What Is the Best Place to Drink in Beijing?

As the capital of China, Beijing has a thriving nightlife full of interesting and unique places to imbibe. The choices for finding that perfect spot to drink range from touristy bars and western pubs, to traditional Chinese teahouses and upmarket speakeasies. Depending on the type of atmosphere you are looking for, this article will help guide you towards finding the best place to drink in Beijing.

Themed Bars & Clubs

For those looking for a more lively experience, Beijing has no shortage of clubs and bars offering a buzzing ambiance. Places like Bar Blu, 12SQM and Leifeng are particularly popular with Beijing’s hip younger crowd, while western expats and tourists favour the more established locations such as Great Leap Brewing and Capital Spirits. Depending on the night that you visit, many of these bars offer live music or dancing and may have special offers such as discounted drinks or free entry.

Traditional Tea Houses

For a more traditional Chinese drinking experience, it is worth heading over near to Gulou district where there are many courtyard houses filled with locals enjoying delicious teas while they mingle and enjoy the evening. Some of these houses make very strong tea from leaves which can be quite alcoholic and you’ll want to try some of the traditional snacks to really get into that cultural mindset.

Bathing Culture

Chaoyang offers you a unique experience that once upon a time was present all over the city. This involves entering a traditional teahouse and immersing yourself in a hot bath full of herbs. It is possible to stay here until the early hours of the morning drinking with friends – but be warned that certain places encourage activities that visitors to Beijing may not be accustomed to.

Speakeasies & Hidden Bars

Beijing also has plenty of more upmarket bars and nightclubs for those who want a more sophisticated evening out. Bars such as Nest (part of the Opposite House in Sanlitun), Lugazzas, Comma and Yang Sheng are ideal for those seeking a classier experience with quality drinks, upmarket prices and ambient music.

Craft Beer & Brewpubs

Sanlitun is also home to many craft beer bars where you can enjoy a freshly tapped pint from a variety of artists-brewers who pride themselves on innovating flavours with each batch they serve. Jing-A brewery is arguably the most popular craft beer bar in the city and offers locals and visitors alike an impressive selection on tap. Alternatives such as Capital Spirits, Great Leap Brewing and Mutt have also made their mark with even more diverse flavours, quality ingredients and innovative seasonal tipples.

Beijing Pub Crawl Of Course in A Chinese Way

For those looking for something extra special during their time in Beijing, why not try out the Beijing Pub Crawl Of Course in A Chinese Way. This tour is an excellent way to get introduced to Beijing’s nightlife, explore different bar scenes and to try some regional dishes that are unique to the city. Led by an experienced local guide, visitors will be taken on a journey throughout the evening where they can sample some classic Chinese libations such as baijiu, or could even have the opportunity to try something new such as Moonshine Alley (Chinese vodka). Furthermore, guests will be able to learn about drinks culture in Beijing while enjoying food that is offered along the way. Tour participants also receive free shots at certain venues, plus discounts at shops close to various pubs.

No matter what kind of experience you are looking for when deciding on the best place to drink in Beijing, there is no doubt that you’ll find something suitable during your time in China’s captial city. With so many options out there it may be difficult to decide exactly where to go first – however, with this guide at least you can narrow down a few of your choices. Whether you’re after some cool cocktails or a tradition local beer, you now know exactly where to look!

And for those wanting an all-inclusive evening out without any of the hard work why not take a look at Viator’s Beijing Pub Crawl Of Course in A Chinese Way. Hone your baijiu skills and have an evening complete with exclusive discounts, free drinks and authentic Chinese cuisine – what could be better?

The Insider’s Guide to Beijing: Discovering Local Gems

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a place that oozes with culture, history, and tradition. The city has a population of over 21 million people, making it the second-largest city in China. With numerous attractions to explore and a rich history, Beijing can be overwhelming for tourists. However, beyond the usual sightseeing spots, there are hidden gems that only locals know about. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey through Beijing’s lesser-known spots, including dining, culture, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

While Beijing’s most popular attractions like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven are must-sees, there are several offbeat places that deserve attention too. For example, the 798 Art District is an excellent place for art aficionados. The district includes art galleries, studios, and trendy cafes, making it the ideal place for street photography enthusiasts. Another noteworthy attraction is the Jade Carving Factory, where visitors can observe artisans creating masterpieces from jade stones. You could also take a stroll through the historic hutongs to experience traditional Beijing life.

Dining Spots: Discover the Locals’ Favorites

Beijing is famous for its food, and you haven’t tasted real Chinese cuisine until you’ve been to the capital city. Eating out is a significant social activity in Beijing, and the city has several unique culinary specialties to offer. Apart from the famous Peking roast duck, don’t miss out on jianbing – a traditional Beijing-style wrap made from flour, egg, vegetables, and meat. You could also try baijiu – a potent local liquor – and join the locals in toasting to good health and prosperity.

Cultural Experiences: Discover Beijing’s Traditions

Beijing’s cultural experiences include everything from ancient palaces and temples to modern art galleries and theaters. The Beijing Opera is a must-see for cultural enthusiasts. The opera’s performances showcase traditional Chinese art forms like dance, music, and martial arts. Additionally, visit the Shichahai Shadow Play Theater to watch an ancient Chinese folk art form, including storytelling, singing, and shadow play.

Local History: Discover Fascinating Stories from the Past

As the political and cultural center of China for centuries, Beijing is steeped in history. The city has witnessed some of the most important events in Chinese history, including the rise and fall of dynasties. One fascinating piece of history is the story behind the Bell and Drum Towers. These towers were used to communicate time and other important messages to the common people. The story goes that the old emperor ordered that the clocks stop working around 1900 because they reminded him of the remaining time he had left.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Discover Unique Experiences

Finally, take a walk along the Jinshanling Great Wall instead of the more crowded portions closer to Beijing. Here, you can marvel at the breathtaking views and enjoy a peaceful walk without the crowds. Another unforgettable experience is the daily flag-raising ceremony in Tiananmen Square. If you can rise early, it’s worth the effort to watch the Chinese soldiers perform the ceremony with precision and honor.

In conclusion, Beijing is a city that captures the heart of all travelers. With its numerous attractions, delectable cuisine, unique cultural experiences, fascinating history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, there is something for everyone. So, pack your bags and be ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of Beijing.