11 hour layover in Chengdu China 27 Nov 17

Hello,
I have bee reading the rules and my understanding is I will get a free 72 hour Visa.
Won't my luggage go straight through to my final destination if my airline remains the same from Departure to my final destination?

Also any insight on what I can do in 8 hours in the city? I give 3 hours to be back at airport.
I will be a female alone and am also concerned about safety.
Thank you,
Bekka