When China Central Television's News Probe programme led an investigation into the relationship between mainland government organs and hostess nightclubs, many viewers were amused but few were shocked.
That is because the investigation revealed nothing more than a practice that is rather common throughout the mainland. In many towns, the 'gentertainment' industry, is ... well, the only industry in town.
In Jiaotong city, Yunnan province, taxi drivers are a wealth of information. They proudly announce to visitors that the city's best, booming nightclub is located conveniently in a building which just happens to house offices of the local branch of the state taxation department.
The taxi drivers enthusiastically recommend the hostess club's services due to another coincidence: it never falls into the dragnet of police inspectors.
Of course, the nightclub operates according to market principles. A karaoke room can be rented for 188 yuan, which includes four bottles of beer and snacks. Hostesses charge 30 yuan per hour for light conversation only, but offer 'fast food' for 300 yuan and 'overnight' charges at 500 yuan.
Guest rooms are located in the facility, which is technically a three-star hotel as well. This makes the entire operation very convenient for everybody.
