Top 3 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Hangzhou

Capture of Leifeng Pagoda amidst autumn foliage at West Lake, Hangzhou, China.
miyou_ 77, Pexels

Hangzhou's evening scene leans towards a more relaxed and atmospheric experience, with a focus on quality venues offering a mix of sophisticated cocktails, local craft beers, and live music.

Entertainment and Music:

Hangzhou's entertainment scene offers a blend of cultural performances and modern nightlife, appealing to both a local and expatriate community. While known for its serene beauty, the city provides various options for evening enjoyment, from traditional shows to live music and lively bars.

For live music, venues such as Huanglou Jazz Bar are known for hosting jazz performances by bands and singers from around the world. Other establishments, including Shares Bar, also feature live bands. Beyond these, dedicated live houses like XIANG LIVEHOUSE and MAO Livehouse host concerts and a variety of musical acts.

1. JZ Club

Type: Jazz Bar / Live Music Venue

Nestled in a charming two-story building near West Lake, JZ Club provides an intimate setting for live jazz performances. The venue frequently hosts talented local and international musicians, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying a selection of cocktails and wines. Expect a sophisticated crowd appreciating the quality music and drinks.

Getting There: Located at No.6, Liuying Road, Shangcheng District, JZ Club is within walking distance of the West Lake area. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available, with typical in-city fares being affordable.

2. iDontG1vEASh1t LOUNGE BAR

Type: Rooftop Lounge

Perched on the 37th floor of the Regent International Center, this lounge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, particularly the Qiantang River. It provides a stylish environment for enjoying cocktails, and the atmosphere is conducive to unwinding while taking in the high-altitude scenery.

Getting There: Situated in the Olympic Expo/Qianjiang Century City area (Hongning Road, Regent International Center Building 2, Room 3724), this lounge is best reached by taxi or ride-hailing, costing approximately 50-70 CNY from the West Lake area. Alternatively, visitors can take Hangzhou Metro Line 2 or 15 to Qianjiang Century City or Fengbei subway stations, which takes about 21 minutes and costs around 2-9 CNY.

3. Tapdog

Type: Craft Beer Bar

Tapdog is a inviting taproom that prides itself on its selection of craft beers, often featuring brews from local Hangzhou breweries. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, making it an excellent spot to unwind and explore different beer styles. It also serves hot dogs, complementing the laid-back drinking experience.

Getting There: Located at Zhongshan Middle Road No.238-1, Tapdog is conveniently accessible via Hangzhou Metro Line 1, with Ding'an Road Exit A being a short walk away. Its central location also makes it easily reachable by foot or a brief taxi ride from many downtown areas.