Location & How to Get There
Dingji 168 Bar is tucked in a lively neighborhood of Bao’an District, Shenzhen. It’s inside the trendy Lemon District (a creative hub near Hongwan Market), right next to Lian Sheng Department Store. To find it, look for the bright neon signs on the second floor.
By Metro: Hop on Metro Line 1 and get off at Gushu Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk—just follow the buzz of nightlife and colorful street food stalls.
By Taxi: Tell the driver to go to Xianggu Community, Gushu, and mention Hongwan Market. The bar is above a popular supermarket, so it’s easy to spot.
Biking: If you’re exploring nearby areas like Nanshan or Shekou, biking here is fun. The streets around Dingji 168 Bar are filled with cool graffiti walls and snack vendors.
City Vibes & Night Scene
Shenzhen isn’t known for mountains or beaches, but Dingji 168 Bar makes up for it with energy. The area feels like a mix of old-school Chinese markets and modern hipster hangouts. At night, the streets light up with neon signs, street performers, and the smell of grilled snacks. You won’t see skyscrapers here—instead, there are low-rise buildings covered in quirky art.
The bar itself has an industrial-chic vibe: exposed brick walls, metal stools, and hanging plants. It’s tiny but cozy, perfect for chatting with friends or meeting locals. The best part? The huge windows facing the street let you watch the hustle and bustle while sipping a drink.
What Makes It Special?
Dingji 168 Bar isn’t just a bar—it’s a creative hotspot. The owners host live music nights, DIY cocktail workshops, and even mini art exhibitions by local artists. Check their Instagram for event updates!
The drinks menu is a mix of classics and wild experiments. Try the “Shenzhen Sour” (a twist on whiskey sour with dragon fruit) or the “Graffiti Gimlet” (gin, basil, and edible glitter). If you’re hungry, they serve fusion snacks like truffle-flavored popcorn and spicy Sichuan-style edamame.
Extra Tips for Your Visit
- Open Hours: The bar gets hopping after 9 PM and stays open till late (around 2 AM most nights).
- Crowd: Expect a mix of young locals, expats, and tourists. It’s laid-back but can get packed on weekends.
- Photo Ops: The graffiti-covered walls outside and the neon-lit bar make great backdrops for Instagram shots. Bonus: The staff loves when guests take pictures—they might even pose!
- Neighborhood Explore: Before or after your visit, wander around Hongwan Market for cheap eats (try the skewers!) or browse quirky shops in Lemon District.
My Night at Dingji 168 Bar
On a Friday night, Dingji 168 Bar felt like a secret party. I started with a tropical cocktail called “Tropical 168” (rum, coconut, and a sparkler) while listening to a live jazz band. The crowd was friendly—a few regulars chatted with us about Shenzhen’s nightlife tips. By midnight, the DJ switched to electronic beats, and the dance floor filled up. Even at 1 AM, the energy stayed high.
What stuck with me? The little details: the bartender’s smile, the hand-painted menus, and the way the music matched the city’s rhythm—fast-paced but never overwhelming.
Whether you’re a cocktail lover, a night owl, or someone who digs hidden gems, Dingji 168 Bar is worth a stop. It’s not a famous landmark, but that’s exactly why it feels real. Pro tip: Come on a weeknight to avoid the crush—and grab a seat by the window!
