Hotel accommodations or a person to see

Are you applying for a L visa? If you don't have an inviting person then you don't need to fill in it. Hotel reservation, round trip flight tickets and destination should be filled.

From Jan. 1, 2024, tourist visa applicants (L-Visa) within the US will no longer be required to submit round-trip air ticket booking record, proof of hotel reservation, itinerary or invitation letter.
Joshua.. I asked that question because of this above.. So I Have to write my Hotel accommodations still and flight info?...Yes applying for a Visitors Visa (L) Visa I think to call it.. Sorry for all the questions but this is much more involved than I ever thought .. So if I decided to stay for the 72 hours (3 days) I do not need a visa ? right ? I get a pass to stay for the 72Hrs ? How does that work ?

The 72hr has been upgraded to 144 visa free transit free from visa application troubles, actually many tourists from USA choose it. To use it, you need to first decide where you want to travel to (areas with most famous attractions are eligible for the 144) and then plan an eligible route.
Areas for your reference: https://www.travelchinaguide.com/tour/visa/free-transit-144-hours.htm
An example eligible route: USA - eligible areas in Mainland China - HK / Macau or other countries - USA

Thank you for that information Marcy. You are right in saying this is a very good option for someone who is just going to see a person or to just look around for a bit. What do I need to do? Do I need to go somewhere to get a pass? Or do I just need to make sure I’m stay the allotted amount of time and nothing more?
Thank you again
Tony

Just take your flight tickets leaving China within 6 days and hotel reservation in the allowed area or other proof to show you won't overstay, no other special documents or procedures for the 144.

OK I see.. So i will not need to do anything or see anyone as long as I abide by the 144hr deadline.. Keep all docs with me in case I am approached or asked questions. Correct?

If that is the case 6 days and nights is more than enough time to visit or look around .. Just verify that and i can go ahead and make my reservations.... :)

you are so very helpful Lon
.

Yes, you are right and you're welcome. And kindly note that the duration of stay is calculated from 00:00 of the day following your entry. For example, if you arrive on December 1, the duration would be counted from 00:00 on December 2 and should depart before 24:00 on December 7.