Face Changing Performance

Nightlife in Chengdu: A Guide for First-Time Visitors

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. The city offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re a fan of lively nightclubs, cultural shows, or relaxing bars, Chengdu has something for everyone. This guide will help you navigate the exciting nightlife in Chengdu.

1. Lively Nightclubs in Chengdu

As night falls, the true essence of life begins in the bustling city. Life shouldn’t be all about work and mundane routines—there should also be moments of joy and indulgence.

At night, the time when you can truly be yourself without pretense, step into a top-notch Nightclubs and savor life. Let yourself be immersed in the music and enchanted by the drinks, as the joy of living reveals itself and life’s happiness unfolds in these moments. So, let us recommend some of the best nightclubs in Chengdu for you to experience

inside a nightclub in Chengdu
Inside a nightclub in Chengdu

Here are six of the best nightclubs in Chengdu:

RankingNightclub Name (English)Nightclub Name (Chinese)Address (English)Address (Chinese)
1Chengdu Haoya Club成都濠雅荟俱乐部Kehua South Road, Wuhou District, Chengdu成都市武侯区科华南路
2Chengdu Yipin Pure KKTV成都一品纯KKTVYipintianxia Street, Jinniu District, Chengdu成都市金牛区一品天下大街
3Chengdu Ruohua Entertainment KTV成都若华娱乐KTVMengzuiwan Street, Chenghua District, Chengdu成都市成华区猛追湾街
4Chengdu Peach Blossom Land Hotel KTV成都世外桃源酒店KTVKehua North Road, Wuhou District, Chengdu成都市武侯区科华北路
5Chengdu Shangri-La Nightclub成都香格里拉夜总会Binjiang East Road, Jinjiang District, Chengdu成都市锦江区滨江东路
6Chengdu Royal No.7 Business Club成都皇家7号商务Huaishu Street, Jinniu District, Chengdu成都市金牛区槐树街

2. Traditional Tea Houses in Chengdu

For a more relaxed evening, visit one of Chengdu’s traditional tea houses. Heming Teahouse in People Park is one of the excellent choices. These teahouses offer a serene environment where you can enjoy a variety of teas and traditional snacks.

Teahouse in Chengdu
Traditional Tea Houses in Chengdu

In addition, they often host cultural performances, such as Sichuan opera and face-changing shows. This provides a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.

Here are the 10 recommneded tea houses in Chengdu:
Tea House Name (English)Tea House Name (Chinese)Description Location and Directions Operating Hours
Heming Teahouse鹤鸣茶社Located in People’s Park, with a history of over a century. Offers tea, ear-cleaning, snacks, and Sichuan opera face-changing and long-spout tea performances.People’s Park, Metro Line 2, Exit B.8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Daci Teahouse大慈茶社Situated in Taikoo Li, blending the tranquility of a temple with a mix of tradition and modernity.Near Chunxi Road Station, Metro Line 2 or 3.8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Chenjin Teahouse陈锦茶铺Found in Tiexiang Temple Water Street, inside a scenic area where you can enjoy tea and stroll around the water street or burn incense.Near Jincheng Lake Station, Metro Line 5, Exit C.10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Guanyinge Old Teahouse观音阁老茶馆Located in Pengzhen, Shuangliu, this authentic century-old tea house offers unlimited refills for 10 RMB per cup.Pengzhen, Shuangliu District.5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Chuanxi Tea Gallery川西茶廊Located in Huanhuaxi Park next to the Qing Shui River, featuring beautiful surroundings.Huanhuaxi Park, Metro Line 2 or 3, Chunxi Road Station.8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Wangjianglou Park Teahouses望江楼公园Found inside Wangjianglou Park, known for its bamboo groves and slow-paced ambiance, ideal for a relaxed experience.Near East Gate of Sichuan University.9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Puzang Reminiscence Teahouse普臧思念人茶屋Near Kuanzhai Alley, with a Japanese-style design, great for photography.Near Kuanzhai Alley.Not specified
Liangwang Teahouse两忘Located on Longquan Mountain, offering fresh air and a tranquil environment to unwind.Longquan Mountain.Not specified
Yaoli Tea House遥里茶事Situated in the High-Tech Zone on Tiexiang Temple Water Street, with an aesthetic and artistic ambiance perfect for photos.High-Tech Zone, Tiexiang Temple Water Street.Not specified
Deyun Tea House得雲茶楼Found in the Taikoo Li district, offering authentic Cantonese-style morning tea.Taikoo Li District.Not specified

3. Bars and Pubs

Chengdu’s bar scene is diverse, ranging from trendy cocktail bars to cozy pubs. The Play House is one of the most vibrant bars in Chengdu, famous for its lively atmosphere and high-quality music.

AI Apocalypse Bar features post-apocalyptic decor designed by the owner. Its weathered, sci-fi-inspired interiors create a unique ambiance for fans of futurism and dystopian themes. These bars provide a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Bar/Pub Name (English)Bar/Pub Name (Chinese)Description
PLAY HOUSEPLAY HOUSEOne of the most vibrant bars in Chengdu, famous for its lively atmosphere and high-quality music. Offers multiple areas: a main hall with a “music festival” vibe, private rooms, and a smaller Korean-style lounge. Open 8:00 PM–6:00 AM.
Lan Kwai Fong兰桂坊A famous bar street in Chengdu, inspired by Hong Kong’s Lan Kwai Fong. Offers diverse bar options, from party hubs to quiet spots. Visitors should be cautious of touts and prioritize personal safety.
Erma Bar贰麻Known for its unique drinks and relaxed vibe. Offers small glasses of flavorful drinks and a lake-view setting, making it a great spot for unwinding. Atmosphere is moderate but distinctive.
Shengtang Bar盛堂Ranked highly for its value and live performances. Known for affordable packages that include beer, fruit, and snacks, making it ideal for group gatherings.
Revolution Bar革命酒吧Once a popular internet-famous bar, the vibe is now average. Recommended to visit on weekdays to avoid overcrowding or disappointment.
Little Garden Bar小花园酒吧Features a unique panda theme and a cozy outdoor garden. While the drink quality is average, its atmosphere and theme make it a must-visit for experiencing Chengdu nightlife.
DUI BarDUI兑Specializes in live and pop music with high-caliber resident singers. Frequently invites celebrities and influencers. The new location boasts excellent lighting and sound, creating an immersive party experience.
CLUB EDMCLUB EDMFocused on top-tier DJs and EDM/House music, this club is gaining popularity for its unique style and photo-worthy ambiance.
Empty Bottle Live House空瓶子Live houseOne of Chengdu’s hottest live houses, located in Taikoo Li. Known for talented resident singers and top-notch sound and lighting equipment, making it a perfect spot for casual gatherings.
Gorilla Bunker猩猩地堡A small hip-hop bar popular among young people. With affordable prices and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s ideal for budget-conscious visitors or university students.
AI Apocalypse Bar科华北路AI末世感酒吧Located in a small alley near the West Gate of Sichuan University, this bar features post-apocalyptic decor designed by the owner. Its weathered, sci-fi-inspired interiors create a unique ambiance for fans of futurism and dystopian themes.
The Future Is Now Bar未来已来酒吧Combines cutting-edge technology with futuristic design. Features dynamic light and shadow effects on the walls, smart sensor-equipped bars, and auto-adjusting chairs. Advanced karaoke systems and immersive sound create a high-tech experience.

These bars showcase Chengdu’s rich and varied nightlife, catering to diverse tastes from normal enthusiasts to technology lovers and partygoers.

4. Night Markets

Exploring Chengdu’s night markets is a fantastic way to experience local culture. Jinli Ancient Street is one of the most famous night markets in Chengdu. Here, you can find a variety of street food, souvenirs, and local crafts.

The night markets in Chengdu
The night markets in Chengdu
Night Market NameAddressOperating HoursFeatures
建设路夜市
Jianshe Road Night Market
Jianshe Road, Chenghua District, ChengduEvening to around 10:00 PMA food paradise offering Sichuan snacks like Bobo Chicken, Brown Sugar Glutinous Rice Cakes, and Dragon Claws. Featured on the TV show Day Day Up.
玉林街夜市
Yulin Street Night Market
Yulin West Road, ChengduWeekends only, evening to around 10:00 PMCaptures the flavor of old Chengdu with stalls offering vintage clothing, floral arrangements, and handmade accessories. Perfect for artsy youth and leisurely strolling.
香香巷
Xiangxiang Lane
Wangping Street, Chenghua District, ChengduEvening to around 10:30 PMShort but vibrant street with Chinese-style decor, neon lights, and a lively atmosphere. Ideal for photography and enjoying local food.
锦里
Jinli Ancient Street
Wuhouci Street, Wuhou District, ChengduOpen all day, especially lively at nightBustling and picturesque at night, featuring nearly 100 shops, diverse snacks, and traditional performances like Sichuan Opera, dough figurines, and Shu embroidery.
交子大道书香市集
Jiaozi Avenue Bookish Market
Jiaozi Avenue, Wuhou District, ChengduEveningA book-themed market with a pet-friendly area, a variety of food and drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere. Great for families and gatherings with friends.

These night markets showcase Chengdu’s rich cultural, culinary, and shopping experiences, making them must-visit destinations for anyone exploring the city.

5. Sichuan Opera Cultural Shows

Cultural shows are a highlight of Chengdu’s nightlife. The Sichuan Opera, known for its face-changing performances, is a must-see. You can watch these performances at Shufeng Yayun Teahouse.

Face changing performance in Chengdu
The face-changing performance

The show includes other traditional acts, such as shadow puppetry and acrobatics. These performances provide a deep insight into Sichuan’s rich cultural heritage and are highly entertaining.

Venue NameShowtimesTicket InformationTransportationNotes
文殊坊的“成都院子”
Chengdu Courtyard at Wenshu Fang
Weekdays: 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 7:30 PM.
Weekends: 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
Tickets vary by type. Recommended to book online in advance.Near Wenshu Monastery. Easily accessible by walking or public transport.Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
蜀风雅韵剧场
Shufeng Yayun Theater
Daily: 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM.Tickets range by type (VIP, A, B). VIP tickets should be booked two weeks in advance. Free tea and snacks provided.Located in the city center. Accessible via metro or bus.Offers face-changing, fire-spitting, tea art, and acrobatics. Professional performances. Pre-book seats for a better experience.
蜀艺剧院
Shuyi Opera Theater
Afternoon and evening shows (specific times vary).Ticket prices vary by type. Seat selection allowed when booking in advance.Located in the city center. Accessible via metro or bus.Features face-changing, fire-spitting, and Flying Dance performances. Suitable for those wanting pre-assigned seating.
Summary:
  • Chengdu Courtyard at Wenshu Fang: A cultural hub near Wenshu Monastery, offering intimate Sichuan Opera shows in a traditional setting.
  • Shufeng Yayun Theater: A professional venue for diverse Sichuan Opera performances, including traditional arts like tea pouring and acrobatics.
  • Shuyi Opera Theater: Known for showcasing heritage performances like face-changing and fire-spitting in a more modern and structured environment.

To fully enjoy Sichuan Opera, plan ahead, book tickets early, and prioritize these trusted venues over unregulated performances in tourist areas.

6. Jinjiang River Night Cruises

A river cruise on the Jinjiang River offers a unique perspective of Chengdu at night. The illuminated skyline and reflections on the water create a magical atmosphere.

These cruises often include live music and dinner, making it a perfect romantic evening. The leisurely pace allows you to relax and enjoy the beauty of Chengdu’s nightscape.

Travel Tips for Taking night Cruises in Chengdu
Transportation
  • Metro: Take Metro Line 2 to “Dongmen Bridge” Station, Exit D. From there, it’s a short walk to Dongmen Pier.
  • Bus: You can also take a bus to nearby stations and walk to Dongmen Pier (东门码头).

Cruise Routes and Ticket Prices
  • Dongmen Pier Route (东门码头游船线路和票价
    The cruise departs from Dongmen Pier, passing Lan Kwai Fong, Hejiang Pavilion, Anshun Lang Bridge, and Jiuyan Bridge before returning to Dongmen Pier. The trip lasts about 30 minutes.
    • Ticket Prices:
      • Adults: ¥118 per person.
      • Children under 1 meter: Free.
      • Discounted price of ¥78 for children 1m–1.5m, seniors 60+, medical workers, teachers, police officers, soldiers, and people with disabilities.
  • Funan River Music Square Pier Route府南河音乐广场码头票价):
    This cruise departs from Music Square Pier, passing Hejiang Pavilion, Water Curtain Fountain, Sailboat Show, and the Architectural Light Show before returning to the pier.
    • Ticket Prices:
      • Daytime cruise: ¥60 per person.
      • Nighttime cruise: ¥120 per person.

Experience and Cultural Highlights
  • Cultural Immersion: A night cruise on the Jin River is more than just a visual experience—it’s a cultural journey. Along the route, you’ll see interactive performances, such as historical character NPCs, creating the feeling of being transported to ancient Chengdu.
  • Photography Spots: The colorful lantern corridor at Dongmen Pier and the poetic night views at Hejiang Pavilion are great for capturing memorable photos.

Practical Tips
  • Dress Warmly: It can be windy at night, so wearing warm clothing is recommended. Life jackets are provided on board to ensure safety.
  • Ticket Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the pier or through the “Night Tour of Jin River” official WeChat account.
Summary:

Chengdu’s night cruises offer a blend of stunning nighttime views and cultural immersion. With routes showcasing iconic landmarks, interactive performances, and picturesque spots, they are a must-do experience for visitors looking to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

7. Rooftop Bars in Chengdu

Rooftop bars in Chengdu offer stunning views of the city skyline. The St. Regis Bar and Mojo Rooftop Bar are popular choices. The St. Regis Bar, located in the St. Regis Hotel, offers panoramic views and an extensive drink menu.

A Rooftop Bar in Chengdu
A Rooftop Bar in Chengdu

Mojo Rooftop Bar, on the other hand, is known for its lively atmosphere and creative cocktails. These bars are perfect for enjoying a drink while taking in the city’s nightscape.

8. Night Walks and Strolls

Chengdu’s streets and parks offer a peaceful environment for nighttime strolls. The Anshun Bridge, with its beautiful lighting, is a popular spot for evening walks.

The Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi) also provide a charming setting for a leisurely stroll. Walking through these areas at night allows you to experience the city’s beauty and tranquility.

9. Comedy Clubs in Chengdu

Chengdu’s comedy clubs offer a night of laughter and entertainment. Clubs like Chengdu Comedy Club and The Comedy Clubhouse host regular stand-up comedy shows.

These clubs feature both local and international comedians, providing a mix of humor styles. A night at a comedy club is a great way to relax and enjoy a good laugh.

10. Night Photography

Chengdu offers numerous opportunities for night photography. The city’s skyline, illuminated bridges, and bustling streets make for stunning photographs.

The Anshun Bridge, Tianfu Square, and Jinjiang River are popular spots for night photography. Joining a night photography tour can help you capture the beauty of Chengdu at night.

11. Social Dancing

Social dancing is a popular evening activity in Chengdu. Many parks and public spaces host nightly dance gatherings. People of all ages participate in these social dances, which include styles like square dancing and ballroom dancing. Joining a dance group can be a fun and engaging way to experience local culture.


Chengdu’s nightlife is vibrant, diverse, and full of exciting experiences. From lively nightclubs and serene tea houses to bustling night markets and cultural shows, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a night of dancing, a cultural performance, or a relaxing evening with friends, Chengdu has it all.

For first-time visitors, exploring the nightlife in Chengdu provides a deeper understanding of the city’s dynamic culture and offers countless memorable moments. So, get ready to dive into the nightlife in Chengdu and create unforgettable experiences.

More Chengdu Travel Guides

Plan your Chengdu Tour? Our Chengdu Travel Guide section offers essential advice to help you navigate the city like a pro. Welcome to the Chengdu Travel Guide, your ultimate resource for exploring the vibrant heart of Sichuan Province. Known as the home of the giant pandas and the birthplace of spicy Sichuan cuisine, Chengdu is a city where ancient traditions meet modern life.

Direct International Flights to ChengduTop 10 Attractions in Chengdu
What to Pack for a Trip to ChengduChengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
How to Go to Chengdu from Other Major Cities in China?How to Visit Wuhou Shrine
Best Time to Visit ChengduHow to Visit Jinli Ancient Street
Chengdu Weather Guide: Essential Tips for Foreign TouristsHow to Visit Leshan Giant Buddha
Best Ways to Travel Around ChengduHow to Visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Must-Try Local Dishes in ChengduHow to Visit Chengdu People’s Park
Nightlife in Chengdu: A Guide for First-Time VisitorsHow to Visit Kuanzhai Alley
Best Inns and Hotels in ChengduHow to Visit Qingcheng Mountain
What to Buy from ChengduHow to Visit Jinsha Site Museum
Safety Tips for Chengdu VisitorsHow to Visit Du Fu Thatched Cottage
Lifestyle in Chengdu: A Guide for First-Time VisitorsMust-See Local Festivals in Chengdu for an Authentic Experience
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