X1 visa, travel to multiple places in China first before go to school.

Hong, if you stay in a hotel, the hotel will register at the police station for you. You don't have to do it by yourself. I do think it's too late to apply after Septemeber 11th. You know, to apply for it, you have to get a physical examination record first at a designated hospital. It takes a fews days to wait for the medical result. Then you need seven working days for processing the residence permit. Therefore, I strongly suggest you apply for the residence permit as soon as possible after you enter.