry it around with me in Beijing or is there a way to re-check it back in after clearing customs and leave the airport unencumbered?