The arrival of sunset turns Beijing into a city of opposites. The walls of the Forbidden City glow a soft red, while glass towers in the CBD shine bright against the night sky. Take to the streets and you’ll see neon lights competing with centuries of history. The sizzle of food at night markets blends with the quiet of old hutong alleys. For anyone exploring things to do in Beijing at night, there is no shortage of choices. From street food to opera and river cruises, the city reveals new layers after dark. This guide will help you plan a safe and memorable evening, showing how to enjoy a few nights in Beijing to the fullest.
Classic Night Fun (Worth Checking Out!)
Jingshan Park
Chinese Kung Fu, Peking Opera, and Acrobatics
Shows are a staple of nightlife in Beijing, and each showcases a unique aspect of the city’s culture. A ticket for the famous Kung Fu show at the Red Theatre is about ¥280. It combines martial arts with dance and dramatic storytelling, a family-friendly choice that’s thrilling and easy to follow.
Chaoyang Theatre acrobatics is another spectacle not to be missed. The nightly shows, for ¥200–300, feature daring flips, balancing acts, and high-energy routines. Both children and adults enjoy these shows full of surprises.
For something more traditional, the Peking Opera at the Liyuan Theatre inside Jianguo Hotel is a classic, often paired with beer and peanuts. Visitors can even watch performers apply makeup or don costumes before the curtain rises. All shows have ticket-only options, bookable in advance via CTrip for better seats. If you’re thinking about what to do in Beijing at night with a cultural touch, these shows are ideal.
Jingshan Park to See the Forbidden City at Night
If one image captures Beijing at night, this is it — the panoramic view of the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park. Arrive before sunset to climb the hill and see the golden glow fade to black. The higher you go, the more rooftops appear beneath you, giving photographers a perfect angle to frame the city’s timeless beauty.
When the lights go on in the palace, the red walls and yellow roofs sparkle against the indigo sky. Tickets are only ¥2–10, making this one of the cheapest nighttime things to do in Beijing. Couples, families, and photo enthusiasts all find the view unforgettable, especially as the skyline beyond the Forbidden City begins to sparkle. For most visitors, it’s one of the most photogenic things to do in Beijing at night.
Simatai Great Wall Night Tour
Simatai, about 120 kilometers from the city center, is the only section of the Great Wall open at night. Pathways glow softly under lights, and the ancient stones gleam mysteriously in the starlight. It’s a blend of history and natural beauty that few places can rival.
Admission for a night ticket is around ¥180, and booking ahead is essential due to limited entry. Shuttle buses and private cars make the journey manageable for an evening visit. For those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, nothing beats Simatai at night. Out of all the fun things to do in Beijing at night, this is by far the most daring.
If hiking the Great Wall is on your bucket list, don’t miss — The Best Great Wall Hiking Routes in Beijing: Tips & Camping Guide (2025)
Midnight Bites & Market Delights (A Must-Try!)
Ghost Street
Ghost Street Hotpot and Crayfish
Ghost Street (Guijie) is widely known as Beijing’s late-night food heaven. Red lanterns decorate the street, and most windows are fogged from bubbling hotpot broth. The scent of garlic and chili on spicy crayfish drifts through the air, drawing you toward packed tables.
Expect to pay about ¥150 per person. More than a quick meal, it offers a glimpse into local nightlife and remains one of the most popular things to do in Beijing at night.
Wangfujing Snack Street and Donghuamen Market
Wangfujing is one of Beijing’s busiest streets, and its snack section shines at night. Stalls serve candied hawthorns, sticky rice rolls, and pancakes to crowds of locals and tourists.
Prices are low, and the bright lights make exploring simple. Donghuamen adds a daring twist with skewers of scorpions or silkworm pupae priced ¥10–30. While not for everyone, they make fun photo opportunities. Together, these markets are foodie-friendly things to do in Beijing at night.
Hutong Breweries and BBQ
For a local experience, visit the hutongs near Drum Tower or Nanluoguxiang. Narrow alleys fill with bars, BBQ stalls, and casual eateries. Jing-A and Great Leap Brewing are two popular stops for craft beers and skewers.
Plan around ¥100 per person. The lantern-lit tables and cozy vibe make hutong dining one of the most authentic things to do in Beijing at night.
If you’re curious about what locals really eat in Beijing, read — Top Local Delicacies to Try During Food Tours in Beijing China
Offbeat and Unique Experiences (Worth Checking Out!)
Liangma River
Liangma River Cruises with Dinner
The embassy area along the Liangma River attracts night owls, and the calm water reflects colorful lights. A dinner cruise offers a romantic and leisurely way to see this side of Beijing. Tickets are around ¥120 per person, usually including both Chinese and Western meals.
Couples love the peaceful setting, while families appreciate the slower pace after a busy day of sightseeing. Boarding points are easy to reach by taxi, and cruises last one to two hours. It’s a quick but memorable choice among romantic things to do in Beijing at night.
Hot Springs and Spas
After a day of temples or museums, many locals relax at a hot spring. Jiuhua Spa Resort and Longmai Hot Springs are the most popular, offering outdoor pools, indoor baths, and massage services at about ¥200–300 per person.
The water stays warm year‑round, making hot springs especially appealing in winter. These resorts are outside the city, so arrange transport in advance. For visitors, soaking in a hot spring is more than rest — it’s a cultural ritual, and one of the most soothing things to do in Beijing at night.
Private Tea Ceremonies and 24-Hour Bookstores
For a calmer evening, stop at Lao She Teahouse. Join a private tea ceremony to learn brewing traditions while sampling different teas. Folk music performances sometimes add to the experience.
Another option is Sanlian Bookstore, one of the few open 24 hours. At night, visitors read, sip coffee, or enjoy the quiet. Both offer a reflective close to the day, balancing the high energy of markets and shows. For book lovers, this is one of the most thoughtful things to do in Beijing at night.
City Lights & Night Walks (A Must-See!)
Tiananmen Square
Sanlitun Nightlife and Shopping
Sanlitun is often called Beijing’s trendiest nightlife hub. The Taikoo Li shopping mall, stylish bars, and international restaurants are all here. The mix of dining and nightlife makes it a magnet for young travelers seeking energy and fun.
Plan on spending ¥200–400 per person depending on your choices. Shop in the afternoon, then stay for cocktails and music into the night. For those curious about stylish things to do in Beijing at night, Sanlitun is a top choice.
Olympic Park and Bird’s Nest Light Show
The Olympic Park is one of Beijing’s most striking modern landmarks. At night, the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube shine in colorful patterns that change with the seasons. Reflections on the pools make it a favorite for photographers looking for postcard shots.
Entry is free, and the subway stops right at the gates. Evening walks are calm yet dramatic, giving travelers a chance to admire illuminated architecture. For photo lovers, this is one of the best things to do in Beijing at night.
Tiananmen Square and Chang’an Avenue Night Walk
A night walk at Tiananmen Square feels solemn. The vast open space is majestic, with the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum glowing brightly on either side.
Step onto Chang’an Avenue and the mood shifts. The boulevard sparkles with bright lights and steady traffic, showing Beijing’s modern rhythm. This walk is free and remains one of the most iconic things to do in Beijing at night.
Suggested Itinerariesfor Things to Do in Beijing at Night
Suggested Itineraries
One-Night Food Crawl: Ghost Street + Wangfujing + Hutong Bar
Spend your evening with spicy crayfish at Ghost Street, a classic late-night spot. Red lanterns glow, steam rises from hotpot stalls, and the lively chatter creates a festive mood. This street feels like the heartbeat of Beijing’s food culture.
Continue to Wangfujing Snack Street for local favorites such as candied hawthorns, fried dumplings, and sticky rice rolls. It feels like walking through a street fair, with competing aromas pulling you in different directions. End the night at a hutong brewery near Drum Tower, sipping craft beer in a lantern-lit alley. For food lovers, this is one of the tastiest things to do in Beijing at night.
Two-Night Culture & Performance: Opera + Kung Fu + Jingshan
On the first night, dive into Beijing’s performing arts. Watch the Red Theatre Kung Fu Show or the Peking Opera at Liyuan Theatre, both with English subtitles to guide visitors. These shows mix culture with excitement, making them ideal even for first-time travelers.
On the second night, head to Jingshan Park before sunset. Climb the hill, find a prime spot, and watch as the golden sky fades and palace lights switch on. The panoramic view of the Forbidden City glowing against the skyline is unforgettable. This short plan balances performance with scenery, and remains one of the most memorable things to do in Beijing at night.
Three-Night Deep Dive: Great Wall + Tea + Hot Springs
For a deeper journey, spend the first night on a Simatai Great Wall night tour. Illuminated towers and starlit skies create an atmosphere that feels both historic and magical.
On the second night, slow down with a private tea ceremony at Lao She Teahouse or linger in a 24-hour bookstore. Both provide a cultural pause and a slower rhythm. The final night can be spent relaxing at Jiuhua Spa Resort or Longmai Hot Springs, where outdoor pools and massages last late into the evening. This three-night plan blends adventure, tradition, and leisure, highlighting some of the most unique things to do in Beijing at night.
Handy Travel Tips for Beijing Nights
Getting Around the City at Night
Most subway lines close by 11 p.m., so plan ahead. For late hours, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are the best choice. They’re affordable, simple to use with English-friendly apps, and drivers are familiar with major tourist sites. In central areas, walking is fine as streets are well lit, but always budget for a taxi if you’re heading farther away.
Tip: Take a screenshot of your hotel address in Chinese to show drivers. Carry a metro card if you plan to mix subway with taxi rides.
Language and Payments
Popular night spots such as Sanlitun bars or Wangfujing snack stalls often provide English menus. International visitors can now link foreign credit cards to Alipay and WeChat Pay, making it easy to pay for food, drinks, and tickets. Carry some yuan for smaller vendors who may not accept mobile payments, but most transactions are digital.
Tip: Download Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip and set up card binding early to save time at busy stalls.
Safety Tips for Night Travelers
Beijing is safe at night, with visible police patrols in busy districts. Still, crowded markets and subways can attract pickpockets, so keep valuables close and avoid carrying too much cash. Solo female travelers should stick to lively neighborhoods and take taxis or Didi after midnight. Main roads and well‑lit areas are the safest choice.
Tip: Save emergency numbers in your phone, and choose hotels near subway lines or main streets for easier late‑night access.
FAQs: Everything You Wonder About Beijing Nights
Is Beijing safe at night?
Beijing is one of the less risky cities to walk after dark. Streets such as Wangfujing and Sanlitun are bustling and well-lit, with visible police patrols. That said, pickpockets can appear in crowded markets or subway stations. Solo travelers, especially women, should take a taxi or Didi for late-night travel. Walking in the city center is generally safe if you keep a firm grip on your belongings.
Where are the best night markets for first-time visitors?
Ghost Street is the best option for newcomers, famous for hotpot and spicy crayfish. Wangfujing Snack Street is another essential, offering candied hawthorns alongside adventurous snacks like fried insects. Both markets are tourist-friendly and easy to navigate, giving first-timers a vivid taste of Beijing’s night food culture. Together, they are among the most popular things to do in Beijing at night.
Should I make reservations for evening attractions?
Yes, booking ahead is smart. Popular shows like the Red Theatre Kung Fu performance and Liyuan Theatre Peking Opera often sell out. The Simatai Great Wall night tour also requires reservations due to limited tickets. Booking through Trip.com is easy and lets you select seats. Free sites such as Jingshan Park don’t need reservations, but for shows and tours, securing tickets early saves trouble.
What if I do not speak Chinese?
Main venues are prepared for international guests. Kung Fu shows and operas include English subtitles. Areas like Sanlitun and Wangfujing often have English or picture menus. Translation apps help in smaller eateries. Locals are used to foreigners, so basic English and gestures usually work.
When is the last subway?
Most lines close around 10:30–11:00 p.m., though some central stations run a bit later. Check signs or use apps like MetroMan or BD Map. After closing, taxis and DiDi are the main options. Fares are reasonable compared to many capitals, so plan a taxi budget.
What are the best photo locations at night?
Beijing has excellent night photo spots that show different sides of the city. Jingshan Park gives sweeping views of the Forbidden City lit up at night. The Olympic Park offers a modern angle with the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube glowing in color. Sanlitun adds neon signs, stylish shops, and crowds for lively scenes. These places highlight the city’s range from imperial to modern, making them must-visit things to do in Beijing at night.
Can I pay with Alipay or WeChat Pay at the night markets?
Most night markets and food stalls accept mobile payments, and foreign travelers can link credit cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay. This makes buying snacks and meals quick and simple. Still, carry some cash for small vendors or if mobile systems fail. Combining both payment methods ensures a smooth experience.
Are taxis easy to come by in the early hours?
In areas like Sanlitun or Wangfujing, taxis run late into the night. On weekends, wait times may be longer, but Didi is convenient because it confirms fares and avoids language issues. This makes returning to your hotel safe and straightforward.
What other food options exist beyond night markets?
Besides snack streets, Beijing has many 24-hour eateries. Dumpling shops, noodle spots, and hotpot chains like Haidilao stay open past 4 a.m., serving meals long after midnight. They are reliable choices for those needing a hot meal after exploring. For night owls, visiting a 24-hour hotpot chain is one of the most rewarding things to do in Beijing at night.
