Shanghai

🌃

Nightlife

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Nightlife in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, often referred to as the "Paris of the East," boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From glamorous rooftop bars with stunning views of the city skyline to underground clubs and live music venues, Shanghai offers something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate and enjoy the city's nightlife.

1. Popular Nightlife Districts

Shanghai's nightlife is concentrated in several key areas, each offering a unique vibe:

The Bund

  • Overview: The Bund is home to some of Shanghai's most iconic and upscale nightlife venues, including rooftop bars and luxury lounges with breathtaking views of the Huangpu River and the futuristic Pudong skyline.
  • Popular Venues:
    • Bar Rouge: A glamorous rooftop bar known for its chic ambiance and themed parties.
    • The Captain: A more laid-back rooftop bar with affordable drinks and great views.
    • M Glam: A sophisticated lounge offering cocktails and live jazz.
  • Vibe: Upscale, glamorous, and tourist-friendly.

Xintiandi

  • Overview: A trendy pedestrian area with a mix of high-end bars, restaurants, and clubs. The area is known for its restored Shikumen (stone gate) architecture.
  • Popular Venues:
    • Muse on the Bund: A high-energy club with a mix of locals and expats.
    • Cobra Lily: A stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks.
  • Vibe: Trendy, cosmopolitan, and slightly upscale.

Former French Concession (FFC)

  • Overview: Known for its tree-lined streets and historic charm, the FFC is a hub for speakeasies, craft cocktail bars, and live music venues.
  • Popular Venues:
    • The Union Trading Company: A cozy bar with award-winning cocktails.
    • The Shelter: A former bomb shelter turned underground club (check if it’s still open, as venues in Shanghai change frequently).
    • Cotton Club: A legendary jazz bar.
  • Vibe: Artsy, laid-back, and popular with expats.

Jing’an

  • Overview: A bustling district with a mix of upscale bars, casual pubs, and nightclubs.
  • Popular Venues:
    • Revolucion Cocktail: A lively Latin-themed bar.
    • Arkham: A popular underground club for electronic music.
  • Vibe: Diverse, energetic, and youthful.

Hengshan Road

  • Overview: A street lined with bars and clubs, popular with locals and expats alike.
  • Popular Venues:
    • Zapatas: A Mexican-themed bar with a lively dance floor.
    • The Apartment: A multi-level bar and club with a relaxed vibe.
  • Vibe: Casual, fun, and social.

2. Types of Venues

Shanghai’s nightlife offers a wide variety of venues to suit different preferences:

  • Rooftop Bars: Perfect for enjoying the city’s skyline. Examples include Bar Rouge and Flair at the Ritz-Carlton.
  • Nightclubs: High-energy venues like M2 and TAXX cater to electronic dance music fans.
  • Live Music Venues: Jazz and blues are popular in Shanghai, with venues like JZ Club and Heyday offering live performances.
  • Speakeasies: Hidden cocktail bars like Speak Low and Flask provide a unique and intimate experience.
  • KTV (Karaoke): A quintessential Chinese nightlife activity. Popular chains include Party World and Haoledi.

3. Typical Costs

Shanghai’s nightlife can range from affordable to extravagant, depending on the venue and your preferences:

  • Cocktails: ¥60–¥120 ($8–$16) at most bars; higher at luxury venues.
  • Beer: ¥30–¥60 ($4–$8) for local or imported brands.
  • Club Entry Fees: ¥100–¥300 ($14–$42), often including a drink.
  • KTV Rooms: ¥200–¥500 ($28–$70) per hour, depending on the size and location.
  • Bottle Service: ¥800–¥2,000+ ($110–$280+) for premium spirits at clubs.

Tipping is not customary in China, so you don’t need to tip bartenders or servers.

4. Dress Codes

  • Upscale Venues: Smart casual or formal attire is recommended. Men should avoid wearing shorts, flip-flops, or sneakers.
  • Casual Bars and Clubs: Dress codes are more relaxed, but it’s still a good idea to dress neatly.
  • KTV: No specific dress code; casual attire is fine.

5. Local Customs and Etiquette

  • Drinking Culture: Drinking is a social activity in China, and it’s common to toast with friends or strangers. When toasting, hold your glass lower than the other person’s as a sign of respect.
  • Sharing Tables: In crowded venues, you may be asked to share a table with strangers. This is normal and can be a great way to meet new people.
  • Noise Levels: Clubs and bars can get loud, but in quieter venues, keep your voice down to respect others.
  • Smoking: Smoking is still common in many bars and clubs, though some upscale venues have designated smoking areas.

6. Safety Tips

  • Counterfeit Alcohol: Stick to reputable venues to avoid counterfeit or low-quality alcohol.
  • Scams: Be cautious of strangers inviting you to bars or clubs, as this could be a scam to overcharge you.
  • Personal Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded clubs.
  • Taxi Safety: Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi to avoid being overcharged.

7. Transportation Options at Night

Shanghai’s public transportation shuts down around 11:00 PM, so you’ll need to rely on other options:

  • Taxis: Widely available and relatively affordable. Fares start at ¥14 ($2) for the first 3 kilometers.
  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Didi is the most popular app and offers English-language support.
  • Shared Bikes: Apps like Mobike and Hellobike are an option for short distances, but be cautious when cycling at night.
  • Walking: Many nightlife districts are pedestrian-friendly, but stick to well-lit areas.

8. Cultural and Practical Considerations

  • Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to have the address of your destination written in Chinese.
  • ID Requirements: Bring a valid ID (passport for foreigners) as some venues may check your age.
  • Changing Venues: It’s common to visit multiple bars or clubs in one night, so plan your route in advance.
  • Weather: Shanghai can be humid in summer and chilly in winter, so dress appropriately for the season.

9. Final Tips for Enjoying Shanghai’s Nightlife

  • Plan Ahead: Some popular venues require reservations, especially on weekends.
  • Go with Friends: Nightlife in Shanghai is best enjoyed in a group, as it’s a social experience.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink water between alcoholic beverages, especially if you’re not used to strong cocktails or shots.
  • Explore Local Drinks: Try Chinese spirits like baijiu or local craft beers for a unique experience.

Shanghai’s nightlife is dynamic and ever-changing, so don’t hesitate to ask locals or expats for recommendations. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to enjoy the city’s vibrant after-dark scene!