GuǎngzhōuEntertainment

Entertainment in Guǎngzhōu

  1. Wilber’s

    Wilber’s is a gem that is hidden down an alley in a historical villa. It has something for everyone: the patio is popular with ladies looking for a quiet natter, indoors is a gay-friendly drinking den, and upstairs is a fine-dining restaurant. It serves the best martinis and margaritas in town.

    reviewed

  2. Ping Pong

    This speakeasy-like bohemian watering hole hosts live music from time to time and offers a mix of theatre and exhibitions. It's hard to find, though. Flag down a taxi and tell the driver to drop you at the rear entrance of Xīnghǎi Conservatory (Xīnghǎi Yīnyuè Xuéyuàn Hòumén; 星海音乐学院后门). And make sure the driver isn't taking you to Xīnghǎi Concert Hall on Èrshā Island!

    reviewed

  3. Windflower

    This bar has big comfy couches and a moody atmosphere. The music is contemporary and hip. There aren't a huge range of drinks to choose from, though that doesn't stop the place from being packed on the weekends.

    reviewed

  4. Coffee Beanery

    This comfortable coffee shop in the Tianhe area offers a huge range of coffees - from simple house blends to fancy espresso concoctions. For customers, internet access is available from the in-house PCs.

    reviewed

  5. People's Cafe

    This popular cafe run by two Korean sisters has had a very smart facelift after its relocation. Best are the homemade pastries and tasty sandwiches. At night it turns into a cheerful drinking spot.

    reviewed

  6. A

    Blenz Coffee

    You'll find this Canadian coffee chain on Shamian Island has palatable coffee and a choice of desserts. Even better than the coffee is the free computer with internet access on the first floor.

    reviewed

  7. B

    Velvet

    Guangzhou's most famous club, popular with local and international DJs. With a full range of tunes to suit everybody, it's one of the best bets for a good night out.

    reviewed

  8. C

    Paddy Field

    Frequented for its top-notch beer, this famous Irish pub cranks up on Thursday for its salsa party.

    reviewed

  9. Wave Bar

    This is a popular nightspot for expats to dance and drink. With a full range of tunes to suit everybody, it's one of the best bets for a good night out.

    reviewed

  10. Elephant and Castle

    Long frequented by Guǎngzhōu's expat crowd, this popular sports bar still pulls in the crowds. Happy hour is from 17:00 to 20:00 daily.

    reviewed

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  12. D

    Xīnghǎi Concert Hall

    Home to the Guǎngzhōu Symphony Orchestra, the city's venue for classical music is on Èrshā Island.

    reviewed

  13. C Union

    An unpretentious but very busy boozer, C Union attracts a good mix of local college students and expats with its live music, from R&B to reggae. It's behind the Chéngshìhuì (城市会) building. Only accessible by taxi.

    reviewed

  14. Baie-Tan Bar Street

    Located along the Pearl River, next to the Guangzhou Riverside International Youth Hostel.

    reviewed

  15. E

    Guangzhou Opera House

    This brand-new 1800-seat opera house in Zhujiang New Town is Guǎngdōng's premier performance venue and China's third-largest theatre. See the website for upcoming gigs.

    reviewed

  16. Grand House

    As its name suggests, this place is just grand: plush leather seating, floor-to-ceiling glass and trippy LED lights. Music ranges from blues to dance beats. There are two dance floors and two garden lounges facing the Pearl River promenade. Events and theme parties are held every week. It's behind the Guǎngdōng Museum of Art on Èrshā Island.

    reviewed

  17. F

    Elaine's Garden

    If you want to rest your legs after visiting Guǎngdōng's giant museum, head to this tiny but elegantly decorated cafe and wine bar for a peaceful afternoon retreat.

    reviewed

  18. G

    Bound

    The latest place to hit Guǎngzhōu's club scene, Bound is an all-in-one club that boasts a restaurant and a lounge on the rooftop with fabulous night views of the Zhūjiāng River. Below is the dance floor with DJs pumping out music, a mixture of mainstream rock and hip-hop. Average drink prices and usually rocks till dawn.

    reviewed