Practical information : Going out Southwest China
Timetable
Nightclubs and clubs are mainly concentrated in big cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen or Zhuhai. Typical opening hours are from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Karaoke bars, or KTVs, are a veritable institution in China. These establishments, popular with locals, generally open in the early evening at around 6pm and stay open until late into the night.
Budget & Tips
There are no hard and fast rules regarding access to clubs. Some establishments are free, while others charge an entrance fee that generally varies between 50 and 200 RMB, often with a drink included. Many clubs also offer discounts for customers arriving before midnight, a good way to avoid the long queues that sometimes stretch from midnight to 2am. The most exclusive clubs, notably in Canton (Guangzhou) or Shenzhen, may sometimes require prior reservation or contact for easier access. In addition, prices are generally not fixed and can be negotiated a little, provided you speak Mandarin.
Price levels. Cocktails generally cost between 80 and 150 RMB in standard clubs, and up to 200 RMB or more in high-end establishments. A local beer costs between 40 and 60 RMB.
Tipping. Tipping is rare or non-existent.
Taxes. Restaurants and clubs generally add a service charge of 10% to the total amount, especially in high-end establishments.
Payment methods. Payments are made via the mobile applications Alipay or WeChat, even in clubs. Credit cards are also accepted in most modern establishments, but it's advisable to check in advance.
To be booked
If you're going out in a group, reserving a table with drinks is a common option, especially in exclusive clubs in Guangzhou or Shenzhen. This reservation guarantees your entry and avoids long queues, but prices can quickly climb, especially in high-end clubs where VIP tables cost several thousand RMB. Be sure to check the conditions before booking.
In Hong Kong: the same practices apply in districts such as Lan Kwai Fong or Tsim Sha Tsui. Parties with international DJs generally require a ticket purchased online, and VIP tables can fetch very high prices in prestigious clubs. Follow the establishments' social networks for special offers and event announcements.
Shows. For open-air shows like Impression Liu Sanjie in Yangshuo or Impression Lijiang near Lijiang, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance. These spectacular performances, directed by renowned director Zhang Yimou, attract many local and international visitors, and seats can sell out quickly, especially on weekends or public holidays. Tickets can easily be purchased online (on Trip.com, for example), just a few days in advance.
Night transport
In major cities, the metro generally only runs until 11.30pm or midnight. Cabs are available 24 hours a day, but be prepared to pay a small surcharge between 11pm and 6am. These cabs operate on a meter, and it's best to make sure the driver activates it correctly. Chauffeur-driven car apps like DiDi are also very popular and convenient.
Age restrictions
The legal age for entering a nightclub is 18, corresponding to the minimum legal drinking age. However, some clubs may restrict entry to people aged 21 and over. So be sure to carry your passport or a copy of it with you if you're planning a night out at a club, as you may be asked for it.
What's very local
Whether in mainland China or Hong Kong, we all love to look good and get ready to go out. So play along and do the same! Especially when it comes to clubbing in the cities.
In small tourist towns like Yangshuo or Fenghuang, bars with live concerts replace clubs. As night falls, a joyous cacophony echoes through the streets, with live music echoing from all the bars.
Smokers
Smoking is legally prohibited inside bars and clubs. In practice, people do smoke in most clubs.
Tourist traps
There are no particular scams to report. However, it's important to be vigilant and to avoid any dubious proposals from touts or others.