5 Hidden Beijing Hutong Bars: Your Must-Visit Nightlife Guide for 2026
- Bite Escape-Lin
- Aug 21, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 20, 2025
Beijing’s nightlife isn’t only about flashy clubs or rooftop bars. Some of the city’s most memorable nights happen deep inside its hutongs — narrow alleyways where centuries of history meet live music, craft beer, and creative cocktails.
Hidden behind unmarked doors and quiet courtyards, these hutong bars are loved by locals who know where to look. If you want to experience a more authentic side of Beijing after dark, this guide will point you in the right direction.
5 Hidden Hutong Bars in Beijing Loved by Locals
1. Modernista — Jazz, Cocktails & Bohemian Vibe
Why we love it
Modernista is one of the most vibrant hutong bars in Beijing. Set inside a historic courtyard building, it blends old-world charm with a creative, bohemian atmosphere. Live music is the soul of the venue, ranging from jazz and swing to indie bands and late-night DJs.
The crowd is international yet relaxed, and it’s common to see people dancing, chatting, and staying well past midnight.
Must-try
Modernista Cocktail
Save the Elephants
Shop info
Average price: ¥130 RMB per person
Opening hours: 18:00–02:00 (Tue–Sun)
Address: No. 44, Baochao Hutong, Dongcheng District
2. Great Leap Brewing (Doujiao Hutong) — The Courtyard Craft Beer Pioneer
Why we love it
Great Leap Brewing is one of Beijing’s earliest craft beer brands, and the Doujiao Hutong branch remains a favorite among locals. Located in a traditional courtyard, it’s a laid-back place to enjoy well-crafted beer in a classic Beijing setting.
Their beers often incorporate Chinese ingredients, offering something familiar yet distinctly local.
Must-try
Fu Zi Beer — with Sichuan peppercorn and honey
Banana Wheat
Liu Yong Dark Ale
Light Ale No. 6
Shop info
Average price: ¥100 RMB per person
Opening hours:Sun–Thu: 14:00–23:00Fri–Sat: 14:00–00:00
Address: No. 6, Doujiao Hutong, Dongcheng District
3. Peiping Machine (Nafu Hutong) — Industrial Charm & Chinese Fusion Brews
Why we love it
Peiping Machine’s Nafu Hutong location is housed in a renovated factory-style space that blends industrial design with Beijing character. The beer menu is creative, often combining traditional Chinese flavors with Western brewing techniques.
It’s a great spot if you enjoy trying something different while sharing snacks and conversations with friends.
Must-try
Mingqian Longjing Wheat
Mung Bean Paste Wheat
Jianbing Guozi
Shop info
Average price: ¥120–150 RMB per person
Opening hours: 16:00–01:30
Address: No. 13, Nafu Hutong, Dongcheng District
4. Tiao Hai (Chongwenmen) — Community Beer Bar & Themed Events
Why we love it
Tiao Hai feels more like a friend’s living room than a bar. It’s a community-style space where people come to relax, talk, and meet new faces over craft beer and cocktails.
The bar regularly hosts themed events such as open mic nights, movie screenings, and small gatherings. Checking their social media before visiting is a good idea.
Must-try
Hong Fu Ye Ben
Buddha’s Hand, Pomelo, and Jasmine
Blind Box of Four Draft Beers
Shop info
Average price: ¥80–100 RMB per person
Opening hours:Mon–Thu & Sun: 18:00–01:00Fri–Sat: 18:00–02:00
Address: No. 7, Dongxiaoshi Street, Dongcheng District
5. School (Wudaoying Branch) — Beijing’s Iconic Rock Livehouse
Why we love it
School is one of Beijing’s most iconic underground live music venues. Hidden inside Wudaoying Hutong, it’s known for loud performances, raw energy, and a loyal local following.
Bands perform almost every night, making it an essential stop if you want to experience Beijing’s alternative music scene.
Must-try
Wheat Craft Beer
Kansas Sausage
Shop info
Average price: ¥80–150 RMB per person
Opening hours: 20:00–00:00
Address: No. 53, Wudaoying Hutong, Dongcheng District
Tips for Exploring Beijing Hutong Bars & Nightlife
Getting around
Hutongs can be confusing, especially at night. Navigation apps are useful, and don’t be surprised if you miss the entrance the first time — many bars keep their signage discreet.
Timing matters
Popular hutong bars and livehouses get crowded on weekends and performance nights. Arriving earlier or visiting on a weekday usually means a more relaxed experience.
Take it slow
Part of the charm of Beijing hutong nightlife is wandering. You might step out of a bar and find a quiet temple, a late-night snack stall, or locals chatting in a courtyard nearby.
Final Tip
Many of the best hutong bars are easy to miss but hard to forget. If it’s your first time exploring Beijing nightlife, pairing hutong bars with a local food or nightlife experience can make the night feel more relaxed and meaningful. A local guide can help you navigate hidden alleys, avoid tourist traps, and discover places you might otherwise walk past without noticing.
Whether you wander on your own or explore with locals, slow down, stay curious, and let the hutongs set the rhythm for your night in Beijing.
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