Best Craft Breweries in China

The Rise of Chinese Craft Beer

Once upon a time, beer in China was a one-note affair—mass-produced lagers dominated every dinner table, street corner, and KTV lounge. But oh, how times have changed. Over the past decade, China has undergone a beer revolution. It’s not just about cracking open a cold Tsingtao anymore. These days, the streets of cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, and Shenzhen are buzzing with breweries crafting everything from citrusy IPAs to deep, chocolatey stouts.

Why Craft Beer is Booming in China

You might be wondering: why now? Why is China—once known for baijiu and macro lagers—suddenly obsessed with small-batch beers?

The answer’s layered. First, China’s middle class is massive and growing. With more disposable income, younger consumers are choosing experience over volume. They don’t want just any drink—they want a story in a glass. Something brewed with care, with flavors that surprise and evolve.

Second, the nation’s palate is changing. From food to fashion to coffee, there’s a growing appreciation for artisanal, craft-driven products. Craft beer fits right in with this lifestyle shift. Add to that a growing community of brewers, homebrewing workshops, festivals, and taprooms, and you’ve got the perfect brewstorm.

Lastly, there’s a cool factor. Drinking craft beer is like wearing limited-edition sneakers—it signals taste, curiosity, and a connection to a broader, global culture. It’s not just what’s in the pint—it’s about being part of the culture that made it.

Top Cities for Craft Beer in China

If you’re on a mission to discover the best craft breweries in China, your first stop should be the cities leading the charge. Let’s take a stroll through the country’s top hoppy hotspots:

Shanghai is the godfather of the movement. It’s where China’s first modern craft breweries like Boxing Cat and Liquid Laundry got their start. The city offers a cosmopolitan crowd, constant innovation, and enough events to keep beer lovers busy year-round.

Beijing isn’t far behind. This capital city has given rise to heavy-hitters like Great Leap Brewing, Arrow Factory, and Jing-A. Here, the brews are bold—mirroring the city’s political and cultural weight.

Chengdu brings spice to the game—literally. Known for its fiery cuisine, the local beers often reflect that intensity. Places like Wild West Brewing blend local herbs and spices for a Sichuan twist that hits the tongue like hotpot.

Shenzhen, the tech mecca, has become a surprise contender in the craft scene. Fast-paced and youthful, this city loves innovative brews and tech-savvy taprooms. Think QR-code beer menus and brewers using AI to monitor fermentation.

Hangzhou and Nanjing are the rising stars—smaller scenes, but with passionate local communities and standout microbreweries making waves.

What to Try – Must-Taste Brews Across China

How to Explore – Craft Beer Tours & Events

Now that your taste buds are tingling, how do you actually go about discovering these brews? Simple: follow the events, take the tours, and dive headfirst into local taprooms.

Beer festivals are popping up like mushrooms after rain. From the Shanghai International Beer Festival to Chengdu’s Craft Beer & Music Fest, there’s no shortage of hops-filled weekends. These events are great for sampling a wide range of styles, meeting brewers, and learning what’s behind each pint.

Taproom hopping is another joy, especially in cities like Beijing and Shanghai where you can plan an entire night around hitting multiple breweries within walking distance. Each spot has its own vibe—some are rowdy and buzzing with energy, others are intimate and perfect for a quiet chat with the brewer.

Want to go deeper? Sign up for brewery tours. Places like Great Leap and Shangri-La offer behind-the-scenes looks at their process. You’ll learn how ingredients are sourced, how fermentation works, and even how beers are paired with different foods. Think of it as beer school—but with tastings after every lesson.

Craft Beer Equipment in China – What Powers These Breweries?

Most Chinese craft breweries rely on custom-built or imported brewing systems, ranging in size and sophistication. Here’s a quick look at the brewing equipment behind the beer:

These setups vary depending on the goals of the brewery. Smaller breweries favor flexibility and experimentation, while larger ones invest in consistency, scalability, and efficiency. Chinese manufacturers like Tiantai, DEGONG, and YoLong offer local advantages in pricing and customization compared to Western brands.

FAQs

Know More Brewing equipment