Temple Bar is a Gulou institution. The live music bar is a pillar of the local scene, supporting grassroots music and new bands as well as booking the odd international headliner.

Music aside, the bar is a reliable late-night party hangout, with a good alternative crowd and decent, well-priced drinks. The place always has a crackling atmosphere, especially on weekends when the bar often stays open up to first light. Whether you’re looking for a break from electronic music or a livelier atmosphere than the area’s hit- and-miss hipster hangouts, Temple is as much a go-to as your favorite pair of worn, ratty jeans.

Indeed, Temple has a solid musical pedigree. Set just west of NLGX, Temple is located on the second floor of a courtyard above the nightclub Dada. The unassuming entrance leads up to a large interior with a smattering of sofas and tables, as well as a low stage. Along one wall stretches a long bar, serving well-priced mixed drinks plus a selection of whiskies, high-end vodka, and a good selection of beers on tap. The bar also boasts over 100 shooters that are guaranteed to get the party started.

Inside, the interior remains congruent with the Gulou surroundings; the red walls and wooden hangings evoke a traditional temple, albeit one packed to the rafters with sweaty headbangers.

Address: 206 Gulou Dong Dajie, Dongcheng District 东城区鼓楼东大街206号

Source: timeoutbeijing.com