Nightclubs in China are insane!
When I tell my friends back home about it, it’s hard for them to imagine exactly what these clubs are and what they look like.
Here is the Top 10 of the best clubs in China!
Table of Contents
Clubbing in China, What to expect
Nightlife in China is quite different from that in Western countries.
It’s different, but clubbing in a Chinese nightclub is a wild experience.
It is all about entertainment and bringing that to the next level. Clubs compete on who has the best act and show, which forces every club to step up their game.
One of the first things you will notice is the abundance of tables. In this aspect, a club in China is very different from a club in Western countries.
There isn’t a dance floor.
Chinese club visitors rent a table for the night where they will first hang out for a bit and have some drinks to get in the mood. Later, as the night progresses, visitors will stand on the tables and couches, where they will dance and enjoy the night.
So, almost no one is walking around except when they need to go to the bathroom.
So, isn’t there a dancefloor at all? Well, most of the time, there is a tiny space right in front of the DJ near the bar.
This is where foreign travelers often enjoy the night.
The reason for this odd setup? Tables can cost 1000 to 5000 dollars for 1 night (!) and that isn’t even including drinks. So as you can imagine for many travelers visiting a club and renting table this is too expensive.
Chinese Night Clubs, What to do and what not to do
As Chinese nightclubs are very different from clubs in Western countries, it is always a good idea to have an idea of things that are ok and not.
First of all, as is everywhere in China, clubs are very safe. You will not have to be afraid of getting in trouble of any kind.
Second, respect the tables and the area that is part of it. If you’re invited to a table it is fine to join them but otherwise don’t enter the area of any rented tables.
Third, waiters that are walking around are not available to bring a drink they work for the tables that are rented out. You’ll most likely have to get your drink at the bar.
Fourth, enjoy and have a great time. Chinese folks who are out clubbing love a good drink!
Nightclubs in China: Club Master – Shanghai #1
Ok, number 1 on the list! I worked at this nightclub in China for one year as a consultant and resident DJ. It was a unique experience being the only foreigner working there!
This club has the most astonishing interior you can imagine. The ceiling and walls have been fully covered by so-called ‘moving heads’, lights that can change any color and go into any direction .The lights are programmed to move in a specific way to create the illusion of light being bent! It’s a one-of-a-kind system that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. No wonder they called it Club Master.
The light system was designed by the Japanese company TeamLab. They have expositions where you can get lost in a world of lights and illusions.They even have shows with full orchestras combined with DJs and electronic music.
You can imagine that this is the most expensive club of China. And perhaps the best club in china.
Overall, going out clubbing in big clubs in China is safe, but there are some safety precautions to take.
This club is the definition of Chinese clubbing and is definitely among the best clubs in China.
The main room is enormous in the shape of a diamond where mostly EDM and club music is being played. Behind the main romo there is a hiphop area, and there even is a small techno area.
If you’re looking for the real Chinese night life you’ll find it here.
Space Plus – Guangzhou #2
It’s one of the biggest clubs in China, with a capacity of 4000 people and a LED screen bigger than 3 cinemas combined.
Not only is the club big, but the service is also next-level. While going to the toilet, you will get a neck massage, chewing gum, and some perfume while standing there having a tinkle! I’ve experienced it myself—crazy!
There are literally hundreds of servants, cleaners, and waiters who will help you with anything. After you go to the bathroom, they will guide you back to your area. Oh, did you drink too much? No problem. We’ll help you get to the bar or get back on your feet. Do you need ice? A towel? or hold your phone for a minute? No problem.
Space Plus is a brand of clubs you can find in many other cities like Shanghai, Changsha, Chongqing, Wuhan and Nanjing. More info can be found here.
Playhouse – Chengdu #3
Playhouse is one of the most famous club brands in China.
They have been on top of the game for many years, and it shows because they genuinely know how to set up an event with a next level party vibe.
The show elements are insane they have, dancers, flames, inflatables, MCs, teddy bears, fireworks, confetti, lasers, rows of 10 champagne bottles brought by dancers, and so on…
Playhouse has clubs in cities like Chengdu, Changsha, Chongqing and Xian.
Exit – Changsha #4
One of the best clubs in China is Club Exit. Most clubs in China have a similar setup, except Club Exit in Changsha.
It’s best described as a vast underground German techno club, but in China, it comes with the biggest LED screen you can imagine. It looks like a long, rectangle-shaped Batman cave in the future where you can wander in the dark.
I’ve had some crazy nights in this club. I sometimes wonder why there aren’t any clubs like this in Europe!
This club shows that Chinese clubs are always looking to improve and stand out from the others.
The China night life in Changsha is definitely alive!
Illusion Pro – Wuhan #5
The first time I played here, I thought I was tripping when I saw the whole ceiling coming down.
At first, it looked like a regular club, but 15 minutes into my show, boom! The en-ti-re light system came down and changed into small cubes with visuals.
I was blown away.
When I finished, I went to the green room (the room where the guest DJ can relax), and I was blown away again. The room was filled with LED stripes like one big LED cube. It was like I was transported from the club lights into the light cubes!
The nightlife in China and Wuhan specific is incredible.
One Third – Kunming #6
In the southwest of China, near the borders of Vietnam and Myanmar, lies the city Kunming.
When I arrived at the airport, a club employee picked me up. As humble and polite Chinese people are, he welcomes me and apologizes for arriving in such a small city. He says only 7 million people are living in Kunming… 7 million! That’s almost half of The Netherlands!
When we walked into the green room, I was amazed at what they had arranged for me. The club owner made a 3 x 3-meter big poster with photos from my previous shows. I couldn’t believe what I saw. I felt truly honored.
One Third is one of those Chinese club brands that have been there from the very beginning. It’s a well-established brand that knows how to organize insane events; the hospitality couldn’t be better.
Warehouse Galame – Foshan #7
As the name says, it’s an underground warehouse! It isn’t famous for its lights or gigantic LED screen. But this is a location where only true ravers and music lovers come to.
There’s an atmosphere that you will not find in most other clubs. The visitors will know the music and lyrics by heart.
Rooftop Bar – Shanghai The Bund #8
Ok, ok, it’s a rooftop bar… but it must be mentioned in the Top 10.
It’s surrounded by skyscrapers decorated with LED screens and has a view over the famous Bund area. I was in awe when I walked up to the dance floor.
Absolutely stunning and mesmerizing to see the entire city center filled with lights… while enjoying the cheapest beer from the menu, of course… because, well, you know 💸.
D5 – Liuzhou #9
Another “small” city, with only 2,2 million residents!
Like most clubs, this club has an impressive LED screen, but this was the highest I have ever seen!
I would say it’s about 10 meters high, which is just mind-blowing. Not to mention the sound system
First Club – Changzhou #10
Changzhou is a kind of unknown small city close to Shanghai. But, even the smallest towns in China have the most insane clubs.
This is one of my personal favorites. It’s not as extreme and over-the-top as most other clubs, but it has the right mix of everything.
Final Thoughts on Nightclubs in China
Some of the most unique and expensive nightclubs in the world are in China.
The way these nightclubs are designed and decorated is really impressive. They pay close attention to every detail, which creates an atmosphere that makes people feel like they’re in another world.
All the clubs I’ve been to work hard to ensure their guests’ safety and enjoyment. Security measures and rules are strict to ensure that people can go to the party without worrying about their safety.
Whether you live in the area or are just visiting, the nightclubs in China are a must-see for anyone who wants to experience this hidden world.
Going clubbing in China is a great experience, but there are some small safety precautions to keep in mind.
Moving Jack
Hi! I’m Chris, a traveler who’s explored over 40 countries and lived in fascinating places across Asia and the Middle East. Featured by top travel outlets, I’m here to offer real insights, hidden places, and practical tips to make the most of your travels. Let’s go!