Travelling with Cabin Crew to Chengdu, do I need a visa?

Hi I wish to visit Chengdu for just over 48 hours as a tourist from the UK. I will be accompanying my friend who will be working as cabin crew on a flight to Chengdu, from London. I will stay with her in Chengdu and then return on her working flight back a few days later. Do I definitely need an entry permit for this ? The trip starts on 8th March and there are no appointments available at the CVASC before then. Is there anything else I can do? Thanks for any advice.