Nightlife in Beijing
Beijing has certainly come a long way in terms of nightlife in the past few years, considering that around twenty years ago, the night scene was all but non-existent in Beijing. While still officially a communist country, China’s cities are fairly exciting when it comes to a lot of things, including post-twilight activities.
Some ten years ago, a typical tourist in Beijing had to settle for only two options: to patronize the opera or watch acrobatic performances. One more option was to make use of the amenities in their hotel. Fortunately for tourists today, there are more things that can be done in Beijing once night falls.
Because the government has realized the benefits of spicing up the nightlife in Beijing, it has greatly expanded the city’s entertainment for locals and tourists alike. Still, Beijing is keen on maintaining its cultural and historical attractions. For one, the opera and acrobatic shows have been moved to better venues.
More cultural and historical entertainment venues have been established, including teahouse theaters, traditional Chinese music concerts, puppet shows and film screenings. Of course, a proper nightlife in Beijing cannot go without bars and clubs. The capital authorities have relaxed quite a few rules in order to provide the ultimate relaxation venues for visitors in Beijing.
To experience a blast from the past, cheesy disco clubs that were popular prior to the existence of Beijing’s bars and clubs are still available for your enjoyment. Another popular nightlife activity in Beijing is going to the karaoke or videoke bar. Belt out a few songs and sing the night away at one of Beijing’s many videoke bars. Beijing’s dance halls are also great places for practicing or showing off your wicked dance moves. Dance halls are also a good place to pick up new dance steps from the locals, whose numbers might vary from what you are accustomed to. Pick up a few new tips and Asian hits and show them off when you get home.
In keeping with the rest of the world’s night scene, Beijing also has a stable of exotic bars and techno clubs, for the benefit of foreigners who like to party the way they are used to.
If you step out into the streets and find the roads bare, don’t be surprised. Beijing is known to be one of the more conservative cities in China, with its residents preferring to stay home for a nightcap with friends or for bonding time with the television.
For those who aren’t too big on the party scene, Beijing’s night market may be a good place to visit after the sun sets. If you’re not a big fan of exploring the city at night, most hotels in Beijing still offer various in-house entertainment options.
For travelers with children, you can take your kids to fun Kung Fu shows. Parents who are looking for a laid-back night can also visit venues that offer live jazz shows.
For a traditional Chinese nightlife experience, try visiting the teahouses at dinnertime. If you want a midnight snack, a worthwhile activity in Beijing is to visit Donghuamen’s Night Snack Street.