A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Bars and Nightlife in Guangzhou

Guangzhou, the vibrant heart of South China, transforms into a mesmerizing landscape of neon lights and rhythmic beats as the sun sets. Known for its sophisticated cocktail culture and high-energy clubs, the city offers everything from world-class speakeasies hidden behind humble storefronts to "Livehouses" that provide a concert-like experience. This guide explores the diverse nightlife of Guangzhou based on the latest local trends and venue rankings.

The Sophisticated Cocktail Scene

Guangzhou’s mixology scene has gained international recognition, notably through venues like Hope & Sesame (庙前冰室). Consistently ranked in the "Asia's 50 Best Bars" list, this speakeasy is hidden behind a traditional Cantonese snack shop facade. To enter, one must navigate a secret door, leading to a world of experimental cocktails like the "Shiitake Mushroom Martini."

Other notable spots include Evening Standard, praised for its balanced and adventurous flavors, and DSK (庙前岽舍), a multi-story venue where each floor offers a different theme, including a "hotel kitchen" concept where cocktails are served in unique containers like toothpaste tubes.

The Rise of the Livehouse

For many locals, the "Livehouse" is the pinnacle of the night. Unlike traditional bars, these are massive venues where professional bands and singers perform high-energy sets. Kong Ping Zi (空瓶子) is a local legend, famous for creating a "sea of fluorescence" with glow sticks, making every night feel like a stadium concert.

High-Altitude and Scenic Views

If you prefer your drinks with a view, Guangzhou’s skyline does not disappoint. Too High, located on the 107th floor of the Rosewood Hotel, offers a literal bird's-eye view of the Canton Tower. For a more riverside experience, the 琶醍 (Party Pier) district features spots like JoJo's Riverside, where you can sip cocktails while watching the Pearl River cruise by.

Clubbing and High-Energy Beats

For those looking to dance, the Tianhe district—specifically around Zhujiang New Town and Zhujiang Dao—is the place to be. Clubs like Backup, Skrr, and EMO LAB cater to fans of Hip-hop and Bounce music. These venues are known for their high-energy DJ sets, impressive light shows, and a young, trendy crowd.

Main Recommendations

Cocktail Bars & Speakeasies

• Hope & Sesame (庙前冰室): Asia's Top 50 bar, famous for the Shiitake Martini (Post #1, #14).
• DSK (庙前岽舍): Multi-floor hotel-themed bar; features "toothpaste" cocktails (Post #2, #20).
• Evening Standard: Known for sophisticated, balanced cocktails (Post #36, #49).
• Bar Lys: High-quality cocktails at a reasonable price point (Post #2, #13).
• Shaken not stirred: A tiny, creative gem near Liuyun (Post #2).
• The Church: Gothic/European style with views of the Sacred Heart Cathedral (Post #2).
• Moment (新月): Music-themed with record-inspired menus (Post #2).
• Inner: A cave-themed bar in Dongshankou (Post #16).
• The Churchill Bar: Classic gentleman’s club vibe inside the Ritz-Carlton (Post #23).
• Stiller: Located in Taojin (Post #49).
• Barising: Dongshankou area (Post #49).
• Mixedrinks: Dongshankou area (Post #49).
• No. 10 Bar: Dongshankou area (Post #49).
• Petit Pot (酒锅): Dongshankou area (Post #49).
• Bar Back: Wuyangcun area (Post #49).
• Eat&Drink Co: Wuyangcun area (Post #49).
• Bar Gimlet: Wuyangcun area (Post #49).
• Sloopy Parlor: Tianhenan area (Post #49).
• Tipsy Cat (猫猫地): Ximenkou area (Post #49).
• Mass Minors: Zhujiang New Town (Post #49).
• Pourroom (倒久): Jiangnanxi area (Post #49).
• Loop Bar: Vinyl/record theme in Liwan (Post #57).
• 3Fun (三番CoffeeBar): Located in a traditional house in Yongqing Fang (Post #57).
• Nuan Lu (暖庐): Japanese-style natural wine bar (Post #57).
• This Waaay: American retro style (Post #57).
• Jiu Liu (九流工作室): No-menu hidden bar (Post #57).
• No Key: Bespoke cocktails near Liede (Post #57).
• Capri: Natural wine shop/bar (Post #57).
• Bar Kaze (Rtc): Pet-friendly cocktail bar in Wuyangcun (Post #55).

Livehouses & Music Bars

• Kong Ping Zi (空瓶子): Iconic venue with concert-level production (Post #3, #46).
• Shi San Tang (拾叁唐): Large-scale live music; fusion of pop and rock (Post #4, #31).
• Xiang Livehouse (響): Located in Taigucang Wharf (Post #41).
• JZ Club: Famous jazz bar (Post #24).
• Midknight: Castle-themed bar with live bands (Post #5, #45).
• Red (瑰丽赤醉): Rosewood’s gritty, high-energy live band venue (Post #29, #56).
• Hong Livehouse: (Post #47).

Clubs & Nightlife Venues

• Backup: Korean-style "Bounce" music, very popular with a stylish crowd (Post #3, #11).
• Canyon Town (峡谷镇): Western/Cowboy-themed Hip-hop club (Post #3, #4).
• Skrr: Underground Hip-hop culture hub (Post #3, #21).
• EMO LAB: Popular Hip-hop club with graffiti decor (Post #4, #10).
• 808 Club: Large EDM party space in Baiyun (Post #4, #32).
• Focus: High-end business-style club in the W Hotel (Post #10, #32).
• Touch: Multi-concept venue with outdoor seating and KTV (Post #11, #32).
• Exxit: Cyberpunk/Industrial themed Bounce club (Post #21, #53).
• Kiss: High-energy club popular with the college crowd (Post #10, #21).
• BM Show: Former Focus bar, features 22m high ceilings and heavy EDM (Post #3).
• DNA Club: Formerly Hepburn, known for celebrity DJs (Post #32).
• Tian Gong (TG天宫): Space/Sci-fi themed EDM club (Post #53).
• Aster: Space-themed Hip-hop club (Post #54).
• Omma: Bali-resort vibe, very popular with the international community (Post #22, #26).
• Oasis City (城市绿洲): CBD high-altitude social bar with many international guests (Post #39).

Tips & Insights

• Reservations: For world-renowned bars like Hope & Sesame or high-altitude spots like Too High, booking in advance is mandatory, especially on weekends.
• Pricing: Most high-end cocktail bars range from 120-180 RMB per drink (including service/tax). Nightclubs often have "minimum spend" (low-shao) for tables on weekends, ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 RMB.
• Entry: Many speakeasies have hidden entrances (ice cream shops, bookshelves, or unmarked doors). Don't be afraid to ask security or staff for directions.
• Dress Code: While most venues are casual-smart, hotel bars like the Ritz-Carlton or Rosewood may require a more polished look (no flip-flops/tank tops).

📍 Locations Guide

Note: For more visuals and venue atmospheres, see the image gallery below.

Image Gallery