This is just an innovative idea. Can I apply for a patent?

You can't. The law does not protect ideas or creativity.

patent law

Article 2 Inventions and creations mentioned in this Law refer to inventions, utility models and designs.

Detailed Rules for the Implementation of People's Republic of China (PRC) Patent Law

Article 2 "Invention" as mentioned in the Patent Law refers to a new technical scheme proposed for a product, method or its improvement.

The term "utility model" as mentioned in the patent law refers to a new technical scheme suitable for practical use for the shape, structure or combination of products.

The term "design" as mentioned in the Patent Law refers to a new design that is aesthetically pleasing and suitable for industrial application, which is made by the shape, pattern or combination of products and the combination of colors, shapes and patterns.