Kumming, as the economic and cultural center of Yunnan Province, also takes the lead in all manner of entertainment. Three districts of Kunming are widely recognized as great places to have a good time in Kunming, each of them represents a unique style and atmosphere, and each have their own different crowds.
The rich cultural heritage and the "forever spring" climate attract more and more travelers to visit and even to live in Kunming. Most of the foreign and Western population, majorly comprised of students learning Chinese in Kunming, live near Yunnan University and the Green Lake park in the north of the city. Along the picturesque shores of the Green Lake (Cuihu) and around the university, numerous Western bars and cafes have sprung up and the area offers not only authentic western food and drinks, but also a Western atmosphere and music. Face to Face, the the Blue Bird, are all highlights of the area. There are also some nice bars in town, both the newcomer Black Knight Club and the long time favorite, the Camel Bar offer great live music.
The Xinyin residential area on the east of the city has a few blocks clustered with all different styles of "tea houses",or "Chinese bars" near the Guanfang Hotel. Although frequented by the local people for a relaxing chat or a round of Chinese chess? over a? fragrant cup of Yunnan tea, the Xinyin area still attracts Western tourists with its special atmosphere that combines traditional tea drinking with a comfortable, modern setting.
If the Xinyin District is too traditional or "relaxing" for you, then the Kundu bar area may be more your speed with its rocking fun house for the local youth of Kunming. Getting its name from the nearby Kundu Department Store, the area is located near the bustling Dongfeng Xi Lu.? As soon as night falls, outdoor rock n' roll bars,karaoke bars, flashy discos, and video arcades are all crowded with young Kunmingers out soaking up Kunming's night culture and lattest bar fads.Currently the hottest spot in the Kundu area is Fengqing Island, an outdoor rock n' roll bar and the Cool Bar, a Chinese bar with a huge stage and Chinese pop performances.
