Why refused temporary visa at airport when hotel booked and exit flights confirmed in three days

Two week trip planned six months in advance. Two nights Hong Kong, seven day cruise Vietnam , two days Singapore and flight China air Beijing. Passed finger print arrival check. Form filled with other tourists at temporary visa desk as directed by website. All relevant documents up to date. No reason for denial and refusal permission to speak with senior personal or English speaker. Told to change flight home and wait in transit area. Air China staff helpful and we left 12 hours later. Lost paid for tour of Great Wall and main attractions plus three nights paid accommodation. Where do we apply for recompense and explanation. Pensioners with no issues for rejection. Felt like member of staff just decided no without reason and told us to wait in area for three days until document Swiss Air flight home.