The Pub Crawl Culture in Beijing: An Insider’s Guide

When it comes to vibrant nightlife, Beijing does not disappoint. Apart from its rich history and culture, the city is also known for its bustling bar scene that attracts both locals and tourists alike. With its unique and eclectic mix of bars, pubs, and clubs all around the city, it’s not surprising to see many visitors indulging in a pub crawl experience.In this post, we’ll take you on a journey into the heart of Beijing’s pub crawl culture, and guide you through some of the best bars and venues to explore in the city.

What is a Pub Crawl?

A pub crawl is an event in which a group of people visit multiple bars or pubs in a single night, and typically involves drinking alcoholic beverages. These events vary in size from small groups of friends to organized tours with dozens of participants.In Beijing, pub crawls are organized by various tour agencies, and even by the bars themselves. They usually start in the early evening and last until the early hours of the morning. For those who enjoy socializing and exploring new bars and nightlife, a pub crawl can be a fun way to experience the city.

Why Participate in a Pub Crawl in Beijing?

Beijing is a sprawling city with an array of bars, from traditional Chinese-style pubs to modern western-style bars. Participating in a pub crawl is an excellent way to explore these different bars and meet new people in the process.Apart from discovering new bars and venues, a pub crawl can also be an opportunity to learn about Beijing’s drinking culture. You’ll encounter locals and expats alike, and experience the different practices involved in drinking and socializing in the city.

Best Bars and Venues in Beijing for a Pub Crawl

Below are some of the best bars and venues to explore on a pub crawl in Beijing:

1. Sanlitun

Sanlitun is Beijing’s most famous pub and club district, located in the Chaoyang district. With its bars and clubs lining the streets and its vibrant atmosphere, it’s no surprise that this area is the go-to spot for many local and visiting pub-crawlers.Some of the bars to explore in Sanlitun include:- Vics: A popular nightclub that hosts a variety of events and attracts a mix of locals and expats.- D Lounge: A trendy bar with an outdoor terrace, serving up delicious cocktails and wines.- Bar Blu: A sleek, modern bar that offers a range of drinks and music genres.

2. Gulou Area

The Gulou area, also known as Houhai, is an old hutong alleyway that has been transformed into a popular nightlife destination. With its rustic atmosphere and traditional Chinese-style bars, this area offers a unique pub crawl experience.Some of the bars to explore in Gulou Area include:- Great Leap Brewing: A craft beer bar that offers a selection of unique and tasty beer flavors.- Drum and Bell Bar: A traditional Chinese-style bar that offers live music and a laid-back atmosphere.- Modernista: A quirky bar that offers an array of drinks, including absinthe, and features retro decor.

3. Wudaokou

Wudaokou is a popular hangout spot for university students and is located in the Haidian district. With a mix of traditional Chinese-style pubs and modern bars, Wudaokou offers something for everyone.Some of the bars to explore in Wudaokou include:- Pyro Pizza: A pizza joint that also serves beer and cocktails.- Lush: A laid-back bar with a pool table and live music.- The Big Smoke: A sports bar that offers a range of drinks and features large screens showing live sports events.

Tips for a Successful Pub Crawl in Beijing

To ensure a successful pub crawl experience in Beijing, we recommend the following tips:1. Dress appropriately: Depending on the bar or club, dress codes may vary. It’s always a good idea to check the dress code with the venue beforehand.2. Stay hydrated: With so much drinking involved, it’s important to stay hydrated to avoid a hangover the next day.3. Take care of your belongings: Some bars and clubs can get crowded, so it’s important to keep your belongings close by.4. Be safe: Take care when walking around the city late at night and ensure you have a reliable method of transportation back to your accommodation.

Conclusion

Beijing is a city that offers a unique pub crawl experience, with its eclectic mix of bars and venues. Exploring the various districts in the city and discovering new bars and pubs is a fun and exciting way to get to know the city and mingle with locals and expats alike. With the tips provided here, you can now embark on a successful pub crawl adventure in Beijing.