Getting a Chinese visa in Vladivostok, Russia, as a US citizen

I'm a US citizen, and I'd like to get a Chinese tourist visa in
Vladivostok, Russia (I'm living in Russia until June 2008). I'd like
to go to China (Beijing, and maybe Shanghai and Nanjing) at the end of
December/beginning of January. I've been reading various websites and
websites of consulates, but it's kind of confusing. Does anyone have
a definite answer?

As far as I can tell, I need my passport, money, application form
(this can be filled out at the consulate), 1 color photograph, and an
invitation from a Chinese tour agency authorized by the Chinese
government.

Can anyone recommend a Chinese agency? I don't need to book a tour,
as I'll be meeting friends there. How much should this cost
approximately? Will tour agencies give me a letter, even though I
won't be using any of their other services?

Do I also need tickets showing when I'm leaving China?

How long does it take to get a visa? What's the shortest amount of
time I can do it in?

Thanks for your help!

.

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