"You Have to Wait in Line for Dozens of Minutes"... Mugshots and Bars Behind Bars: The Hottest Spot in China

Prison-Themed Bars Gain Popularity Across China
Take a Mugshot and Get "Locked Up" Behind Bars
Serving Cocktails and a Variety of Drinks

Recently in China, "prison bars" that appear to have recreated the interior of an actual prison have become popular, especially among young people, sparking mixed reactions among netizens regarding the concept. On the 26th, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that prison-themed bars have sprung up across China, and as they have become a hot topic on social networking services (SNS), more young people are seeking to experience prison life indirectly.

Recently in China, a "prison bar" that seems to have recreated the interior of an actual prison has become popular mainly among young people, sparking mixed reactions among netizens regarding the concept. SCMP

At these prison-themed bars, customers are asked to confess to a crime and have their mugshot taken before moving to a cell. Prison uniforms and even handcuffs are available for use. Prison bars typically charge 50 yuan (about 10,000 won) for drinks such as cocktails, sodas, and coffee. To rent the orange prison uniform, which is the standard inmate attire, an additional 10 yuan (about 2,000 won) must be paid. Other cell props, including handcuffs, are also available for a fee.

Upon entering the bar, customers are instructed to sign a confession and receive a mock criminal record that lists the crime they have "committed." Next, they have their mugshot taken, and are then escorted directly to a cell. The bar staff, dressed as prison guards, greet the guests, ask what crime they have committed, and remind them of rules such as not breaking the tables.

As this concept has gone viral on SNS, prison bars are spreading across China. One netizen who visited a prison bar commented, "You can easily take attractive photos there. The lighting is perfect and the background is very interesting." Another netizen said, "I went to a bar in Hangzhou at 10 p.m. on a weekday and had to wait 20 minutes to get in. It's extremely popular." On the other hand, some netizens expressed confusion, saying, "The world has gone crazy. I can't understand the idea of a prison bar." Regarding the popularity of prison bars, one expert pointed out, "A prison is a place to punish, educate, and reform criminals. Making a joke out of prisons could diminish respect for the law, and it may be especially disrespectful to victims and their families."