China

China has one of Asia's most dynamic and fastest-growing craft beer scenes. What started as a handful of expat-friendly import bars in Beijing and Shanghai has evolved into a thriving ecosystem of homegrown microbreweries, specialist taprooms and independent craft beer bars stretching across dozens of cities. Shanghai leads the charge — the French Concession and Jing'an neighbourhoods are packed with craft beer venues ranging from neighbourhood taprooms to serious beer geek destinations. Beijing's hutong courtyards and Sanlitun strip offer their own distinct drinking culture, with brewpubs that blend traditional architecture with contemporary brewing. Beyond the two big cities, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Hangzhou and Chongqing all have growing craft beer communities worth exploring.

Chinese craft breweries like Master Gao, Panda Brew, Arrow Factory and Slow Boat have earned international recognition, while a wave of newer producers experiment with local ingredients including baijiu barrels, Sichuan peppercorns and regional teas. Use this directory to find the best craft beer bars, taprooms and bottle shops across China — whether you're after a cold IPA in Shanghai or a hutong brewpub in Beijing.