Shanghai’s nightlife is a dynamic tapestry that offers an eclectic mix for locals and visitors alike, blending vibrant clubs, bars, and a spectrum of live music venues. This bustling metropolis, a jewel in Shanghai China nightlife, is renowned for its diverse and vibrant social scene, making nightlife in Shanghai an unforgettable experience. From the pulsating heartbeats of Shanghai clubs to serene rooftop bars, the city caters to every taste, ensuring an array of unforgettable nights out.
Venturing into the night, guests can explore iconic nightlife districts, each with its unique charm and offerings. The article will guide readers through the top must-visit bars, best nightclubs for every taste, and the finest late-night eats and after-party spots in Shanghai night life. Additionally, tips for navigating the lively Shanghai nightlife scene will be shared, helping both newcomers and seasoned night owls make the most of their nocturnal adventures in the city.
Iconic Nightlife Districts
Shanghai’s nightlife districts are as diverse as they are captivating, each offering its own unique experience. Here’s a closer look at some of the most iconic areas that define the nightlife in this vibrant city:
The Bund
A historic area featuring a stunning pedestrian promenade, The Bund is famous for its breathtaking skyline views of Shanghai. It is home to numerous upscale bars and restaurants, including the renowned “M on the Bund” and the chic “Glamour Bar.” This area is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the sophisticated side of Shanghai nightlife.
Xintiandi and Surrounding Areas
Known for its tree-lined avenues, Xintiandi is a blend of traditional and modern architectural styles, creating a charming atmosphere. The district offers a mix of upscale and casual dining options, with popular venues like the “Speak Low” cocktail bar and “Eddy’s Cantina” for authentic Mexican cuisine. This car-free zone is perfect for leisurely nighttime strolls.
Financial District
The financial hub of Shanghai is not only about business; it also features iconic skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower. For those looking to enjoy a drink with a view, the “Ritz-Carlton Bar” on the 52nd floor offers stunning vistas along with signature cocktails, making it a prime spot for nightlife enthusiasts.
Hengshan Road and Maoming South Road
These areas are known for their vibrant street life and a plethora of bars, clubs, and restaurants. From the “Craft” microbrewery to “The Apartment” lounge, there’s something for every taste. The lively atmosphere and mix of local and international brands make these streets popular among both locals and tourists.
Nanjing Road and Fuxing Park
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street lights up at night with illuminated shops and cheerful crowds, offering a more laid-back nightlife experience. Nearby, Fuxing Park is home to exclusive clubs and KTVs, providing a touch of understated glamour. This area is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one place.
Lesser-Known Gems
For those looking to venture off the beaten path, Shanghai’s alleys and backstreets offer hidden gems. The “Tap House” in a quaint alley provides a wide selection of craft beers, while “Lost Heaven” serves up delicious Yunnan-style cuisine amidst quirky shops and art studios.
Shanghai’s nightlife districts each have their unique charm and offerings, ensuring that every night out is as exciting as the city itself. Whether you’re looking for high-end cocktails, vibrant club scenes, or quiet spots with local flavor, Shanghai has it all.
Top 5 Must-Visit Bars
Shanghai’s nightlife is renowned for its diversity and vibrancy, offering a plethora of options for every taste. Among the standout experiences are the city’s bars, each presenting a unique ambiance and an impressive array of drinks. Here are the top 5 must-visit bars in Shanghai that promise memorable evenings:
1. TOPS at Banyan Tree
Located on the rooftop of the Banyan Tree hotel, TOPS offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Huangpu River. The bar is celebrated for its sophisticated atmosphere and a wide selection of cocktails and wines. Guests can enjoy a relaxed setting, perfect for unwinding after a busy day or for a romantic evening out.
2. Logan’s Punch
This bar brings a fun and vibrant atmosphere to Shanghai’s nightlife scene. Known for its extensive cocktail menu, Logan’s Punch focuses on both classic and innovative drinks. The bar is also famous for its happy hour promotion, which runs from 5 PM to 7 PM, offering a 20% discount on all drinks. It’s a great spot for those looking to start their night with a punch.
3. Speak Low
Hidden behind a fake shop front in the French Concession area, Speak Low is a speakeasy-style bar that adds a touch of mystery and exclusivity to its charm. The bar features an extensive menu of meticulously crafted cocktails and has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Its secretive nature and exceptional drinks make it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
4. VUE Bar
Perched on the 37th floor of a building in the Bund area, VUE Bar offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of Shanghai. The rooftop setting provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying a range of cocktails and wines. The bar’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
5. RIINK
RIINK offers a unique twist to the typical bar setting with its nautical theme and location on a boat in the Huangpu River. The bar not only serves a variety of cocktails and craft beers but also focuses on providing a distinctive dining experience with an emphasis on seafood. The dynamic setting and extensive drinks menu ensure a memorable night out for all its guests.
Each of these bars provides a unique slice of Shanghai’s nightlife, catering to different preferences and occasions. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated rooftop experience, a hidden gem with expertly crafted cocktails, or a lively spot to start the night, Shanghai’s top bars have something to offer everyone.
Best Nightclubs for Every Taste
Shanghai’s nightlife is as varied as its skyline, offering a multitude of clubs that cater to different musical tastes and social atmospheres. Here’s a guide to some of the best nightclubs in Shanghai, each providing a unique night out experience.
M1NT
Perched atop a skyscraper, M1NT is known for its luxurious setting and panoramic views of the city. The club features live sharks in a giant aquarium, adding to its opulent ambiance. With a strict dress code that excludes shorts and sneakers, M1NT attracts a chic crowd and is often the choice for high-profile guests like Tom Cruise and Scarlett Johansson. While the drinks can be on the pricier side, the experience is unmatched for those looking to splurge.
Elevator
A mainstay in Shanghai’s underground music scene, Elevator caters to a younger crowd with its affordable drinks and a vibrant lineup of local and international DJs spinning diverse genres. The club’s intimate setting and progressive music make it a favorite for those who prefer a more laid-back, music-focused night out.
ALL Club
Located in the bustling area of Xuhui, ALL Club operates as a multi-functional space, serving as a club, theatre, art gallery, and more. It offers a dynamic musical experience with rooms dedicated to techno, house, drum and bass, among others. The club’s innovative approach to nightlife makes it a hub for creative expression and a must-visit for electronic music enthusiasts.
DaDa
Known for its eclectic mix of sounds and genres, DaDa is a vibrant club that stands out in Shanghai’s nightlife landscape. The club’s electric sound and hip-hop style make it a paradise for young people looking for a lively atmosphere. Its location in the Fuxing Park area adds to its appeal, providing a central spot for night owls.
Le Baron
Le Baron, located on the 32nd and 33rd floors of Hyatt on the Bund, offers breathtaking views of both the Lujiazui skyline and the Bund. This club blends modern elegance with an underground vibe, featuring a spacious terrace where guests can enjoy cocktails amidst stunning scenery. Known for its intricate light play and state-of-the-art sound systems, Le Baron hosts a comprehensive roster of DJs, making it a prime spot for a sophisticated night out.
Additional Noteworthy Clubs
- Playground (INS): An underground dance club in Huangpu, known for its two rooms of techno and tech house worship.
- Harley’s Back Room: Offers a rock-focused refuge in Xuhui, perfect for those looking to escape the mainstream club scene.
- La Suite: A bustling nightspot in Jing’an, popular among Shanghai’s international community.
- Lucca 390: Situated in Shanghai’s gayborhood, this bar and lounge offers diverse experiences, from lively dance floors to relaxed social spaces.
Each of these clubs provides a distinct slice of Shanghai’s nightlife, ensuring that whether you’re in the mood for high-energy dance floors or intimate music sessions, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Late-Night Eats and After-Party Spots
Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife isn’t just limited to clubs and bars; the city also offers a plethora of late-night eats and popular after-party spots to keep the energy going until the early hours. Whether you’re craving traditional street food or looking for a place to continue the night’s festivities, Shanghai has something to cater to every nocturnal whim.
Late-Night Dining Options
- Din Tai Fung: Known for its succulent xiao long bao (soup dumplings), this Taiwanese restaurant chain serves up a variety of noodle dishes and is a perfect spot for a late dinner. Open until 10:00 pm at various locations including Xintiandi, Super Brand Mall, and IAPM Mall.
- Food Republic: Located in Raffles City Mall at 268 Xizang Zhong Lu, near Changle Lu, this food court offers a diverse range of Asian cuisines until 10:00 pm. It’s ideal for sampling different dishes in one convenient location.
- Southern Barbarian (Nan Fang): For those with a taste for spice, this Sichuan restaurant in the Jing’an and Xuhui districts offers fiery dishes and hot pot until midnight.
- Kathleen’s Waitan: Situated at 5 The Bund, 5 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, this Western-style restaurant and bar serves burgers, steaks, and seafood until 2:00 am, making it a great spot for post-midnight cravings.
- Boxing Cat Brewery: This microbrewery offers a variety of craft beers and American-style bar food until midnight at locations like Yongfu Lu, Sinan Mansions, and Fumin Lu.
- A Wen Ye Shi Doujiang Youtiao Dian: Offering a taste of local breakfast any time of the day, this restaurant serves Taiwanese and Shanghainese dishes 24/7, including egg pancakes and savory soymilk.
- Bai Wei Shou Bo Long Xia Guan: Specializing in crawfish with over 20 varieties, this spot is known for its spicy stir-fries and is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
- Cha’s: This 1950s-style Hong Kong diner in Shanghai is easier to access late at night and offers classic cha canting dishes like Yuānyāng (a mix of black tea and coffee with condensed milk), pineapple bun, and beef rice noodles.
- Ding Te Le: Open 24 hours, this venue offers Shanghainese alleyway cuisine with comfort foods such as congee and noodles, perfect for winding down after a night out.
- Er Guang Hundun: Known for their signature dumplings served in peanut sauce, this family-owned spot provides a local dining experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Popular After-Party Spots
- Shanghai’s Food Streets: For those looking to continue the night, Shanghai’s food streets like Wujiang Road and Yunnan Road offer a variety of late-night eats, including dumplings, noodles, and fried rice dishes.
- KTV Venues: Karaoke King, Party World, and Red Box are among the top KTV venues where groups often head after a night of clubbing to sing their favorite hits and enjoy private party vibes.
These late-night dining and after-party options in Shanghai ensure that your night doesn’t have to end when the clubs close. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or looking to continue the celebration, the city’s nightlife caters to all your needs.
Tips for Navigating Shanghai’s Nightlife
Navigating the vibrant nightlife of Shanghai can be a thrilling experience, yet it demands some local know-how to make the most of your outings safely and enjoyably. Here are practical tips to help you explore the nightlife seamlessly:
Understand Local Currency and Payment Methods
Carrying cash is often safer and more convenient, as not all venues may accept international credit cards. Additionally, digital payment platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and can simplify transactions.
Stay Safe
While Shanghai is generally safe, it’s wise to exercise caution, especially in less crowded or transient areas like parks at night or near railway stations. Always use licensed taxis, and ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.
Respect Local Laws and Customs
Drug use in Shanghai is illegal and carries severe penalties, including deportation. Also, be mindful of local customs; for instance, avoid playing with chopsticks or wearing green hats, as these can be culturally insensitive.
Dress Appropriately for Clubs
Some clubs, like M1NT, enforce a strict dress code. Dressing to impress can enhance your chances of a smooth entry. Always check the club’s entry policy beforehand.
Be Cautious with Strangers
If approached for a drink in a bar or on the street, it’s best to politely decline. Be wary of QR code scams and anyone asking to use your phone, as these can be tactics for exploitation.
Choose Reputable Venues
Stick to well-known and reputable bars and clubs, especially when traveling alone or in small groups. This helps avoid places that might charge exorbitant prices or have less secure environments.
Use Reliable Transportation
Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Didi or Meituan are common and safe transportation options in Shanghai. They provide a convenient way to navigate the city at night.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
Embrace the local food scene by trying out traditional dishes instead of sticking only to international foods. This can also be a great way to continue your night with some late-night eats.
Keep Personal Belongings Secure
Maintain awareness of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings secure, especially in crowded places. Displaying valuable items publicly can attract unwanted attention.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy Shanghai’s nightlife with confidence and ease, making your nights out as memorable as the city itself.
Conclusion
Through this exploration of Shanghai’s electric nightlife, we’ve journeyed across its iconic districts, uncovering the best bars, nightclubs, and after-hours spots the city has to offer. Each venue, from the heights of sophisticated rooftop bars to the pulsating dance floors of eclectic nightclubs, showcases the vibrant, multifaceted nature of Shanghai after dark. The recommendations provided span the breadth of experiences available, aiming to ensure every visitor finds their ideal nocturnal adventure in this bustling metropolis.
The essence of Shanghai’s nightlife isn’t just in its varied venues but also in the experiences and memories they help create. Whether you’re soaking in the views over a cocktail, dancing the night away to cutting-edge beats, or enjoying the local cuisine in the early hours, Shanghai’s nightlife promises unforgettable moments. As you navigate this dazzling cityscape, remember to immerse yourself in the local culture and embrace the diversity that makes Shanghai’s night scene truly unique.
FAQs
What is the renowned nightlife street in Shanghai? Tongren Road, which is situated between Yan’an Road and Nanjing Road, has quickly become a celebrated bar street in Shanghai, rivaling the fame of Hengshan Road. As the sun sets, this area comes alive with a vibrant collection of bars.
Is Shanghai’s nightlife scene worth exploring? Absolutely, Shanghai is a fantastic destination for nightlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, enjoy a drink, or even partake in roller disco, Shanghai offers a diverse array of nighttime activities. Don’t miss the city’s unique attractions, such as enthralling acrobatic shows and performances by the world’s oldest jazz band.
Where should I go to experience the best of Shanghai’s nightlife? For an unforgettable night out in Shanghai, consider these top picks:
- Take a cruise along the Huangpu River.
- Visit M1NT, a renowned club.
- Be amazed by acrobatic shows.
- Enjoy the view from TOPS at the Banyan Tree.
- Stroll through the artsy lanes of Tianzifang.
- Sing your heart out at KTV Bars.
- Experience the chic ambiance of Bar Rouge.
- Discover the hidden gem, Speak Low.
What is the appropriate attire for visiting a club in Shanghai? When heading to a club in Shanghai, such as the Shanghai Club, the dress code is generally casual. However, sportswear is not recommended. It’s always a good idea to dress smartly to blend in with the stylish crowd.
