Nightlife

Clubbing

Shenzhen’s clubland is a see-and be-seen party of laser light shows, mirrored surfaces, big room EDM music and champagne by the bucket load.

Most venues expect you to pay for a table by shelling out for a bottle of spirits and mixers and a platter of fruit, but you can usually also perch at the bar, or just flit between tables like a boozed-up butterfly. The go-to club for all of the above at time of research was Superface.

If you’re less about the lasers and more about the music, try Oil – arguably one of the best underground clubs in all of China – or Vinylhouse.

Karaoke

Karaoke (KTV) remains a hugely popular pastime in China, and Shenzhen has plenty of places where you can rent a windowless room to warble songs with a group of friends, and have drinks and fruit brought in.

Most KTV joints have at least a few English-language songs on file, mostly at the Lady Gaga end of the spectrum.

Live music

For indie bands and underground DJs, Shenzhen is becoming a mandatory China tour stop, after Beijing and Shanghai. If you happen to be in town in May or October, cross your fingers that your visit coincides with the city's two excellent homegrown festivals, OCT Loft Jazz Festival and Tomorrow Music Festival.

No matter the time of the year you can catch live house bands at venues all over town (especially in hotel bars).

One of the best spots is Terrace at Shekou Sea World – the house band takes to the stage every night from 10 p.m. and never fails to get the place bouncing.