Zhangjiajie Entertainment and Nightlife

Although people of the Han Nationality are the principal part in Zhangjiajie (张家界), the populations of ethnic minority groups like the Tujia (土家族) and Miao (苗族) are sizeable. The nightlife is not as modern as that in the big cities, but it definitely has its own flavor.

Tourism is a major industry in Zhangjiajie, and people visit the city particularly to experience the folk singing and dancing performances at night in Wulingyuan Scenic Area (武陵源风景区) or at the Charming Xiangxi Theatre (魅力湘西剧场). In Zhangjiajie, there are two major folk performance shows: one is “Charming Xiangxi” (魅力湘西), and the other is “Dream Zhangjiajie” (梦幻张家界). The actors in the “Charming Xiangxi” performance are all from local Tujia and Miao families, and their fair-sounding singing and multicolored folk attire are the highlights of the show. Performances like Xiangxi Magic (湘西魔术) and Xiangxi Ganshi (湘西赶尸) add to the mysterious and thrilling atmosphere. The performance lasts for three hours and offers a deep insight into the soul of Zhangjiajie’s culture.

Performances in Zhangjiajie

“Charming Xiangxi” Show (《魅力湘西》)

At night, the streets of Zhangjiajie are filled with vendors selling barbecue and local snacks. One such snack, Glutinous Rice Balls in Rice Wine Soup (米酒汤圆), is made of small glutinous rice balls, Chinese dates, and sweet rice wine. This snack is not only very nutritious but also tasty. The cost is typically CNY1. Other local snacks like Bean Curd (豆腐干), Grilled Dried Tofu (烤干豆腐), Grilled Beef Skewers (烤牛肉串), and Grilled Mutton Skewers (烤羊肉串) are found in the night market and are very inexpensive. Tujia Spicy Radish (土家辣萝卜) and pickled vegetables should also be included in your tasting menu.

Drinks (饮品)

The Tujia (土家族) minority group has a long history of wine making. Their methods are quite delicate, and they use many different ingredients to make a wide variety of wines, including Rice Wine (米酒), Corn Wine (玉米酒), Kaoliang Spirits (高粱酒), Gegen Wine (葛根酒), and Snake Wine (蛇酒). Once you’ve tasted their wines, you will never forget the unique flavor.

Zhangjiajie at Night 

Bars (酒吧)

• Half Past Eight Making-Friends Bar (八点半交友酒吧)
  
  Address: No.1 Beizheng Street, Yongding District (永定区北正街1号)

• Shui Mo Fang Tea Bar (水墨坊茶吧)
  
  Address: No.3 Renmin Road (人民路3号)

Teahouses (茶馆)

• Dushi Long (City Dragon) Teahouse (都市龙茶馆)
  
  Address: No.8 Renmin Road (人民路8号)

• Hong Taiyang (Red Sun) Teahouse (红太阳茶馆)
  
  Address: No.27 Beizheng Street (北正街27号)

Nightlife Atmosphere

The bustling pedestrian streets, the vibrant Nanmengkou Food Street (南门口美食街), and the brilliantly lit 72 Wonder Towers (七十二奇楼) create a lively atmosphere during the Spring Festival. The city is filled with lights, people, and a festive energy that permeates not only the shopping malls but also the side streets and food stalls.

As night falls, Nanmengkou Food Street (南门口美食街) comes alive with the smells of local delicacies like Tujia Sanxia Guo (土家三下锅), Du Mi (肚米), and Da Gu Pi (打鼓皮), attracting food lovers to indulge. Local resident Mr. Liu says, “The night market is getting better and better every year. The streets are crowded, and it’s so lively.”

The business boom brings joy to the vendors, with one excited Sanxia Guo (三下锅) shop owner mentioning that their business has been exceptionally busy since the start of the Lunar New Year, and customers are praising the taste.

The 72 Wonder Towers (七十二奇楼) present a stunning view, especially at night. The colorful buildings illuminated by lights create a charming visual scene. Visitors wander through, immersed in Zhangjiajie’s enchanting nightscape, while over 30 exciting programs including Tujia culture, intangible heritage, and the style of the Republic of China are performed in the towers. The Spring Festival special activities draw crowds, with a grand bonfire party adding to the excitement. Tourist Yang from Guangxi says, “I’ve seen so many videos of the 72 Wonder Towers (七十二奇楼), and finally, I’m here. The night views are breathtaking, and the performances keep coming. It’s like a celebration of the New Year, just like when I was a kid.”

Wulingyuan Night Market 

The Wulingyuan Night Market (武陵源夜市) is a hidden treasure where fresh fruits, vegetables, and local agricultural products fill the air with delicious scents. The market is also known for its vibrant handcrafts and souvenirs. You can bargain with the vendors and experience authentic rural life. Don’t miss the chance to taste various local Xiangxi Snacks (湘西小吃) while enjoying the nighttime ambiance.

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Night Market

The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Night Market (张家界大峡谷夜市) is another must-see spot for nighttime tourists. This market mainly sells tourist souvenirs and snacks, with booths popping up as night falls. Visitors can select postcards, handcrafts, and other keepsakes while enjoying delicious street food like Grilled Fish (烤鱼), Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐), and BBQ (烧烤), making for unforgettable memories.

Xingkong Food Night Market at Jiuyuan Shijie

In the Xingkong Food Night Market at Jiuyuan Shijie (九院十街星空美食夜市), you can indulge in both food and stargazing. This market not only offers various food stalls but also provides entertainment facilities like shooting and basketball games, making it ideal for families and friends. Visitors can also participate in a live photography challenge, capturing beautiful moments of the night.

Cultural Experience at Renmin Square 

The Renmin Square Night Market (人民广场夜市) offers a unique cultural experience, where folk artists perform traditional arts like face-changing and acrobatics. These performances not only showcase the charm of Chinese traditional culture but also add a distinctive flavor to Zhangjiajie’s nighttime atmosphere.

Other Night Markets 

Zhangjiajie also has other specialty night markets, like the Xibu Street (溪布街) and Dongmen Bridge (东门桥) night markets, where you can find a range of local snacks, handmade crafts, and traditional performances. These markets offer a true taste of the city’s cultural vibe.

Zhangjiajie Nightlife Recommendations 

For those who want to dive deeper into Zhangjiajie’s nightlife, consider contacting Wanteng Travel Agency (张家界万腾旅行社) at Zhongshang Plaza (中商广场). With their rich travel resources and professional guides, they can customize a surprise-filled night tour that will let you experience the city’s nighttime charm at its fullest.

Zhangjiajie’s night scene is a feast for the eyes and taste buds and an unforgettable journey for the soul. Let’s make memories in this charming city!