Nightlife in Nanjing is not quite as colorful as that of major Chinese cities like Beijing and Shanghai, but it does have its own unique flavor. Kunqu, the regional opera, is performed nightly here. Kunqu Opera is one of the oldest extant forms of Chinese opera, with its origins dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). Among the earliest genres of drama, the traditional performing art was named for its birthplace, Kunshan, near the city of Suzhou in Jiangsu Province. Now in decline because of a lack of interest among young people, the opera lives on in Nanjing, and visitors should not miss the opportunity of seeing a performance at the Lanyuan Theater.

With leisure centers and street markets, the area around Fuzi Miao nightly fills with people of all ages. Many young residents seek out bargains and tasty snacks at the outdoor stalls before going on to a KTV bar or disco.

Hunan Lu around the ancient city wall is regarded as Nanjing's second nightspot. Neon lights beam down upon a litter or bars, restaurants and KTV joints, and this area is famed for the diverse range of cuisines. Shiziqiao Street is regarded as having the area's best eateries.

Expat bars are found on Shanghai Lu, near the Nanjing University. Jack's is small in size but hugely popular. Visit this place for a refreshing beer and a chat with some of the city's foreign residents.

A short distance from the university is a trio of popular late night spots -Scarlet Bar, Tequila Bar and Island Bar. Scarlet bar draws the late-night expat crowd, while at Tequila Bar, wannabe rappers take the stage to try out their talent for rhyme. Known locally as Island Bob, The Island Bar belts out club tunes till dawn.