I want to leave China when my temporary residence permit expires

I have a temporary residence permit until 22nd of February 2018. My company says that at the end of my contract I have to get this permit converted into a tourist visa before I can leave the country. So at the end of my contract I would not be able to work and have to wait for weeks until I get a tourist L type? Do I also have to tell my local police station that I'm leaving the country for good? Cant I just go home without having to convert my residence permit?