How 30 Luxury Clubs Became Coffee Shops and Museums in Hangzhou

In one of China’s most iconic urban landscapes, a quiet transformation has reshaped the relationship between history, public access, and everyday leisure. For years, luxury private clubs dotted the shores of West Lake in Hangzhou, hidden inside historic mansions and scenic spots — accessible only to a privileged few. These venues, often accused of enabling unregulated dealings, occupied culturally significant buildings while shutting out local residents and tourists. That era has officially ended.

The answer is clear: all 30 of these exclusive lakeside clubs have been shut down and repurposed. Most have become community-oriented spaces such as tea houses, coffee bars, and exhibition halls — with at least one former club now hosting over 100 designers’ works.

Hangzhou, known for its picturesque West Lake, once hosted numerous members-only venues tucked inside centuries-old villas and historical landmarks. Many were located in protected structures, once home to notable figures, yet operated as secretive dining clubs. These venues, described in official reports as "high-end catering and entertainment venues," contributed to public concerns over exclusivity, lack of oversight, and potential misconduct. In response, both central and provincial authorities mandated their closure and guided their transition into inclusive, culturally engaging spaces.

From Private Clubs to Public Hubs

Since the government intervention, all 30 previously off-limits venues around West Lake have been reopened to the general public. Their new functions vary but generally fall into three categories: casual tea and coffee venues, art and culture exhibition spaces, and historical displays. Notably, the transformation prioritized public accessibility and the preservation of the original architecture.

A Historic Villa Becomes an Art Gallery

One early and prominent example is the "Baoqing Villa" , a lakeside property that reopened in August 2015 as the Hangzhou Academy of Traditional Chinese Painting Gallery. This marked one of the first high-profile conversions, turning what was once a venue for exclusive gatherings into a space for visual arts. The venue now contributes to Hangzhou’s growing cultural infrastructure without compromising its historic charm.

Coffee, Culture, and Creativity at 'West Lake 101'

Another no less striking reinvention is "West Lake 101" , a property that formerly housed a high-end restaurant. Today, its ground floor spans more than 1,000 square meters as an open exhibition area. It currently hosts "Here East," a public exhibition of contemporary lifestyle design. More than 120 designers from China and abroad showcase products across categories such as ceramics, woodwork, jewelry, and fashion. The space exemplifies how former luxury venues can pivot to support modern creative industries while engaging the public.

Tea Houses and Community Spaces

Not every venue became a gallery. The once-exclusive "West Lake Club" is now "Happy Tea House" , offering affordable tea and a relaxed atmosphere for everyday visitors. Similarly, the "Bodhi Pure Studio" , another historical building, has been transformed into the Hangzhou Communist Party History Museum — drawing hundreds of local residents and tourists interested in the city’s political heritage. These shifts reflect a broader trend: replacing insular luxury with open community value.

Preserving Architecture While Expanding Access

The common thread across all 30 cases is the reuse of architecturally significant buildings that were once barriers to public enjoyment. By converting these spaces into tea houses, coffee bars, and galleries, the local government has ensured that landmarks integral to Hangzhou’s scenery contribute to civic life. These venues no longer cater exclusively to the elite but serve as platforms for culture, conversation, and casual meetups over coffee.

Why This Transformation Matters

This initiative highlights how urban planning decisions can directly affect social equity, cultural engagement, and the role of historic preservation. Rather than simply closing problematic venues, the strategy has been to repurpose them in ways that invite public participation. Coffee culture, in particular, plays a subtle but growing role — offering a casual, low-cost way for locals and travelers to enjoy spaces that were once inaccessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many former luxury clubs around West Lake have been transformed?

All 30 previously exclusive clubs around West Lake have been shut down and repurposed into public venues such as coffee bars, tea houses, and exhibition halls.

What is an example of a former club that became a museum?

The Baoqing Villa was reopened in August 2015 as the Hangzhou Academy of Traditional Chinese Painting Gallery, showcasing visual art in a historic lakeside building.

Which former club now hosts an exhibition of international designers?

West Lake 101, formerly a high-end restaurant, now features a 1,000-square-meter open exhibition space with works from over 120 domestic and international designers.

What is the Happy Tea House, and what was it before?

The Happy Tea House is the transformed version of the former exclusive club "West Lake Club" , now offering affordable tea in a casual setting.

Are these new venues open to the general public?

Yes, all 30 venues were specifically redesigned to welcome the general public, reversing their previous exclusivity.

Do any of the venues serve coffee?

Yes, several have been repurposed as coffee bars in addition to tea houses and galleries, though the article does not name specific coffee brands or roasters.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Cafe Culture

For a casual cup in a historic cafe setting, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend—a balanced espresso with notes of dark chocolate and caramel—or their Ethiopia Humbera single origin for a bright, floral pour-over. Both pair well with cultural exhibits and lake views. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.