How popular is padel in China?TrustPadel▾
Padel is still very new in China. As of today, China has 9 venues and 24 courts, which puts it far behind countries like Spain or Argentina. However, grassroots interest is rising, especially among urban professionals who enjoy tennis and squash. Social media platforms like Xiaohongshu and WeChat have helped create a small but active padel community.
Where should I start if I want to play padel in China?TrustPadel▾
To start playing padel in China, first check whether there is a venue in your city. With only 9 venues and 24 courts nationwide, you may need to travel or join a waiting list. Contact the nearest club directly – many offer taster sessions and beginner lessons. If no venue exists close by, consider reaching out to local tennis or squash clubs; some are planning to add padel courts.
Which cities are the biggest padel hubs in China?TrustPadel▾
Because China has just 9 padel venues, there is no single dominant hub. Most current courts are in tier-one cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, where expats and international sports culture are strongest. Guangzhou and Chengdu are also showing early interest. As more venues open, these cities are likely to lead the country's padel development.
Is there a governing body for padel in China?TrustPadel▾
No official padel governing body has been recognised in China yet. None of the existing clubs are affiliated with the International Padel Federation (FIP) or the Asian Padel Federation (APF). That means there are no national rankings or sanctioned tournaments. However, informal leagues and events are being organised by individual clubs and the small padel community.
How does the cost of padel in China compare with neighbouring countries?TrustPadel▾
Padel court hire in China is generally more affordable than in Japan, Singapore, or South Korea. The limited number of venues (9) means prices can vary widely, but you can typically expect to pay between £20 and £40 per hour in major cities. Coaching sessions cost extra. For comparison, similar courts in Tokyo or Singapore often cost double that amount.
Are most padel courts in China indoor or outdoor?TrustPadel▾
Because of China's varied climate, from freezing winters in the north to hot summers in the south, most padel venues are indoor or have retractable roofs. Of the 24 courts in China, the majority are indoor to guarantee year-round play. Some newer outdoor padels have been built, but they are still a minority.