VIBE

Painfully hip live music venue that’s popular with the rocker-chic in-crowd for its outstanding and eclectic lineup of performances. Expect everything from Tibetan folk music to the finest DJs the Swedish underground has ever produced, though the meat and potatoes of the scheduling is up-and-coming local bands. The sprawling Qing Dynasty mansion setting is surprisingly posh for such an indie-kid spot. Atmospheric traditional touches accent rock club standards like a killer sound system and a polished concrete bar.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Go indie-rocker chic. The hipsters who pack in favor skinny jeans, ironic t-shirts, funky sneakers, and outrageous glasses. Though we'd stick to skinny jeans, we’d branch out from their “uniform” with eye-catching arty accessories.

GO HERE WITH

Fans of Chinese rock; friends; a date

CROWD

International mix of trendy in-the-know 20- and 30-somethings. It’s a popular hangout for local creative types looking to score a gig or scope the competition.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Definitely the best live music venue in town, and a refreshing change from the lasers and techno beats that dominate most of Beijing’s clubs. We also really dig getting a taste of the local music scene–Chinese rock is seriously cool stuff.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

It can be hard to see the stage when it’s crowded–get there early for popular shows, or you’ll be stuck in the back.

GOOD TO KNOW

If the warm-up bands aren’t really up to snuff, head to the quiet upstairs lounge–good spot for a chill drink. Performances vary nightly–check their online listings for info. If you’re into local rock club history, Yu Gong Yi Shan used to be near the Workers’ Stadium but got bulldozed out of existence for an Olympic development project…that’s what prompted the move to their current (much nicer) digs.