Stepping out in Xi’an

You could easily make the mistake that Xi’an is all about classical culture. While the city exudes a sense of history, it is also full of the excitement of any modern metropolis. Its active nightlife is an experience for any traveller and, after a long day of sight seeing, there’s nothing better than going out on the town and absorbing the true soul of the city. Discover for yourself a few ways to revel in the spirit of Xi’an when the sun sets.

Bars

There’s a good selection of bars around town and, if you don’t know where to start, you can always head to De Fu Xiang Street for a few laid back drinks. Here, you’ll find almost 20 bars next to one another, including De Fu Lou Café & Bar, which is one of the first bars to ever open in the city. It’s a favourite for locals – and sports fans will be pleased to know they screen football most nights.

For something with a relaxed vibe, Vice Versa near the Forest of Steles Museum has a relaxed atmosphere that attracts a healthy mix of residents and visitors. A cultural blend of East and West, it functions as a café and restaurant during the day, but at night transforms into a lively bar serving a mix of Western and Asian beers and cocktails. If only a pint of the real stuff will do, head to The Belgian Bar. Boasting a huge selection of hoppy brews and an envious location facing the city wall, it’s the perfect place to enjoy good company while appreciating Xi’an’s sights.

Theatres and Concerts

As you’d expect from a city with such a rich history, it’s possible to see dance and music faithful to Xi’an’s illustrious past. Colourful, bold and full of ornate costumes and props, Tang Dynasty Dance and Music Palace showcases some of the best traditional Chinese opera from over a thousand years ago. Each dance has an air of authenticity, as it has been recreated using various historical records as well as ancient art and relics discovered in Xi’an. To complete the excursion, opt for a combined dinner and show ticket, where the enticing prospect of a tasty dumpling meal before the main event completes a magical evening out.

Shaanxi Grand Opera House also has a renowned reputation: blending poetry with skilled playing of musical instruments, singing, dancing and equally stunning garbs, the shows give you an impressive view of ancient China and its distinct customs.

For something a bit off the beaten tourist track, Yisu She is home to one the oldest drama societies in China. Revered for its style of Qin Opera that originated in the Shaanxi province, this theatre is one of the most attended by the regional populace – perfect for going native and seeing a bit of behind-the-scenes culture.

Cinemas

If you want to improve your command of the local language, there’s no better way to take in the genuine Mandarin dialect than seeing one the latest cinematic releases.

Recently renovated, Hongguang Cinema now has six lavish show halls, all equipped with digital stereophonic facilities and embellished by gold décor. But you needn’t move on from the venue after the movie, as film fanatics can enjoy themselves in the cinema's other facilities, including its karaoke rooms, dance floor, tea house and bar. Oscar International Cinema is another five-star cinema located conveniently in the city centre, boasting equally impressive dining, shopping and a few other extras. Its stunning audio-visual add another dimension to your viewing, making a visit to the Oscar International essential.

Wanda Cinema is one of the most-visited cinemas and plays both new Chinese movies as well as popular international films. You can even catch your favourite picture in 3D here, so if there’s a must-see blockbuster showing, you can don your specs and watch it in comfort. For those who like the flair of something a bit more retro, Xi’an Bell Tower Cinema has a slightly more worn-in vibe and is conveniently located near one of the city’s most-visited monuments. Pop by after taking in the beauty of the Bell Tower itself for a fun-filled day out.

Nightclubs

Hands down, the most popular hotspot in Xi’an is 1+1: two dance floors play a mixture of J-Pop and hip hop, while a relaxed open-air bar on the fifth floor has live music every night. You’ll find a lot of tourists here, so you’ll definitely make a friend or two while you get your party on. You can also sashay to some Latino music at Havana Bar in the Sofitel Hotel. With a Colombian band and great cocktails, you can try your hand at some salsa while sipping a Cuba Libre or mojito.

If you just want to get into the groove and do some serious moves on the dance floor, then Ku La La regularly features an extensive roster of DJs and is all about current Chinese dance music. Salsa is also extremely fashionable and your best bet for a fun visit is on Friday and Saturday nights. The dance floor is usually less crowded, so you will have a bit more room to throw some shapes, but get there early as they sometimes decide to limit the number of people allowed in.