local clubs

[cm1]

I'd like to join some local (Chinese) groups/clubs/classes in my area (Zhongguancun) for example dancing, music, games, cooking, walking etc. with a view to meeting more Chinese people, improving my Chinese as well as pursuing outside interests. However, I don't know how to find out what's available and where. Back in the UK I'd go to the local library to find out but don't think there's an equivalent here. I know about the various groups and classes which are aimed at foreigners/expats and advertised in the beijinger and the like but am not too interested in those. I have a reasonable level of spoken Chinese so communication isn't a problem but do not have a good enough reading level to browse Chinese websites. Any suggestions much appreciated.

[lanzhoumian]

I joined a badminton club close to Dongzhimen, they play every Saturday, anyone can come, it costs 30rmb for two hours and you can play against whoever you want. For me that means usually older women or children, as my skills are rather limited. Having said that, I got whipped by that 15 year old buy the other day too...

A bit far from zhongguancun I guess, but I am sure there are places like this around there too. My girlfriend helped me to find that one, so I am not sure how exactely she did that, but apparently there are webpages with 羽毛球俱乐部s.

[roddy]

Always worth searching the groups (小组) section of Douban.com