The capital of China with a large gay community and discreet gay lifestyle. Explore the vibrance of the Pearl River city and its thriving gay nightlife. Great-value Beijing hotels for gay travelers. Top Hong Kong Hotels for gay travelers.
In our gay guide to Beijing, we've put together the best gay bars and clubs, gay-friendly hotels, travel highlights, and more. Don't giggle, it's a legit T-shirt every good gay tourist heading to the Chinese capital needs to get. Preferably in size XXS for added larks…. Beijing is impressive.
At first glance, China might not seem like an obvious gay destination. Due to a slowing economy and the impact of COVID, eastern cities like Shanghai and Beijing have become less attractive for queer communities, with many of the old gay bars closing down. Homosexuality is not illegal, and it is generally safe to be openly gay or trans in everyday life, especially in urban areas. Same-sex couples cannot marry, and there are no legal protections against discrimination in the workplace or civil society.
Shanghai shines as a beacon of gay nightlife in mainland China, offering a dynamic mix of exclusive gay bars and welcoming mixed venues. This perfect blend makes it effortless to switch between gay and straight nightlife, ideal for diverse groups of friends. Start your evening at Rice Bar , a Japanese-themed lounge perfect for a relaxed vibe. Want more?