Guilin

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Bars and Nightlife

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Comprehensive Guide to Bars and Nightlife in Guilin, China

Guilin, a picturesque city in southern China known for its stunning karst mountains and serene rivers, offers a modest but vibrant nightlife scene. While itโ€™s not as bustling as larger cities like Shanghai or Beijing, Guilinโ€™s nightlife has its own charm, blending modern entertainment with local culture. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate and enjoy the nightlife in Guilin.

1. Overview of Guilinโ€™s Nightlife Scene

Guilinโ€™s nightlife is centered around two main areas:

  • Zhengyang Pedestrian Street: A lively area with bars, restaurants, and street performances.
  • Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area: Known for its illuminated night cruises and serene atmosphere.

The nightlife in Guilin caters to a mix of locals, expats, and tourists, offering everything from laid-back bars and live music venues to karaoke (KTV) and night markets. While itโ€™s not a party city, youโ€™ll find plenty of options to relax and enjoy the evening.

2. Popular Venues

Here are some of the most recommended spots for nightlife in Guilin:

Bars and Pubs

  1. Rosewood Cafรฉ & Bar

    • Description: A cozy, Western-style bar popular with expats and tourists. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, live music, and a good selection of cocktails, beer, and wine.
    • Location: Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.
    • Cost: Cocktails start at ยฅ50, beer at ยฅ30.
    • Highlights: Friendly staff, English-speaking bartenders, and occasional live performances.

  2. Kaya Bar

    • Description: A reggae-themed bar with a laid-back vibe. Itโ€™s a great spot for meeting fellow travelers and enjoying live music.
    • Location: Near the Sheraton Hotel.
    • Cost: Drinks range from ยฅ30-ยฅ60.
    • Highlights: Unique reggae theme, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

  3. Guilin This Old Place International Youth Hostel Bar

    • Description: A rooftop bar with stunning views of the Li River and the city. Itโ€™s a favorite among backpackers.
    • Location: Near the Li River.
    • Cost: Beer starts at ยฅ25.
    • Highlights: Scenic views, budget-friendly drinks, and a relaxed vibe.

Nightclubs

  1. Soho Bar

    • Description: One of the most popular nightclubs in Guilin, offering a mix of electronic dance music (EDM), Chinese pop, and international hits.
    • Location: Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.
    • Cost: Entry is often free, but drinks are priced higher (ยฅ50-ยฅ100).
    • Highlights: High-energy atmosphere, modern dรฉcor, and a mix of locals and tourists.

  2. True Color Club (็œŸ็ˆฑ้…’ๅง)

    • Description: A high-end nightclub with a luxurious interior, live DJs, and a lively dance floor.
    • Location: Near the city center.
    • Cost: Entry is free, but drinks are expensive (ยฅ80+ for cocktails).
    • Highlights: Upscale vibe, professional DJs, and a chance to experience local nightlife culture.

Live Music Venues

  1. Music Life Club
    • Description: A small venue featuring live performances by local and international artists. Genres range from rock to jazz.
    • Location: Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.
    • Cost: Entry is free; drinks start at ยฅ30.
    • Highlights: Intimate setting, talented performers, and a mix of music styles.

Karaoke (KTV)

  1. Party World (้’ฑๆŸœ KTV)
    • Description: A popular karaoke chain in China, offering private rooms with state-of-the-art sound systems.
    • Location: Multiple locations in Guilin.
    • Cost: Room rental starts at ยฅ100/hour, depending on the size and time of day.
    • Highlights: Extensive song selection (including English songs), food and drink service, and a quintessential Chinese nightlife experience.

3. Types of Entertainment

  • Bars and Pubs: Perfect for casual drinks and socializing.
  • Nightclubs: High-energy venues for dancing and mingling.
  • Live Music: Enjoy performances by local and international artists.
  • KTV: A must-try experience in China, where you can sing your heart out in private rooms.
  • Night Cruises: Take a boat ride along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area to enjoy the cityโ€™s illuminated landmarks.

4. Costs

  • Drinks: Beer (ยฅ25-ยฅ50), Cocktails (ยฅ50-ยฅ100), Wine (ยฅ60+ per glass).
  • Entry Fees: Most bars and clubs have free entry, but some high-end venues may charge a cover fee (ยฅ50-ยฅ100).
  • KTV: Room rental starts at ยฅ100/hour, with additional costs for food and drinks.
  • Night Cruises: Tickets range from ยฅ150-ยฅ200 per person.

5. Local Customs and Etiquette

  • Drinking Culture: In China, itโ€™s common to toast with friends or strangers. When clinking glasses, hold your glass slightly lower than the other personโ€™s as a sign of respect.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in China, but itโ€™s appreciated in tourist-friendly bars.
  • Noise Levels: Bars and clubs can get loud, but outdoor areas like the lakes and rivers are quieter and more relaxed.
  • Dress Code: Casual attire is acceptable in most bars, but upscale clubs may require smart-casual clothing.

6. Safety Tips

  • Transportation: Use taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi to get around at night. Avoid unlicensed taxis.
  • Personal Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded venues.
  • Alcohol: Drink responsibly and be cautious of counterfeit alcohol in less reputable establishments.
  • Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken, so itโ€™s helpful to have a translation app or learn basic Mandarin phrases.
  • Scams: Be wary of overly friendly strangers inviting you to bars, as this could be a scam to overcharge you.

7. Unique Cultural Considerations

  • Night Markets: Guilinโ€™s night markets, such as the one on Zhongshan Road, are a great way to experience local culture. You can enjoy street food, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
  • Tea Culture: If you prefer a quieter evening, visit a traditional tea house to experience Chinese tea culture.
  • Outdoor Performances: Look out for cultural shows or street performances, especially around Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.

8. Recommendations for Planning

  • Start Early: Many bars and pubs open around 6 PM, while nightclubs get busy after 10 PM.
  • Group Activities: KTV is best enjoyed with friends or a group.
  • Combine Activities: Pair a night cruise with a visit to a nearby bar for a well-rounded evening.
  • Check Reviews: Use apps like Dianping (Chinese Yelp) or TripAdvisor to find updated reviews and recommendations.

9. Final Thoughts

Guilinโ€™s nightlife may not rival that of larger cities, but it offers a unique blend of modern entertainment and local culture. Whether youโ€™re looking to relax with a drink, dance the night away, or explore the cityโ€™s illuminated beauty, Guilin has something for everyone. With this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to make the most of your evenings in this charming city.