Houhai Bar Street in Shichahai Area is a lively area known for its diverse bars and unique nightlife, offering something for everyone. While the drinks here can be pricey – cocktails can go for over 100 RMB and beers for around 50 RMB – the real draw is the live music. Most bars have no minimum consumption requirement, but if you want to stay longer to enjoy the music, you might be asked to order more drinks or leave. Typically, for two to three people, the cost can easily exceed 1000 RMB for a three-hour stay. Though the drinks themselves may not always impress, the atmosphere and performances make the experience worthwhile, especially if you’re a music lover. Here are some recommended bars to check out for a great night out.
Top Recommendations:
Wan Ting Ge (晚庭阁): This bar tops the list for one reason—four incredibly talented and good-looking singers. The performances are not only musically impressive, but the performers’ charisma and charm are off the charts. With performers like “Handsome Brother No. 3,” the cute and tough “Tu Tu,” and the dashing “Mr. Zhao,” Wan Ting Ge is a must-visit just for the sheer entertainment value. Even if you’re there just for the music, the atmosphere created by these performers is worth the visit!
Lihuo Fenghuang (烈火凤凰): Another fantastic spot featuring four male singers who truly know how to captivate an audience. Their songs, particularly the rap performances, are impressive. If you’re a fan of live music, especially rap, this bar is a great choice. Plus, it’s conveniently located right next to Wan Ting Ge, so you can easily hop between the two bars for a full night of entertainment.
Other Bars in Houhai:
Yinhai Xuan (银海轩): Known for its rock performances, Yinhai Xuan features two resident singers, both in their 30s, who deliver solid performances. The venue itself is spacious and can accommodate a larger crowd.
Yinding Qiaotou (银锭桥头): This bar is notable for its four female singers, who offer a diverse range of music styles. Their performances are generally well-received, and it’s a good spot to experience some variety.
Houhai Folk Music Bar (后海民谣): A great place for fans of folk music. The three performers here do a fantastic job, especially when performing songs by Zhao Lei, such as the popular “Drum Tower.”
Ting Yue (听月): The performances at Ting Yue can be hit or miss. On some nights, the music and singer selection might fall a little short, with certain songs like “Youth Training Manual” sounding slightly off-key.
San Ren Xing (三人行): The performances here are generally average. The male singer often sounds tired, with his voice becoming hoarse and monotonous during the set.
Shan Hai (山海): What makes Shan Hai stand out is its separate spaces for folk and pop music, divided by a glass door that ensures no sound crossover. The environment is clean and the music decent, making it a comfortable place to enjoy a night out.