Can I go back to China before my H1 be effective

I got my H1 approved this month. H1 will be effective this Oct 1st. My
current status is still Opt. Since I am planning to go back to China in this
Sept, I am wondering whether it is safe to go back. That means that I need
to apply for H1 VISA in China, right? Any complexity there?
or Should I go back and return before Oct. 1 so that I can still use my Opt Status? Or after Oct using my H1 status?

Thanks.