I quite like Mori Miho of SoloStrings. If you are looking for something less expensive, try Andre Jutras (2758 2349). His workshop is only a few minutes' walk from SoloStrings. You may be able to get a decent Chinese violin from Andre for about $3,000 - $5,000. Whilst it may sound a lot for a student violin, $3,000 - $5,000 is not that much compared to costs of lessons, is it?
Playability is everything for a beginning student. For those without trained eyes, I strongly advise against buying from ebay or yahoo auction. Chance is that you will get something very difficult to play, if playable at all. Common problems include - bridges too high/thick, neck projection too high/low, nut not properly fitted, soundpost in wrong position, etc. Learning violin is not particularly easy. Don't making life difficult by getting a violin that is difficult to play.
I forgot to mention Violmaster, which is also in Wancahi. It is a friendly shop that carries reasonably priced better grade Chinese violins. I cannot tell for sure but my impression is that Violmaster is, compared to HK Strings and Orfeo, a cheaper source for better Chinese violins. I have lost the contact # of Violmaster. Just do an online search. Its contact info should be just a few clicks away.
I quite like Mori Miho of SoloStrings. If you are looking for something less expensive, try Andre Jutras (2758 2349). His workshop is only a few minutes' walk from SoloStrings. You may be able to ...