In transit, to connecting flights matter?

If I enter China via a direct flight, but the departure flight requires a change in another Chinese city, does the 72 hour visa work? I have no intention of staying in more than one Chinese city.

For example, I fly from Tokyo to Beijing. Then I get a flight from Beijing to Almaty, but the flight changes planes in Urumqi. I would not leave the airport in Urumqi- just change vessels. Is it possible to stay in Beijing for 72 hours with such an itinerary? Thank you!