First time going out of the country from the U.S.

Going from US to Peking to Japan. Going through AirChina for both legs of the trip. I will be checking in luggage as well. Will my luggage go straight to Japan from the U.S. or will I need to go to baggage claim in Peking and then check it in for my flight to Japan since I have to change planes? Any other helpful suggestions would be greatly appreciated as well. thanks!