As a landmark of Beijing’s nightlife, the Gulou area boasts various bars and night clubs like the Mao Live House, Jiangjinjiu, Jianghu, Bed, Mai, and a bunch of small taverns along Nanluoguxiang.

To have the ultimate fun, you’d better not learn from those veteran night owls who would never stay the whole night at one taproom, because there are so many amazing stuff out there. If you are an only bar animal, then the Houhai Bar Street is a better and quieter place for you while Gulou is a night carnival. It’s said that old stores are the deepest background of a city’s memory. As for Gulou, its history is recorded by the stores which lines up Zhonglou, Gulou, and Gulou East Street.

Bandsmen and music fans usually enter the street from the east end where they can shop some guitar strings and picks. At the middle section of the street locates the famous Colores Café & Bar and Café Zarah. Snacks like Shandong style steamed bun with vegetable & meat stuffing and Sichuan style spicy bean jelly are popular among residence and travelers.

Continue walking westward you will spot the program paper posted outside of the Mao Live House, a rock haven. If you wanna something more artistic, you are suggested to head for the Amial where Arus, photographer and owner, will offer all kinds of vintage stuff and amazing photos. Beneath it on the ground floor locates the You Hao Hua Jia Store that houses all kinds of fancy bags, clothes, and crafts.

When it comes to dinner time, you are suggested to have a try of the fish at the ‘秋刀鱼の味' and the old-Beijing style hotpot at Gulou East street.

Where to Live:Apartment with Old Beijing Flavor