Trying to plan Shanghai and Beijing. I have many Chinese friends from China through my time from uni. Alot of people ask me whether im interested in 'Rural' or 'Urban'. I never really understood what they meant by that. (im assuming its a city v country thing.....similiar to Australia ....only thing is international visitors prefer the cities).
AFAIK there's not that much interesting in rural areas. Tourism is much more popular in urban environments. But it also depends on what you want to see.
Beijing is good for historical, architectural attractions - Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden city.
Hong Kong is good for shopping, and overall very lively. Would be the best city to live in if moving as an English speaking student and wanting to live in China.
Shanghai has a great abundance in modern architecture, as well as shopping.
Macau has Portugese influences, also has casinos.
etcetc.
The suburbs are terrible for tourist activities, so I don't recommend it.