I mean, is there a preference, it doesn't matter or is it particular to situation, say if you're going to walk a lot that day or not? since the traveling season's coming, i'm asking for practical reasons.
^ I am replying to this because I have been to China once in the summertime and as far I recollect, it's better to wear sandals coz your feet will sweat. It's pretty hot and you are like walking most of the time; sight-seeing. Practical and comfortable. Just make sure your sandals are a good pair and not those cheap undurable ones, coz u are gonna do plenty of walking. Low to flat heels preferably. You could opt for a pair of sports shoes too...
It depends, if you plan to walk a lot you'd better find yourself good walking shoes 'n socks. If you mostly sit in a coach it can be sufficient to wear sandals. But for safety reasons I would go for a pair of good shoes. (maybe you can carry the sandals with you so you can change if you're making a stop in a park or something)
There are quite high tech socks that absorb sweat and ventilate and whatever magic it can do out there. Quite expensive for socks but it worked for me.
^Good walking shoes; that's what I go for... I am thinkin in terms of those Jimmy-choos .. not practical lol. As for sandals, i was wearing a pair of Scholls. Pretty comfortable.
I prefer walking shoes, since it gives your foot more support. The current walking shoes have Gortex, etc which keeps sweat outside BTW China is pretty crowded. Don't want to have them standing on your tows ...
Shoes all the way if you plan to go places where lots of ppl. Last time i was in Guangzhou, got stepped on couple times in crowded places, not to mention being shoved aside as well.
China streets aren't the cleanest if you don't mind having black feet go with sandal otherwise wear running shoes.