Jump into almost any Beijing taxi and tell the driver to head to Sanlitun and end up in the city's most popular bar district. For over a decade and running, the area has become a home base for watering holes. The street block known as "Sanlitun Bar Street" merely proves its reputation.

While the location and ownership of the bars have shifted and changed throughout the years, the bottom line of most Sanlitun establishments has pretty much remained the same: cheap drinks offered in intimate spaces.

Kai Bar and Nanjie are two bars in the area that have practically perfected this motto. The management of these prime examples have taken things a step further in Sanlitun when they opened the doors of Tun.

Set on the east side of Sanlitun South Street, at the end of a lone alley, Tun premiered last month as Beijing's first no-frills nightclub. The drink prices at Tun remain in line with its sister bars (10 yuan shots, 20 yuan cocktails). Yet its lofty and spacious interior offer an upgraded atmosphere. The high ceilings, rustic wood beams and flooring, along with an abundance of natural green foliage creates a feeling of summer inside.

An antiquated brick-style DJ booth modeled after the Great Wall situated next to a wall-size digital projection is the focal point of the club. Comfy sofas and two full-service bars assure plenty of space for rest and relaxation, as well. The down to earth style of the staff has carried over from Nanjie and Kai, with friendly bartenders prepared to serve regular patrons.

There's no doubt that Tun was designed to encompass the nightlife needs of its party-going guests. Previously managed and operated by the nightlife heralds responsible for the Yen circuit parties, the space was initially created to bring together a series of different club and art events.

The excited new management of Tun has promised to continue developing the original concept of the club, offering a new Sanlitun experience for a new Beijing.

Tun (屯), Open daily, 6 pm to late, San Li Tun South Street, 4 Gongti Bei Lu, 6585-5866

(China Daily July 19, 2008)